The Civil War was a pivotal time in US history. The war resulted in the definitive end of slavery, established a more centralized structure through the federal government, and led to a significant transition in warfare. We invite you to join us in studying this highly impactful period from multiple perspectives including those of slaves, women, and soldiers, as well as invite you to learn about the military movements in our area.
Civil War Trails
Civil War Trails allow us not to commemorate or memorialize, but rather interpret the events, people, and places of the Civil War. The system of interpretive signage marks sites of large-scale events as well as lesser known but important locations. The sites in Louisa County include:
- Stop #1: Louisa County Courthouse – Radiers Intercepted, Located – 119 West Main Street Louisa, VA 23093
- Stop #2: First Contact – A Considerable Fight, Location – 832 St. Rt. 669 (Ellisville Drive)
- Stop #3: Clayton’s Store – Sheridan’s Camp, Location – 4501 St. rt. 669 (Ellisville Drive)
- Stop #4: Bibb’s Crossroad – First Shots, Location – 3093 Oakland Road Louisa, VA 23093
- Stop #5: Netherland Tavern – Hampton’s Head Quarters, Located – 321 Oakland Road Louisa, VA 23093
- Stop #6: Custer Rescued – An All Out Assault AND Custer’s First Last Stand – A Living Triangle, Location – 17561 Louisa Road Louisa, VA 23093
- Stop #7: Ogg Farm – Repulsed with Heavy Losses, Location – 1393 South Spotswood Trail Louisa, VA 23093
- Stop #8: Decisive Confederate Victory AND Oakland Cemetery, Location – Oakland Cemetery on West Street Louisa, VA 23093
Download the Visit Louisa app for an on-the-go audio companion to these stops, created by the Louisa County Historical Society and the Trevilians Battlefield Foundation.
Henry Box Brown
Henry “Box” Brown was born into slavery in Louisa County on a plantation called Hermitage. Brown mailed himself to Philadelphia (and freedom) in a small 3 feet x 2.67 feet by 2 feet box. Visit the historical marker at 37° 56.846′ N, 77° 53.596′ commemorating his bravery and reflect on his courage.
The Sargeant Museum of Louisa County History
The Civil War exhibit at the Sargeant Museum in the Town of Louisa (14 Fredericksburg Avenue, Louisa, VA 23093) is one of six permanent displays. Museum staff is available for a guided tour and to answer visitor questions.
Trevilians Battlefield Trails
Located at 1056 Oakland Rd, Louisa, VA 23093, the Trevilians Battlefield Trails consist of roughly 12 miles of trails for hiking or horseback riding (horse/trail rides not provided). Free to the public and open from Memorial Day to Labor Day (check the Facebook page for additional dates), visitors can explore the site where the largest all-cavalry battle of the Civil War took place.
Trevilian Station Battlefield Foundation Events
The Trevilian Station Battlefield Foundation often hold historical-themed events, like a Night at the Tavern and reenactments. The Night at the Tavern events offer period food in an authentic setting, and the lively reenactments include period dress, horses and storytelling.
