|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
May-91
|
Formation
of BRCWRT with preservation as one of its two primary objectives.
|
|
Sept.-91
|
Members
hand out petitions to support Wakeman Fort (south of Manassas) and
Brandy Station Battlefield; 2. Members hand out postcards and
pre-printed messages for communication to Senators Warner, Robb
and Secretary of the Interior Lujan, in support of the
preservation of Brandy Station Battlefield; 3. Several members,
including BRCWRT President Bill Miller, attend a summit of
preservation groups at Shepherdstown, WV.
|
|
Oct.
91
|
Begin
publishing upcoming historical events. Includes both those at no
cost and those whose proceeds benefit the local battlefield
foundation’s efforts to purchase and preserve the battlefield.
Examples include the 125th
Anniversary of the re-interment of the Ashby brothers, officers,
and men of the Laurel Brigade at the Stonewall Cemetery in
Winchester, Va. for the former and Cedar Creek Battlefield
Foundation for the later.
|
|
Nov-91
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Jan.-92
|
Bill
Miller meets with Ken Apaschnikat, Superintendent of Manassas
National Battlefield Park (MNBP) and begins a dialogue regarding
BRCWRT’s future contributions to the welfare of the battlefield.
|
|
Feb.-92
|
With
the recent relocation of MNBP’s offices to the newly purchased
Stuart Hill tract, the placement a flag pole there is born in
order to publicize the recent activities. Shortly afterwards, the
location will include a visitor center.
|
|
Mar.-92
|
BRCWRT’s
initial preservation donation:
committing
to a $600
funding effort for new flag pole at MNBP.
|
|
Apr.-92
|
Letter
writing campaign begins asking various politicians to appropriate
monies to buy and remove the “national tower” from the
Gettysburg Battlefield scene.
|
|
May-92
|
One-halfway
towards raising the necessary funds for the MNBP flag pole.
|
|
June-92
|
BRCWRT
joins the Virginia Dept. of Transportation Adopt-a-Highway
program;
2. Picked up (30) bags of trash from local roads (Groveton Rd. and
Pageland Lane) around the Stuart Hill tract at MNBP.
|
|
July-92
|
BRCWRT
becomes a charter member of BPAC
(Battlefield Preservation Advisory Coalition).
|
|
Aug.-92
|
Donates
$300 to the Brandy Station. Foundation; 2. Supporting the Cannon
Branch Fort preservation efforts in Manassas; 3. Wades into the
fray over Senate Bill 514 in the Virginia legislature; 4. Raises
$700 for the MNBP flagpole.
|
|
Sept.-92
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Oct.
-92
|
Support
MNBP’s efforts regarding the Brawner Tract & Dunklin
Monument.
|
|
Nov.-92
|
Supports
the South Mountain Battlefield preservation efforts.
|
|
Dec.-92
|
Supports
the Bristoe Battlefield preservation efforts. Preservation
Donations for 1992:
$950.
|
|
Jan.-93
|
Supports
the Belle Grove’s Mansion and New Market Battlefield Park into
the Shenandoah Battlefield Project.
|
|
Feb.-93
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Mar.-93
|
Award:
BRCWRT receives a Certificate of Appreciation from the State of
Va. Dept. of Conservation and Recreation for
the MNBP flagpole effort.
|
|
Apr.-93
|
Award:
“Take Pride in America” award at the conference in Richmond,
2. Continuing to support the Shenandoah Battlefield Park; 3.
Support the "Horse-Mounted Program."
|
|
May-93
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
June-93
|
Preservation
Alerts: Glendale, Bristoe Station, & Shenandoah Valley
National Battlefields.
|
|
July-93
|
MNBP:
BRCWRT donates $600 for the repair and preservation of the
Groveton Monument. 2. BRCWRT receives a congratulatory letter for
donations to the Ninth Pennsylvania Reserves for the C.F. Jackson
Memorial Fund.
|
|
Aug.-93
|
MNBP:
Alert: The Robinson House, a prominent landmark at the
battlefield, is almost totally destroyed by fire.
|
|
Sept.-93
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Oct.-93
|
Raising
funds to support the preservation of Glendale and Malvern Hill
Battlefields; 2. BRCWRT announces a clear statement of
preservation goals and objectives.
|
|
Nov.-93
|
BRCWRT’s
initial involvement with the Ox Hill Battlefield Park. The
Round Table vigorously supports the acquisition of Parcel 5 by
Fairfax County.
|
|
Dec.-93
|
Initiates
a call-in campaign to support Sully District Supervisor’s
Michael Frey effort for Fairfax County to purchase Parcel 5; 2.
Alert: First
mention of "Disney's Theme Park."
No official position at this time due to a lack of credible
information; 3. Raffled a historical print “Stonewall Jackson at
Manassas, July 21, 1861” to raise funds ($201) for Glendale and
Malvern Hill Battlefields. Preservation
Donations for 1993: $600.
|
|
Jan.-94
|
Ox Hill:
Soliciting members to attend the public hearing for the county’s
effort to acquire Parcel 5; 2. Bristoe Station: County Supervisor
and BRCWRT member, Ms. Bobby McManus, support the rezoning; 3.
Authored and sent a letter of support for the purchase of the
Charles Hardy Grim
estate near
the Kernstown, Battlefield, thereby enabling markers and opening
the area up to the public; 4. Raffle to support the
Glendale-Malvern Hill fundraising efforts resulted in $266, which
was matched by the Gilder Foundation of New York.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Feb.-94
|
Ox
Hill: Members speak at the recent public hearing regarding the
county’s effort to acquire Parcel 5 for $550K; 2. Bristoe
Station: Letter writing campaign initiated to thwart lower density
efforts; 3. Alert: Disney’s America officially applies for a
re-zoning of land for its proposed theme park in Prince William
County.
|
|
Mar.-94
|
Bristoe
Station: Success!
Prince
William County Planning Commission (PWCPC) approves lower density;
2. Success!
City of Manassas approves buffer zone around Cannon Branch Fort,
which BRCWRT actively supported.
|
|
Apr.-94
|
Award:
Bill Miller receives "The Fletcher Pratt Award" for his
book "Mapping for Stonewall: The Civil War Service of Jed
Hotchkiss."
|
|
May-94
|
Members
attend the recent National Park Service (NPS) meeting regarding
the preferred new route of the high-voltage power lines that
currently span the Stuart Tract; 2. Ox Hill: contact is made with
the land owner for Parcel # 5; 3. BRCWRT continues to actively
support the acquisition of the Charles Hardy Grim estate for the
Kernstown Battlefield.
|
|
June-94
|
Donates
$150
to Handley Library in Winchester for their Civil War Manuscript
Preservation Project; 2. Bristoe
Station:
BRCWRT supports an alternative that would designate a large
portion of land as a battlefield preserve.
|
|
July-94
|
Soliciting
membership feedback regarding the Disney theme park; 2. Bristoe
Station:
PWCBS votes to allow residential development around the
battlefield. BRCWRT involved via Pres. Armando Mancini's 1994
proposal.
|
|
Aug.-94
|
Recognizes
the excellent work Ralph Swanson has done via his monthly
“Preservation” piece in the newsletter. Hhe and Renata (wife
and also a significant contributor) are being transferred to
Provo, Utah; 2. Members are urged to visit the Ball’s Bluff area
in Leesburg as the town is considering expanding the battlefield
area through the acquisition of another 50-acres; 3. Ox Hill:
Fairfax County takes title to the last 2.5-acres of the
battlefield.
|
|
Sept.-94
|
Shenandoah
Valley Battlefield: Armando Mancini is tracking the bill as it
advances in Congress. Members are urged to continue their support
via letter writing campaign; 2. Requesting feedback from any
member visiting Tredegar Iron Works in Richmond in consideration
of supporting their new museum; 3. Requesting membership to
support and visit the new, privately-owned and operated Pamplin
Park Civil War Site near Petersburg, VA.
|
|
Oct.-94
|
Bristoe
Station: Numerous articles appear in the monthly newsletter
regarding BRCWRT’s active involvement in the development of the
battlefield park over the last nine (9) months.
|
|
Nov.-94
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Dec.-94
|
BRCWRT’s
Initial Preservation Committee is Formed: John
McAnaw heads the effort and is seeking input from members
regarding future preservation efforts for their upcoming meeting
to be held at the MNBP Visitor’s Center. Preservation
Donations for 1994:
$150.
|
|
Jan.-95
|
BRCWRT
is announced as host of the upcoming symposium "1862 Summer
Campaign in Va. & Md.” and sets aside $1,000; 2. Union
Mills: John McAnaw leads an effort to preserve noted archeological
sites in the area; 3. Ox Hill: monitoring continues regarding the
transfer of the 2+ acres of land to the park authority.
|
|
Feb.-95
|
The
preservation Committee is very active via monthly status reports,
particularly with regards to Bristoe Station, Union Mills, Bull
Run fords, Mayfield fortification and the Cannon Branch
fortification on the Wakeman tract.
|
|
Mar.-95
|
Received
updated news on several efforts from the Association for the
Preservation of Civil War Sites (APCWS).
|
|
Apr.-95
|
Supports
VFW Post 8489’s project to conduct an aerial photos the historic
sites in the vicinity of the old Orange and Alexandria Railroad
(now Norfolk Southern) from Fairfax Station west to near Manassas
Junction, as many of the sites are now threatened by development.
|
|
May-95
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
June-95
|
Commits
$500 to support APCWS’s effort to acquire land on the sites of
Second and third Winchester battlefields; 2. Updates the status of
the latest APCWS efforts.
|
|
July-95
|
Monitoring
APCWS efforts to raise funds regarding the preservation of Third
Winchester. The ‘march’ of June 24-25 by (500+) reenactors was
very successful in that effort.
|
|
Aug.-95
|
Donates
$500 payment to APCWS for the Second & Third Winchester sites.
APCWS exercised its option for $500K to acquire 200-acres of the
Third Winchester Battlefield; 2. Supporting "The Society of
Port Republic Preservation" effort.
|
|
Sept.-95
|
BRCWRT
announces its preservation priorities: Focusing in and around the
City of Manassas, Bristoe Station, Union Mills area, Thoroughfare
Gap, Winchester Battlefields, Brandy Station, and Ox Hill
(Chantilly).
|
|
Oct.-95
|
Brandy
Station: Hopes rekindled regarding 425 acre parcel as BRCWRT
continues to monitor the situation.
|
|
Nov.-95
|
Promotes
the acquisition of "Civil War Coins," for which the
monies support battlefield preservation.
|
|
Dec.-95
|
Union
Mills: John McAnaw updates membership regarding the development
situation on “The Balmoral Tract.” Preservation
Donations for 1995:
$500
|
|
Jan.-96
|
Brandy
Station: Large ‘recap’ article regarding the preservation saga
of the battlefield by John McAnaw.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Feb.-96
|
Requesting
all Prince William County members to contact their respective
supervisor and voice their concern over the county’s
consideration of eliminating their History Commission as an
independent county agency; 2. Lists the top (50) Civil War
battlefields in order of their preservation importance.
|
|
Mar.-96
|
Brandy
Station:
Success!
The Motorsport Complex is nixed with BRCWRT support; 2.
Appreciation expressed to members living in Prince William County
as they garnered a robust call-in effort. They were rewarded by
saving the History Commission as an independent agency via rolling
it under the Architecture Review Board.
|
|
Apr.-96
|
MNBP:
(a) BRCWRT is directly involvement with the “General Management
Plan” (GNP) review process via participation in the public
hearings on the future of the battlefield, (b) Soliciting
membership participation/response to the NPS’s solicitation
regarding MNBP, (c) Per MNBP’s request, BRCWRT is providing
‘weekend’ volunteers; 2. Civil War Coins program has raised
$6M thus far.
|
|
May-96
|
MNBP:
BRCWRT membership reviewing its response to the NPS solicitation
request; 2. Supports the City of Manassas efforts to restore
Mayfield and Cannon Branch Forts. The city is targeting $400K for
the task.
|
|
June-96
|
MNBP:
Stuart Hill Center’s grand opening is very impressive, including
significant membership support; 2. Dan Paterson is intricately
involved in the Longstreet Symposium which is seeking to raise
monies for its memorial fund. Another symposium is planned for
September; 3. Brandy Station: A deal on appears imminent; 4.
Kerns-town:
The
battlefield preservation effort names BRCWRT president Gary
Ecelbarger as a consultant.
|
|
July-96
|
Announces
an Early-Bird special (pricing) for members interested in
attending the upcoming BRCWRT-sponsored Oct. 5, “Second
Manassas” symposium; 2. Brandy Station: Solicits financial
support for the foundation.
|
|
Aug.-96
|
MNBP:
Participates in "Clean-up Day;" 2. Kernstown: Supports
the battlefield association via attending tours.
|
|
Sept.-96
|
Brandy
Station:
Success!
APCWS signs contract to acquire 1,543-acres as BRCWRT supports via
fund raising efforts by participating in the “$500K Challenge;”
2. Solicits support for the Ben Lomond Manor House “Civil War
Tea & Fashion Show,” for monies to restore the manor house.
|
|
Oct.-96
|
BRCWRT
hosts “The Symposium on Leadership at the Battle of Second
Manassas,”
featuring John Hennessey. The event proved to be a big hit as (42)
attended the day-long program.
|
|
Nov.-96
|
MNBP:
Alert: Preparing membership for the “Fifth
Battle of Manassas”
regarding various road issues: (a) Intersection of U.S. Hwy. 29
and Rte. 234, (b) Parkridge Project, Intersection of I-66 and Rte.
234, (c) Proposed Rte. 234 Bypass; 2. Donates $500 to APCWS from
monies derived from the “Second Manassas” symposium.
|
|
Dec.-96
|
Recognition
given to a developer, Joe Harsh, who is extremely pro-history; 3.
Soliciting financial and written support for Dumfries Museum, as
it loses its funding. Preservation
Donations for 1996:
$550.
|
|
Jan.-97
|
MNBP:
(a) The route for the Western Transportation Corridor which was
identified for further study would pass between Conway Robinson
State Forest and the Battlefield Park, (b) Canadian firm (Opus) is
planning a shopping mall on Rte. 234 that is wedged between Rte.
66 and the MNBP, (c) A campaign has begun to widen the
intersection at the Stone House with turn lanes, and (d) A VDOT
Rte. 29 study which proposes a highway route across Stony Ridge,
(e) Members are urged to contact the local offices regarding the
immediate threat at the Stone House intersection.
|
|
Feb.-97
|
MNBP:
(a) BRCWRT’s president is personally involved in terminating the
MIS study on the Western Transportation Corridor; (b) Members
attended a public meeting by VDOT, resulting in a hotline phone
number for comments regarding the Route 29 study; (c) BRCWRT
intends to take an official position on a minimum of three issues
at MNBP and is soliciting feedback from its membership. Meanwhile,
more development has been approved around the battlefield.
|
|
Mar.-97
|
MNBP:
(a) BRCWRT receives responses from the membership and prepares a
vote for actions going forward, (b) Three transportation proposals
are under study via VDOT. 2. Pat Gallagher assists with the
exhumation and identification of Civil War soldiers on the
McDonald’s restaurant site in Centreville.
|
|
Apr.-97
|
MNBP:
Ballots are in and the results are: (a) Oppose constructing turn
lanes at the Stone House intersection 52-2, (b) Oppose any route
over Stony Ridge 51-3 and (c) Oppose the Western Transportation
Corridor 50-1. Hence, three resolutions were constructed and
communicated to the appropriate contacts; 2. Members support the
rehabilitation of the Manassas railroad depot.
|
|
May-97
|
Recipients
of the American Battlefield Protection Plan are identified.
|
|
June-97
|
BRCWRT
brings attention to the authorities regarding the negative effect
of “traffic” noise on battlefields. Specific reference is made
to excessive noise at a recent dedication ceremony at Ox Hill
(Chantilly) Battlefield.
|
|
July-97
|
MNBP:
Members express support for the upcoming “Friends of Manassas
Battlefield” dinner and dance, assisting the volunteer and
living history programs; 2. Supports the “Preserve Port”
effort regarding the recent rain damage done at the Cross Keys and
Port Republic Battlefields.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Aug.-97
|
All
donations received at member Marilyn Clark-Snyder’s memorial
service are being sent to the Kernstown Battlefield Association in
recognition of her Civil War ancestor who fought there; 2.
Supporting MNBP’s 135th
commemoration of the Second Battle of Manassas; 3. MNBP: BRCWRT is
bringing visibility to VDOT recommendations for U.S. 29/State 234.
|
|
Sept.-97
|
Approves
$200 donation for restoration, examination and documentation of
the graffiti at Ben Lomond Manor House; 2. MNBP: John McAnaw and
Scott Patchan update membership on the various road proposals at
MNBP. Also, provided contact information to membership regarding
their respective congressmen.
|
|
Oct.-97
|
New
president, John McAnaw, states his intention to focus this year’s
preservation efforts on MNBP, including the continuing effort to
bring much needed exposure to the battle over the Stone House
intersection; 3. Beginning to educate members about the
preservation issues/efforts at Chancellorsville Battlefield.
|
|
Nov.-97
|
MNBP:
Membership is thanked for their tremendous support in contacting
their representatives regarding the Stone House Intersection road
issue – awaiting final conference wording. Award:
Annie Snyder is honored with the first Life Membership in BRCWRT
via her relentless 20-year preservation efforts regarding MNBP.
|
|
Dec.-97
|
With
funding in hand and with Dan Paterson’s efforts, the dedication
of the monument at Longstreet’s birthplace is scheduled for next
month in North Augusta, S.C. Preservation
Donations for 1997:
$250
|
|
Jan.-98
|
MNBP:
now facing an additional threat via a Wetland’s Creation
proposals by the Smithsonian Institution; 2. Monument to General
James Longstreet is dedicated.
|
|
Feb.-98
|
Donates
$250 for the Ben Lomond House project.
|
|
Mar.-98
|
Success!
MNBP is no longer under consideration for a wetland creation site;
2. MNBP membership reaffirms support to MNBP Superintendent
Sutton’s adamant opposition for major road construction at the
Stone House intersection; 3. The Blenheim Estate in Fairfax is now
under threat via the recently deceased owner’s (William Scott)
brother seeking to sell the
estate. BRCWRT is actively supporting more than (50) Northern
Virginians known as the “Citizen Coalition for the Preservation
of Blenheim” in an effort to save the historic property.
|
|
Apr.-98
|
Heat,
light, and visibility are heightened regarding the preservation of
the Union Mills area.
|
|
May-98
|
MNBP:
several members meet with Congressman Frank Wolf regarding the
Stone House intersection. He sets up a committee with Martha
Hendley (ex-BRCWRT pres.) as chair, to study the issue further.
|
|
June-98
|
Membership
has the pleasure of being introduced to Lisa at the monthly
meeting. She is an amazing young lady (10-yrs. old) who is a
reenactor and with strong interests in preservation.
|
|
July-98
|
MNBP:
Annie Snyder, first Life-Time Member of BRCWRT, meets and requests
the membership support in stopping the construction of a 50-acre
shopping mall planned for the west side of Rte. 234 between I-66
and the southern boundary of MNBP; 2. BRCWRT tours are assisting
National Landmark Register consideration of the Union Mills
fortifications; 3. Success!
Blenheim is saved via creation of historic district by Fairfax
City.
|
|
Aug.-98
|
MNBP:
soliciting members to voice opposition for road alteration plans
at the Stone House intersection through the contact of area
newspapers and politicians.
|
|
Sept.-98
|
As
a result of the considerable exposure for the preservation of
Civil War Battlefields, which BRCWRT is actively supporting,
Congress is considering funding the purchase of critical civil war
sites.
|
|
Oct.-98
|
Alert:
The Wilderness Battlefield rezoning threat; 2. MNBP Stone Bridge
needs repairs – may need to get involved.
|
|
Nov.-98
|
MNBP:
“Memorandum of Understanding” is reached between the National
Park Service (NPS) and VDOT regarding the intersection of Rte. 29
and Rte. 234. Awaiting the final details; 2. BRCWRT is monitoring
an escalating development issue in the Wilderness Battlefield.
|
|
Dec.-98
|
Preservation
Donations for 1998:
$250
|
|
Jan.-99
|
Members
tour the Centreville fortifications with Ed Bearss, raising the
stakes regarding various preservation issues; 2. BRCWRT brings
attention to the cell phone tower threat at MNBP; 3. Members
express an interest in supporting the Beverley Mill’s (Chapman’s
Mill) restoration effort.
|
|
Feb.-99
|
The
Centreville earthworks are rearing their ugly head as a major
local preservation battle; 2. Soliciting members to attend the
Feb. 23 public hearing and express their concerns regarding the
MNBP cell towers.
|
|
Mar.-99
|
Centreville:
BRCWRT receives a letter from distinguished Civil War Historian,
J. Michael Miller detailing the importance of preserving the
earthworks in Centreville; 2. Carol Drake Friedman, noted
historian and preservationist, is recognized for her assistance in
preserving the Civil War Sites in the Centreville area; 3. BRCWRT
initiates the creation of a program to place interpretative
markers at important Civil War sites along Bull Run and in
cooperation with the Prince William Historical Commission (PWHC)
via member Mark Trbovich.
|
|
Apr.-99
|
Sending
out another plea for members to contact their respective Fairfax
County Supervisor about the earthworks threat in Centreville; 2.
John McAnaw sends a letter sent to FCBS deploring the proposed
telco tower at MNBP.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
May-99
|
Centreville:
BRCWRT receives a letter from distinguished historian Ed Bearss
supporting the preservation of earthworks on a 14.33-acre track in
Centreville.
|
|
June-99
|
Centreville:
(a) J. Michael Miller’s entire letter is published in the
newsletter regarding the importance of preserving the earthworks,
(b) BRCWRT leadership meets with Elliot Gruber, Executive Director
of the Civil War Trust (CWT), who then tours the earthworks.
Result, he commits to support the preservation effort.
|
|
July-99
|
Centreville:
Movement on the earthworks effort now appears imminent via a
meeting scheduled July 6 with Robert Davis, Div. Pres. of CENTEX
HOMES and FCBS Chair, Kate Hanley; 2. BRCWRT is requested to lead
an artifact hunting effort on land proposed for an elementary
school (southern side of Camp Carondolet
in the
Manassas Park area). All unearthed artifacts will be turned over
to the Manassas Park Historical Society.
|
|
Aug.-99
|
Centreville:
It now appears that CENTEX HOMES is revising their site plan for
Phase 2 of the development to preserve the earthworks; 2. The
genesis for the Civil War (CW) Sites Inventory Preservation
Project is born
as John McAnaw solicits a list from members of any/all Civil War
related sites; 3. A letter to BRCWRT from Elliot Gruber, Exec.
Dir. Of the Civil War Trust is featured in the monthly newsletter,
discussing the opportunities lost in the immediate area.
|
|
Sept.-99
|
Fairfax
Inventory: The county is now considering the expenditure of $150K
on a comprehensive inventory of civil war sites project in the
county;
2. BRCWRT’s $500 donation to the Longstreet Society is intended
for the renovation of the General's Piedmont Hotel into a museum
that will house the General’s remaining artifacts and be the
Headquarters of the Society; 3. Centreville: Members are requested
to contact FCBS Chair Kate Hanley and other supervisors in order
to: (a) Approve the $150K expenditure, and (b) Acquire the
14.33-acre tract containing Civil War earthworks (on the site of
the Deerfield Ridge development of 126 townhouses) as a county
park.
|
|
Oct.-99
|
Centreville:
Success!
FCBS votes to turn over 1,226-acres, including the “Great
Redoubt” and "Ring Fort" to the Fairfax County Park
Authority (FCPS); 2. Fairfax Inventory: Success!
FCBS approves the expenditure of $150K for the inventory project,
with BRCWRT (led by John McAnaw) being the vanguard of the effort.
|
|
Nov.-99
|
MNBP:
The U.S. House of Representatives weighs in on educational
presentation at the National Civil War Battlefield Parks and the
“Stone House” intersection debate, with ‘safety’ being the
primary concern.
|
|
Dec.-99
|
MNBP:
Gravestones are vandalized at the Groveton Confederate Cemetery;
2. Centreville: Semi-success!
(80-85%) of the earthworks on the main Confederate line will be
saved as the result of the efforts by BRCWRT and a number of other
Civil War preservationists. Unfortunately, 100+ yards of Union
breastworks will be destroyed. Phase 1 (Union earthworks)
construction will begin this month with Phase II (Confederate
earthworks) beginning August 2000; 2. APCWS and The Civil War
Trust (CWT) agree to merge. The new organization will be called
the “Civil War Preservation Trust” (CWPT) with O. James
Lighthizer named as president and representing 40K members.
Preservation
Donations for 1999:
$500.
|
|
Jan.-2000
|
Centreville:
BRCWRT monitoring the activity with no indication of any
construction.
|
|
Feb.-00
|
MNBP:
BRCWRT solicits members to continue writing letters and making
phone calls on the Stone House inter-section as VDOT’s Draft
Environmental Assessment (EA) public hearing date is changed to 17
Feb.
|
|
Mar.-00
|
MNBP:
BRCWRT provided the largest contingent that attended last month’s
VDOT’s (EA) meeting regarding the Stone House intersection. The
final (EA) is expected to be published sometime this month.
|
|
Apr.-00
|
MNBP:
Famed BRCWRT preservationist, Annie Snyder is back, relatively
healthy, and firing off letters to the media and concerned
organizations protesting the planned construction at the Stone
House intersection.
|
|
May-00
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
June-00
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
July-00
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Aug.-00
|
Kernstown:
After four years of fundraisers and public awareness campaigns
with BRCWRT’s support; it finally looks like the association
will be able to close on the property in September.
|
|
Sept.-00
|
The
Friends of the Lee Boyhood Home, with support from several
BRCWRT’s membership, has submitted a proposal to buy, restore
and maintain the Robert E. Lee Boyhood Museum.
|
|
Oct.-00
|
No
newsletter this month.
|
|
Nov.-00
|
Wilderness:
BRCWRT is monitoring the National Park Service’s (NPS) efforts
to acquire a key part of the battle-field, i.e., “Longstreet’s
Flank Attack Area;” 2. Centreville: land clearing is completed
for Phase I and part of Phase II and Phase III for the Deerfield
Ridge development.
|
|
Dec.-00
|
MNBP:
Success! (a)
CWPT announces that they’ve acquired the 136-acre tract Davis
Tract with BRCWRT’s financial support, (b) Requesting membership
to attend a public meeting on 18 Dec. regarding other issues; 2.
BRCWRT is supporting "Preservation 2000," with all
monies going to various preservation efforts.
Preservation
Donations for 2000:
$25.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Jan.-01
|
Ox
Hill: (a) Plan and design work has been delayed as the funds have
been diverted elsewhere. Ed Wenzel is personally monitoring the
situation, (b) The Department of Historical Resources (DHR) in
Richmond has approved two historical markers authored by Ed
Wenzel.
|
|
Feb.-01
|
The
effort to save Robert E. Lee’s boyhood home as a museum has
failed and will now be converted into a private resident; 2. John
McAnaw is personally touring locally threatened Civil War sites
with nationally known Ed Bearss in order to bring much needed
visibility to the issue; 3. Fairfax Inventory: The first of four
public meetings was held regarding the Fairfax County Civil War
Sites Inventory Project.
|
|
Mar.-01
|
Bristoe
Station:
Reservation concerns for the battlefield have again reemerged; 2.
Ox Hill: Ed Wenzel and Bob Hickey are leading the latest progress,
however funding still remains an issue; 3. Kernstown: The
symposium is being supported by BRCWRT with Scott Patchan and Gary
Ecelbarger
speaking.
Proceeds will help pay off debt.
|
|
Apr.-01
|
Ox
Hill: (a) Solicits members to support efforts to acquire funds for
the interpretation of the battlefield, (b) BRCWRT expresses
concern about FCPA’s commitment to the park via reduced funding,
repeated delays, and apparent resistance to the level of
historical interpretation, (c) Members are requested to write to
the Park Authority Director, the Chairman of the Board of
Supervisors, and the Supervisor in their district; 2. Blenheim:
Member Patricia A. Gallagher is directly involved in the
identification process of the names on the walls of the Blenheim
House in the City of Fairfax.
|
|
May-01
|
Fairfax
Inventory: Appreciation expressed to those who participated in the
“Search and Find” project that located Civil War sites near
the old Orange and Alexandria RR bed (running from Backlick Road
to Rolling Road in Fairfax County); 2. Blenheim: (a) A total of
(82) names have been identified on the walls of the house, (b)
Solicits support for Civil War Weekend with all proceeds going to
the Blenheim Restoration Project
|
|
June-01
|
Fairfax
Inventory: Members are recognized for their participation in the
project; 2. Ox Hill: Members also recognized for their
participation in the Memorial Day celebration; 3. Preservation
efforts on private property by several members are applauded.
|
|
July-01
Aug.-01
|
Fairfax
Inventory: Membership continues to express support for the “Search
and Find” project; 2. Solicits members to support CWPT’s
efforts to raise $330K to purchase an 118-acre tract pertinent to
the Petersburg Campaign; 3. BRCWRT’s founding father, Bill
Miller, is appointed to the board of the newly formed “Richmond
Battlefields Association” for battlefield preservation in the
Richmond area; 4. Ox Hill: Ed Wenzel begins media blitz via
Washington Times, Civil War News, & Time Community Newspaper
regarding the funding issue.
|
|
Sept.-01
|
Fairfax
Inventory: $200K+ is needed to complete the “Search and Find”
efforts; 2. Centreville: BRCWRT is bringing needed exposure to
another section of earthworks that’s threatened (Mt. Gilead Rd.
& Wharton Lane).
|
|
Oct.-01
Nov.-01
|
Ox
Hill: “Fairfax Journal” article details the delays at the
battlefield; 2. Fairfax Inventory: John McAnaw meets with Kate
Hanley, Chair FCBS, regarding the continuation of the project; 3.
Centreville: Another civil war site, Fort Johnson, has been
destroyed in the area. BRCWRT is publicizing the situation.
|
|
Dec.-01
|
Fairfax
Inventory: (a) The county, via BRCWRT’s persistence, is
successful in obtaining $200K for the continuation of the
inventory of Civil War sites project in Fairfax County, (b) The
“Search & Find” effort is very successful, as many
heretofore unknown Civil War sites have been
discovered/documented; 2. Ox Hill: Ed Wenzel's persistence pay off
as $118K is acquired for interpretation of the battlefield; 3.
Centreville: soliciting support against the upcoming rezoning
request of a section of the Centreville Historic District; 4.
Bristoe Station: Request to rezone part of the battlefield has
been postponed until 20 February.
Preservation
Donations for 2001:
$420.
|
|
Jan.-02
|
Centreville:
(a) BRCWRT is strongly involved with the Mt. Gilead rezoning
hearing (Stanley-Martin). BRCWRT solicits support for the upcoming
Jan. 7 public hearing, speaking limited to 3-minutes, (b) Ed
Bearss invited to speak before the FCBS on the proposed rezoning
of a section of the Centreville Historic District as a result of
BRCWRT efforts; 2. John McAnaw strongly endorses members to join
the Civil War Preservation Trust (CWPT).
|
|
Feb.-02
|
Centreville:
Rezoning meeting postponed (second time). BRCWRT solicits its
members to attend the Feb. 25 meeting; 2. Bristoe Station: (a)
Members requested to attend the Feb. 6 public hearing regarding
the unmarked graves complicating the deal to save the battlefield,
(b) Solicits members to support a thorough Forensic Anthropologist
and complete thermal imaging of the gravesite area.
|
|
Mar.-02
|
Centreville:
Solicits participation in the Mar.
18 rezoning meeting; 2. BRCWRT solicits info on Irish Soldier,
Patrick Logue, Co. D, 182nd
N.Y. Infantry Regiment, believed to be buried in an unknown grave
in the area.
|
|
Apr.-02
|
BRCWRT
receives an invitation to join other preservationists on Sat. Apr.
6 for a first-ever public tour of more than one mile of
Confederate earthworks in the vicinity of Petersburg; 2.
Centerville: After hearing (20) speakers, many from BRCWRT, FCBS
votes to defer the rezoning vote; 3. Recognition of the many
members who have invested their time and consideration over the
past ten years via BRCWRT’s numerous preservation efforts.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
May-02
June-02
|
Centerville:
(a) FCBS approves the Stanley-Martin rezoning application to
develop part of the Centreville Historic District (CHOD), (b) John
McAnaw and Ed Wenzel send follow-up letters to FCBS expressing
their dismay.
|
|
July-02
|
Solicits
membership to recruit more members in order to have more influence
on preservation issues at public hearings in the future; 2.
Bristoe Station: Requests more members to aid in the search for
Confederate burial sites.
|
|
Aug.-02
|
Annie
Snyder, legendary BRCWRT preservationist, passes away in July.
Most of the newsletter honors her efforts; 2. Solicits members to
support CWPT and their efforts to acquire/preserve battlefields.
|
|
Sept.-02
|
Chancellorsville:
Designated the top preservation issue as a result of the
acquisition of 800-acres by the Dogwood Development Group; 2.
Bristoe Station: Requesting more volunteers to search for unmarked
graves; 3. Ox Hill: FCPA is forming a project team; 4. Star Fort
in Vienna is slated for partial development; 5. Donation of $50 is
made to "The Central Virginia Trust," in lieu of
honorarium to last month’s speaker, Brian Pohanka.
|
|
Nov.-02
|
Chancellorsville:
Members are requested to contact the Spotsylvania County Board of
Supervisors (SCBS) regarding the threat at the battlefield; 2.
Bristoe Station: Prince William County approves the rezoning of
the 341-acre Rollins property for Centex Homes from agriculture to
residential. CENTEX agreed to deed 127-acres to CWPT for a
proffer; 4. Field Training Session for BRCWRT preservationists
held on Nov. 16.
|
|
Dec.-02
|
Fairfax
Inventory: John McAnaw extends his appreciation to the many
members who invested hundreds of hours in research and field work
in support of the very successful inventory project; 2.
Spotsylvania: Thanks extended to the members who participated in
the recently held contentious meeting with the Spotsylvania County
Planning Commission (SPCPC) on the proposed 791-acre rezoning
section of the battlefield; 3.The ongoing saga of the creation of
National Historic Park in the Shenandoah Valley. Preservation
Donations for 2002:
$480.
|
|
Jan.-03
|
Updates
provided on several threatened Civil War Sites: Star Fort, Grigsby
Hill or Little Rocky Run Battlefield, Centreville Historic
District (CHOD), Bristoe Station Battlefield, and Chancellorsville
Battlefield.
|
|
Feb.-03
Mar.-03
|
Fairfax
Inventory: FCBS receives a briefing on the project, with BRCWRT
involvement; 2. BRCWRT ‘field training classes’ are providing
membership an appreciation for Civil War archaeology; 3.
Spotsylvania: Names and contact information is provided for the
new supervisors and other personnel who recently resigned. It’s
time to begin contacting them; 4. Bristoe Station: Transfer of
land by CENTEX to CWPT is expected to take place sometime in
April; 5.The second BRCWRT ‘field training session’ for
members is planned for March 2.
|
|
Apr.-03
|
With
the extensive experience gained in working with the Fairfax County
on the “Search and Find” project BRCWRT is now offering this
service to its members via a formalized request process within the
organization.
|
|
May-03
|
Bristoe
Station: Solicits members to assist in search for Confederate
graves; 2. Spotsylvania: Success!
County Board of Supervisors votes to deny the rezoning request
(6-0) by the developer of Dogwood, a.k.a. the “town” of
Chancellorsville. BRCWRT strongly supported the denial.
|
|
June-03
July-03
|
Certificates
of appreciation are received by BRCWRT from the Centreville
Regional Library for the long time partnership and volunteers who
assist the library in accomplishing its mission to the public with
Fairfax County; 2. Bristoe Station: (a) Date (1 July 2003) is set
for title transfer from Rollins the family to CENTEX Corp, (b)
Thirty-seven members assisted “The Sons of Confederate Veterans”
(SCV) search for Confederate graves; 5. Ox Hill: Planning delayed
again; 6. Fairfax Inventory: Success!
The Fairfax County Civil War Sites Inventory is finally released.
|
|
Aug.-03
Sept.-03
|
Bristoe
Station: (a) Members have attended five meetings in the search for
Confederate graves, (b) Washington Post Aug. 17 article details
BRCWRT's efforts to assist SCV project to find unmarked soldier
graves; 2. MNBP: Excellent participation by members in the third
Public Workshop regarding the 'By-Pass' Study; 3. Good news: The
Confederate trenches near Petersburg have been spared, with BRCWRT
support; 4. This month’s speaker donates his $50 speaker fee to
the Central Va. Battlefield Trust.
|
|
Oct.-03
|
Bristoe
Station: The battlefield’s 140th Anniversary is commemorated
with a small event. Six out of 25 in attendance are BRCWRT
members.
|
|
Nov.-03
|
Ox
Hill: Situation is rapidly becoming a fiasco, as reported by Ed
Wenzel; 2. Bristoe Station: (a) Excellent support from membership
regarding the search for Confederate graves on the CENTEX Tract,
(b) The latest count of support includes (17) Members who
participated in the 11-12 Aug. and 15-16 Aug. efforts, and six
more on 19 Oct.
|
|
Dec.-03
|
Congratulations
are extended to the members who supported the “March for
Preservation at Lookout Mountain.” Collections totaled $118 for
the CWPT; 2. Bristoe Station: Ten members supported the 25-26 Oct.
grave searches, resulting in a few artifacts, but no graves were
found. Preservation
Donations for 2003:
$1,126.
|
|
Jan.-04
|
Centreville:
The concept of a “Fairfax County Heritage Park in Centreville is
introduced to the membership as the destruction continues; 2.
Three members assist the research on the Battle of New Market; 3.
Bristoe Station: Twelve members support the 8-9 Nov. grave search;
4. Raffling “The “69th
New York at Fredericksburg” print results in $320 for future
BRCWRT preservation efforts. Kudos to Bob Hickey for his time and
efforts.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Feb.-04
|
Bristoe
Station: Ten members offer their assistance for Saturday’s,
January 17 and 24, to clean and catalog artifacts that were found
this summer while searching for unidentified graves; 2. Ox Hill &
Union Mills: (a) Master planning for both is slated to begin soon.
(b) Public hearing is scheduled and members are requested to
attend and provide their input. (c) Planning for the battlefields
now appears to be two separate projects.
|
|
Mar.-04
|
Round
table members attended the recent Virginia Civil War Trails (VCWT)
Region IV meeting. Primary objectives included the identification
of interesting Civil War sites, promoting tourism via publicizing
the sites, and preserving our Civil War heritage.
|
|
Apr.-04
|
Ox
Hill & Union Mills: (a) Ed Wenzel details the master planning
effort for both locations in this month’s newsletter, (b) John
McAnaw, is named to the task force
|
|
May-04
June-04
|
Ox Hill:
(a) Revised plan is presented 15 April, (b) Official naming of the
park is still under consideration; 2. Centreville: The Historic
Overlay District (CHOD) is threatened by more land-mauling.
|
|
July-04
Aug.-04
|
Work on
'Star Fort' in Vienna has caused considerable damage and
threatened its viability as a worth-while stop on the Virginia
Civil War Trails route; 2. Brandy Station: Development has once
again threatened the battle-field. Membership is requested to
“take up arms via their pens and word processors;” 3. Ox Hill
& Union Mills: (a) Task force has completed its work, (b)
BRCWRT is soliciting membership participation for the public
hearings.
|
|
Sept.-04
|
MNBP:
BRCWRT is
designated a consulting party for “Manassas Battlefield –
Bypass Study;”
2. Ox
Hill & Union Mills: Hearings
take place on Sept. 13 on the master planning. Six of the ten
BRCWRT members who attended provided input. A special thanks goes
to Mary Ahrens for driving 275 miles from north central
Pennsylvania to speak at the hearing
|
|
Oct.-04
|
Bristoe
Station:
Success! Ownership
finally changes hands from CENTEX to CWPT; 2.
Solicits members to contact the FCBS to find the means to purchase
the land for park use and historical interpretation around Salona,
in Mclean, Va. Financial support can be made via the “Save
Salona” website.
|
|
Nov.-04
|
In
support of the Haymarket Museum’s historical and preservation
efforts, Mark Trbovich authored and dedicated two Civil War
Trails’ markers right next to the museum, with excellent
membership attendance.
|
|
Dec.-04
|
Mount
Zion Church Preservation Association, Inc. (MZCPA), formed to
preserve, promote and protect the 1851 School and Baptist Church
proves to be a model for success. Its 501c3 non-profit
organization status greatly aided their fund raising efforts to
attain their goals. Preservation
Donations for 2004:
$1,669.
|
|
Jan.-05
|
MNBP:
Solicits memberships comments/recommendations regarding the draft
EIS (Environmental Impact Study), which may well define the
Manassas By-pass; 2. BRCWRT’s
stated preservation efforts for 95’: Fairfax
County, Prince William County, Centreville, Union Mills, Salona
(McLean), Wolf Run Shoals, Buckland Races Battlefield, Buckland,
Bristoe Station Battlefield and Confederate Winter camps
(1861-62).
|
|
Feb.-05
Mar.-05
|
Ox Hill:
Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) finally approves the
battlefield park plan. However, money is still an issue and
jeopardizing the completion of the park as now approved; 2. MNBP:
The Draft Environmental statement concerning Alternative “Bypass”
Routes around the park is released.
|
|
Apr.-05
|
Ox
Hill: Costs climb to $650K, with a net deficit of $450K. More
funds are being sought; 2. Centreville: BRCWRT is urged to state
its views on the Centreville Overlay Historic District (CHOD); 2.
Preservation efforts that BRCWRT is actively involved in include:
(a) Funding to interpret Ox Hill Battlefield, (b) Manassas
Battlefields Road Bypass Study, and (c) Preservation of
fortifications, encampments, and cemeteries within or adjacent to
the CHOD; 3. Centreville: A work group is being formed and will
meet at the Sully supervisor’s office on April 11; 4. Letters
are being sent from BRCWRT to FCBS regarding Ox Hill and Civil War
facilities not included in CHOD; 5. BRCWRT higher level people
meet with Gerald Connolly, chair of the FCBS, to discuss several
important preservation issues; 6. MNBP: named # 1 on CWPT’s “Ten
Most Endangered Civil War Battlefields” list. Award:
Ed
Wenzel is recognized and hailed as the “Real hero of Ox Hill,”
for saving the battlefield.
|
|
May-05
|
Ox
Hill: (a) John McAnaw and Charlie Balch meet with FCPA Director
Michael Kane and staff to discuss the funding shortfall and what
could be done to find more money, (b) Great news, as VDOT has
determined that a turn lane for the battlefield is not be
required, thereby lowering the deficit of the project by $200K; 2.
MNBP: With the Draft EIS Hearing May 5 seen as the key to averting
a threat, the Friends of Manassas Battlefield and BRCWRT both
partner in an effort to secure memberships participation in the
final phase of the Bypass Study; 3. Centreville: Solicits
membership support for the upcoming May 24 public hearing on the
expansion of the CHOD; 4. BRCWRT provides needed exposure for the
Confederate Navy’s Exhibition at The Museum of the Confederacy.
|
|
June-05
July-05
|
MNBP:
Thanks is extended to the many BRCWRT members who attended the
recent public hearings regarding the Draft EIS phase of the
Manassas Battlefield bypass Study and/or the Tri-County Parkway
Location Study; 2. Ox Hill: Contract delays are discussed after
meeting with FCPA; 3. Centreville: Work group meeting at Sully
District Supervisor’s Office is attended by several BRCWRT
members.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Aug.-05
Sept.-05
|
Four
hundred people attend the memorial service for the noted and late
preservationist friend of BRCWRT, Brian Pohanka; 2.
Negotiations continue on the sale of the Salona Property in
McLean.
|
|
Oct.-05
|
On
Aug. 6, John McAnaw spends four hours with Gerald Connolly,
Chairman of FCBS, covering all Civil War sites within and near the
proposed boundaries of an expanded CHOD; 2.
Ox Hill: Planning is now in high gear. Several issues remain,
including ADA compliance, etc.
|
|
Nov.-05
|
Ox
Hill: Site plan evolves as handicapped trail is relocated; 2. A
breakthrough occurs at the Salona property. A rather unique
agreement has been reached allowing the FCPA to acquire a
conservation easement on the land, thereby enabling a solution
that favors preservation. Mike Shannon continues to monitor
developments.
|
|
Dec.-05
|
Ox
Hill: Parking area is currently being studied along with the
creation of the text for markers.
Preservation
Donations for 2005:
$473.
|
|
Jan.-06
Feb.-06
|
MNBP:
Solicits membership for attendance and input at the Feb. 8 & 9
public meetings regarding the draft GMP/EIS, being held at the
Henry Hill Visitor Center.
|
|
Mar.-06
|
Brandy
Station: The Foundation purchases 8-acres at Kelly's Ford with
CWPT and Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
providing most of the funding; 2. Rob Orrison is named the new
Site Manager for the Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre; 3. Ox
Hill: Planning nears completion as Ed Wenzel continues to solicit
feedback from BRCWRT for historical accuracy purposes.
|
|
Apr.-06
|
Bristoe
Station: BRCWRT solicits members support for yet another
anticipated rezoning threat via 267.88-acres in the southeast
quadrant of the battlefield (Union positions south of the
railroad); 2. Ox Hill: Trail segments are realigned; 3.
