You and I now have the chance to preserve 29 key and pristine acres from the 1862 Battle of Williamsburg in Virginia at – get this – a $220-to-$1 multiplier of your generosity!
The transaction has a value of an eye-popping $2,743,000, due to the land’s market value as a property zoned for commercial use. Amazingly, between significant federal and state matching grants and a donation of value from the owner of the property, you and I can save this land for just $12,500! That’s right: for just $12,500, you and I can save some of the most important land associated with this key battle of the 1862 Peninsula Campaign, land that was destined to be developed and lost forever.
Some scattered parcels have been preserved over the years, but as you can see above on the battle map, this is the first time any part of the main action near the famous “Bloody Ravine” has been targeted for preservation. Even though the economy has recently plummeted, many developers are sitting on piles of cash and ready to take tracts as this one.
Take a look at this photo to see how pristine this part of the Williamsburg Battlefield is. When you see the land for yourself, it is shocking to think that this hallowed ground is zoned for commercial development. Look closely on the left of the photo below to see if you can spot the small fawn lying in the grass. Hint: look for two ears!
Can you find the fawn in this photo of Williamsburg Battlefield? Click to enlarge.
This photo is a reminder that saving battlefields does not only mean creating outdoor history classrooms. Battlefields also serve as homes for wildlife and breathtaking open spaces where one can experience and enjoy nature.
And today, I am asking for you to help keep this land as pristine today as on the day of the battle 158 years ago. Will you join me to help us raise the $12,500 we need to save these acres of this battlefield forever?
‘Til The Battle is Won!
The American Battlefield Trust