April 9 - 10, 2016

In the spring of 1862, General McClellan took his 120,000 man Army of the Potomac to the Virginia Peninsula intent on reaching Richmond. Blocking his path was General Magruder’s small Army of the Peninsula, later reinforced by General Johnston’s army. As McClellan was stopped by Magruder’s army outside of Yorktown, he began laying siege to the Confederate fortifications. These fortifications stretched around Yorktown and then across the Peninsula along the banks of the Warwick River. In between Yorktown and the head of the Warwick River stretched a line of Confederate fortifications including two Confederate forts. Union troops began fortifying in front of the Confederates preparing to lay siege to Yorktown. Life in the lines for both sides was miserable with rain falling during much of the month of April and constant shots from sharpshooters keeping men in the muddy, rain-filled trenches.

On Saturday and Sunday, April 9 - 10, reenactors will portray Union and Confederate soldiers in the fortifications between Yorktown and the head of the Warwick River. Witness the life of a soldier as they build fortifications and fend off attacks made throughout the day. Guided tours will leave periodically from the historic house and will lead to various points where presenters will discuss life for civilians and soldiers during the Peninsula Campaign. In addition, see talks, demonstrations, battles and camp life. Complete schedule of events listed below. Admission: $9 per person/ Under 7 free. Hours: 10-5 Saturday/ 10-4 Sunday.