Centreville: the Rice Property development near CHOD is decried as
BRCWRT gets involved.
|
|
May-06
|
Ox
Hill: Interpretative plan and text is reviewed, changes are urged;
2. Centreville:
Ed Wenzel’s testimony regarding the Stanley Martin development
prompts FCBS to delay a decision on the proposed rezoning of the
3.68-acre Rice Track located within the proposed expanded
Centreville Historic District.
|
|
June-06
July-06
|
Centreville:
Alert regarding FCBS public hearing on Rice Tract. BRCWRT
soliciting attendance and input by members; 2. Membership is
requested to support fund raising for repair of monuments at
Gettysburg that were vandalized; 3. Ox Hill: Interpretive plan is
redrafted as park staff clings to annual evaluation.
|
|
Aug.-06
Sept.-06
|
Ox
Hill: Interpretative meetings continue; 2. Centreville: (a) FCBS
will again consider rezoning 3.68-acres of the Centreville
Historic Overlay District (CHOD), (b) BRCWRT is adamantly opposed
to the destructive rezoning request, and (c) BRCWRT recommends the
Gateway Heritage Park concept including the Middle Fort, Covered
Way, Apex Fort, West Fort, the Mount Gilead property and other
Civil War sites within the 1935 NPS boundaries
|
|
Oct.-06
|
Centreville:
Solicits members to attend the Nov. 20 NVP Inc.’s rezoning
request on the Rice Tract; 2. Merrybrook: Numerous members attend
and offer several options/contacts for the preservation of the
historic house (former home of Laura Ratcliffe); 3. Ox Hill:
Interpretive meeting postponed, visitor kiosk downsized and text
questioned.
|
|
Nov.-06
|
Charlie
Balch is interviewed regarding his various preservation efforts;
2. Centreville: FCBS announces that a Phase I Archeological Survey
will be required for certain zoning on applications located in or
contiguous to CHOD; 3. Ox Hill: Interpretive text is under review
again with a possible deadlock in the offing; 4. Merrybrook:
BRCWRT receives a “Thank You” letter from the Meiselman’s
(current owners of Merrybrook), stating that as a result of our
input, a group of “Friends of the Laura Ratcliffe House” is
being formed.
|
|
Dec.-06
Jan.-07
|
Spotsylvania:
Success!
BRCWRT and CWPT join a chorus of county residents to successfully
appeal and preserve 74-acres of hallowed ground; 2. Centreville:
“Rice Property” vote by FCBS postponed until Jan 07; 3. Ox
Hill: Interpretation stuck via kiosk problems and Wayside marker
changes. Preservation
Donations for 2006:
$1,926.
|
|
Feb.-07
|
Centreville:
(a) BRCWRT conducts a very well attended tour in Centreville
intended to develop a solid nucleus of informed members for the
upcoming CHOD public hearings, (b) BRCWRT supports FCPS efforts
via letter writing campaign to obtain grant funds for the
acquisition of Civil War sites in historic Centreville; 2. Maureen
Quinn takes a Licensed Battlefield Guide Exam in order to become a
licensed tour guide at the Gettysburg National Battlefield Park;
3. Ox Hill: FCPA shuts down debate and it is agreed that the final
marker texts will be reviewed by BRCWRT for historical accuracy;
5. Merrybrook: Applies for acceptance on the National Registry,
with input and guidance from Mark Knowles.
|
|
Mar.-07
|
Centreville:
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board (FCPAB) authorizes
designated personnel to meet with and make an offer to the owners
of the 3.68 acre “Rice Property” (NVP Inc.); 2. Ox Hill:
Off-site markers are delayed as liability becomes the latest
concern; 3.
John
McAnaw is reviewing the Fairfax County Interpretive Plan; 3.
Soliciting volunteers for Bristoe Station Battlefield, Ben Lomond,
Brentsville, and Ripon Lodge; 4. Merrybrook: Success!
Their application for acceptance on the National Register of
Historical Places is approved. Kudos to the members who provided
input, particularly Mark Knowles, who championed their efforts.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Apr.-07
|
Merrybrook:
Bill Etue details the process that Merrybrook went through to be
placed on National Register of Historic Places; 2. Centreville:
Success!
(a) FCBS unanimously approves a major expansion of the CHOD, (b)
FCBS authorizes the purchase by the county of the entire 3.68-acre
“Rice Property;” 3. Prince William County announces the grand
opening of the recently restored Brentsville Courthouse and
requests assistance and publicity from BRCWRT; 4. Ox Hill: FCPA
alters the interpretive package as reviewers are sent old kiosk
texts.
|
|
May-07
|
Ox
Hill: Site-plan issues, questions, waivers, text review in
progress, and easement change.
|
|
June-07
July-07
|
Merrybrook:
BRCWRT solicits membership to continue providing financial support
for preservation purposes. Award:
Mark
Trbovich is honored as the Prince William County Volunteer of the
Quarter after
logging (200) hours in the authoring/installation of five
additional historical markers in the county.
|
|
Aug.-07
Sept.-07
|
Merrybrook:
BRCWRT requests member participation in the upcoming Open House;
2. Overwhelmingly positive feedback from membership for Hunter
Mill Defense League’s (HMDL) recently released DVD, “Danger
Between the Lines” has proven to be a major motivating factor
for future public showings; 3. Bristoe Station: Solicitation of
volunteers continues as John McAnaw details the grand opening; 4.
Ox Hill: Text is finalized for the interpretive panels and
markers. Design contract signed and scouting for volunteers to
assist.
|
|
Oct.-07
|
Ox
Hill: Historical marker designs are progressing; 2. Bristoe
Station: Grand Opening is announced.
|
|
Nov.-07
|
Solicits
membership to support the reauthorization of the Battlefield
Preservation Act in the House and Senate; 2. Ox Hill: Plan delays
are questioned by Gerry Connelly, Chair, FCBS.
|
|
Dec.-07
Jan.-08
|
Ox Hill:
(a) Markers pass initial test as more are completed, (b) Latest
problem is phosphorous in rainwater. Ed Wenzel continues to
provide input and monitor the situation. Preservation
Donations for
2007: $1,503.
|
|
Feb.-08
|
Ox
Hill: (a) Ed Wenzel leads a BRCWRT-only tour to educate membership
about the recent activities and status of the project, (b) FCPA
receives additional funding of $267,506, (c) Rain water problem
has been reduced, (d) Kiosk panels are near completion, (e)
Off-site markers are funded 2. BRCWRT preservation focus this year
will continue at Bristoe Station, Centreville, MNBP, and Brandy
Station; 3. Bristoe Station: Solicits more members to sign up and
speak at the upcoming PWPC meeting on 19 March, which will address
the proposed development of much of the battlefield south of the
Norfolk-Southern RR tracks east of Rte. 619; 4. CWPT rescued
1,616-acres of hallowed ground in 2007. Kudos to the BRCWRT
membership for their continuing contributions.
|
|
Mar.-08
Apr.-08
|
Ox
Hill: (a) “Rain
Gardens” have been nixed as deemed too expensive, (b)
Conservation easement red tape continues,(c) Off-site markers
now may not be funded; 2. Solicits members to contact Virginia
legislators to request funding of the Virginia Civil War
Battlefield Fund; 4. “Friends of Wilderness Battlefield”
requests BRCWRT members to attend their annual symposium, dinner
and auction. All proceeds go to the Ellwood Restoration Project.
|
|
May-08
|
MNBP:
Ed Clark assumed the duties as Superintendent of the battlefield
on 28 April. 2. Ox Hill: (a) Site work begins this month; (b)
Conservation easement areas are reconfigured, (c) Some site-plan
changes cause surprise, and (d) Off-site markers will now be
funded; 3. Bristoe Station: Success!
