In 2023 the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation (SVBF) saved 671 acres, through 8 projects across 7 battlefields.
SVBF completed two different projects at New Market, totaling 74 acres. The two parcels were separated by the Valley Pike. East of the road was a 52-acre project that included the site of the VMI Cadet artillery battery; this preservation project had started in 2019, and the final payment on it was made during 2023's spring. The second parcel, on the west side of the road, totaled 22 acres and was where Col. George S. Patton’s 22nd Virginia Infantry fought Union troops and pushed them northward.
In April, preservation of the 107 acres at Port Republic, known as The Coaling, was completed. Port Republic was the last battle of Stonewall Jackson’s 1862 Valley Campaign, and The Coaling was vital position during the battle.
SVBF finalized their largest project of the year during the spring: the 156-acre Carter Farm. On June 15, 1863, Union Maj. Gen. Robert H. Milroy’s VIII Corps of the Middle Department faced Lt. Gen. Richard S. Ewell’s Second Corps as part of the Battle of Second Winchester.
The West Woods were at the center of the fighting during the Battle of Third Winchester. In September, SVBF raised the final funds necessary to complete the preservation of 34 acres.
Other projects completed by SVBF this year include 141 acres at Piedmont; 36 acres at Hupp’s Hill in Strasburg; as well as an easement on 123 acres at Tom’s Brook.
You can learn more about the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation and their projects at shenandoahatwar.org.