After finishing up our visit to the Cold War Museum in Vine Hill, TJ and I decided to drive up the road to check out the battlefield at Cedar Mountain. I had not been there before, but knew it was a small museum welcome center with limited accessible grounds. As such, we figured we had the time.
We took the drive and arrived at the welcome center and museum. It is a quant set up, that has a few artifacts and items in one of two display rooms. One of the most interesting things was they had a wall showing the full OOB for each army, with commanders and regiments listed. As a wargamer, this is something I would see more of!
We checked out the museum, talked with the staff and then did part of the walking trail, which covers most of the main battle lines. After looking at the markers and topography, we got into the car and drive to see some of the areas that were not in the public area.
One of the most interesting things to me on battlefield visits is the topography. Most scenarios and battlefield maps just do not give you a clear view of site lines and how constrained they actually were. It is when you see this, you really understand the importance of high ground!
It was a pleasant trip and only took a few hours. It was worth trip and is a recommendation stop, if you have a little time to kill, would like to stretch your legs and have an interest in the US Civil War. Then again, it works if you only are interested in one of those activities!
- Manteuffel