Prince William Planning Commission (PWPC) votes unanimously to
recommend denial of a request to rezone 150-acres of the
battlefield for a commercial office and warehouse project. With
developers continuing their quest, BRCWRT solicits membership to
attend and oppose their formal request at the PWCBOS meeting on 6
May; 4. A stark
reminder of what can happen at a valued historical site is
exemplified with the horrible planning and resultant travesty at
the site of Mosby’s Rock off Centreville Road. It was severely
compromised by recent townhouse development resulting in a
tragedy.
|
|
June-08
July-08
|
Bristoe
Station: After a contentious public hearing, PWCBOS votes 7 to 1,
to rezone a 152.5 acre agricultural tract on the southeast side of
the battlefield for a mixed business park. The good news:
approximately 42-acres of the rezoned land is slated to be turned
over to the county and added to the existing Battlefield Heritage
Park at some future date. A hardy
thanks was extended to the BRCWRT members who attended and spoke;
2. Ox Hill: (a) Groundbreaking, (b) Restoration and site-work
underway, (c) Dedication is set for Sept. 1, and (d) New off-site
marker snag. Award:
John McAnaw is honored by the FCPA for his long years of service
as Chairman of the Parks and Lake Committee.
|
|
Aug.-08
Sep.-08
|
Ox
Hill: The
battlefield site-work continues, (b) Park benches cause stir, (c)
Cornfield gets smaller, and (c) Dedication on target for Sept. 1.
|
|
Oct.-08
|
Mark
Trbovich is named President of the Prince William County Historic
Preservation Foundation. Mark lauded BRCWRT for stirring his
interest in historic preservation; 2. Ox Hill: Battlefield
Park finally opens;
ceremony, wreath-laying and artillery cap major interpretive and
restoration efforts. Three hundred (300) attended, of which (20)
were BRCWRT members.
|
|
Nov.-08
|
Ox Hill:
(a) Landscaping begins soon, (b) Bicycle racks are requested, and
(c) Minor errors found on signage; 2. Alert: John Pearson advises
membership that budget woes threaten preservation activities in
Prince William Co.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Dec.-08
Jan.-09
|
Outgoing
president and preservationist extraordinaire, John McAnaw, details
all the Civil War sites that have been identified along Bull Run
in his December lecture. Preservation
Donations for
2008: $1,290.
|
|
Feb.-09
|
Ox
Hill: (a) Work continues as Ed Wenzel monitors everything, (b)
There are plans for a soldiers’ kiosk panel and two or three
off-site markers with the remaining monies, (c) In addition, a
pod-cast audio is in being considered.
|
|
Mar.-09
|
Alert:
regarding upcoming Prince William County 2010 budget hearings.
Anticipating budget shortfalls, continuing attendance and
monitoring is deemed very important, particularly regarding
funding for preservation efforts.
|
|
Apr.-09
|
CWPT
names the Ten Most Endangered Battlefields.
|
|
May-09
|
Merrybrook:
Soliciting membership support and attendance for “An Evening of
Merriment for Merrybrook” in recognition of their preservation
efforts; 2. “Thirty Bags of Trash” article in the newsletter
by Pres. Nancy Anwyll recognizes the evolution and preservation
efforts of BRCWRT since its inception.
|
|
June-09
July-09
|
John
McAnaw, John De Pue, and John Pearson attend a meeting with MNBP
Superintendent Ed Clark regarding the proposed construction of
Dominion Power electric lines.
|
|
Aug.-09
Sept.-09
|
Merrybrook:
An article in the monthly newsletter details the latest
preservation supported via efforts from BRCWRT members; 2. A six
year historic road preservation effort pays off as Jim Lewis,
Steve Hull, Charlie Balch, Bob Eldridge, and Tom Evans (the core
group of five and also associated with the Hunter Mill Defense
League - HMDL) install the first of several planned historical
markers on Hunter Mill Road.
|
|
Oct.-09
|
The
Land Trust of Virginia Board of Directors creates a new fund,
named the “Deborah Whittier Fitts Battlefield Stewardship Fund,”
in memory of the long time Civil War News reporter and wife of
good friend Clark “Bud” Hall. Monies raised will be used to
recognize and provide financial support for landowners interested
in protecting properties where Civil War battles took place; 2.
John Pearson is appointed BRCWRT representative to the Bristoe
Station Battlefield Heritage Park; 3. Dominion Power expands power
lines at MNBP. Nancy Anwyll, sends a letter to Superintendent Ed
Clark expressing appreciation for being kept informed, but deep
disappointment in the inadvertent destruction of a portion of the
Unfinished Railroad. A recommendation is also made to document the
course of events in order to avoid future such actions at the
battlefield.
|
|
Nov.-09
|
Preservation
efforts for historical Hunter Mill Road were solidified as
numerous state and county officials attended and acknowledged the
road’s historic importance during the well-publicized dedication
of six (6) historic markers; 2. Overwhelmingly positive feedback
was received from the public at Centreville Day regarding BRCWRT’s
preservation efforts on behalf on the local citizens.
|
|
Dec.-09
Jan.-10
|
Mosby
Documentary: Chuck Mauro and Don Hakenson begin filming in Fairfax
County.
The objective is to provide needed exposure and incent
preservation efforts for a variety of historic locations via the
Gray Ghost’s exploits in the area. Preservation
Donations for
2009: $1,580.
|
|
Feb.-10
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Mar.-10
|
Great
news: the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) has
received fee simple title to the historic Mount Zion Church, but
not the adjacent cemetery.
|
|
Apr.-10
|
Membership
unanimously approves the 501c3 non-profit application, enabling
tax deductible donations for preservation efforts;
2. Ox Hill: BRCWRT sends a letter to Fairfax County Gov’t.
regarding debris at the park.
|
|
May-10
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
June-10
July-10
|
Brandy
Station: Mike Block is starting a preservation-oriented blog with
numerous BRCWRT members participating.
|
|
Aug.-10
Sept-10
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Oct.-10
|
Donation
of $1,000 for CWPT unanimously approved by membership; 2.
Paperwork for the 501c3 non-profit status submitted; 3. Rob
Orrison named Site Manager of Bristoe Station Battlefield Park and
Ben Lomond Historic Site.; 4. BRCWRT announces raffle to assist
the acquisition of 10-acres at the Second Manassas Battlefield
(Deep Cut).
|
|
Nov.-10
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Dec.–10
Jan.-11
|
Award:
BRCWRT members Steve Hull, Jim Lewis, Charlie Balch, Bob Eldridge,
and Tom Evans, also affiliated with the Hunter Mill Defense League
(HMDL), were honored with the highly esteemed “Ross Netherton
Historians Award” for their acclaimed DVD, “Danger Between the
Lines” by the Fairfax County History Commission (FCHC).
Preservation
Donations for
2010: $1,000.
|
|
Feb.-11
|
BRCWRT
solicits support for the U.S. Christian Commission and its
Gettysburg Chapel.
|
|
Mar.-11
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Apr.-11
|
BRCWRT
is awarded 501c3 status,
enabling tax deductible donations, which will be used for
education and/or preservation purposes.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
May-11
|
Several
BRCWRT members are involved with the “Resident Curator”
program, courtesy of “Friends of Laura Ratcliffe Foundation.”
It’s a public-private partnership intended to create historic
preservation entities in Virginia.
|
|
June-11
July-11
|
BRCWRT
member and preservationist, Beverly Jones Regeimbal passes away.
Her memorial service was appropriately concluded with the singing
of “Dixie.”
|
|
Aug.-11
Sep.-11
|
Sesquicentennial:
BRCWRT receives a thank you letter from the planners of the
nation’s signature “First Manassas” event for the active
involvement and support the membership provided.
|
|
Oct.-11
|
Centerville:
Alert regarding a preservation threat of the Confederate “Super
Battery” site off Stone Road in the Sully District; 2.
Sesquicentennial: Fairfax County History Subcommittee, chaired by
John McAnaw, secures funding for nine markers from the FCBS for
fiscal year 2012; 3. