Experience hands-on history with a camp of Civil War living historians at Chatham Manor on November 19. This living history program marks the 160th anniversary of the United States Army of the Potomac’s arrival outside Fredericksburg in November 1862.
On November 15th, 1862, the vanguard of the United States Army of the Potomac arrived in Falmouth to secure the north bank of the Rappahannock River. Three days later, General Ambrose Burnside and the majority of his forces caught up with them. In just a few weeks these forces would
be swept into the Battle of Fredericksburg.
Visit Chatham Manor on November 19th from 10am-4pm to meet some of these soldiers as they prepare for the coming battle. What were soldiers doing in camp? What did they eat? What was going through their minds as they hoped to take the war to Richmond?
Living historians will set up on the river side of Chatham Manor to depict a typical army camp. Engage with soldiers and civilians who will cook period food and rations, conduct military drill, chop firewood, and engage in other activities of 19th century life.
Photo courtesy Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park
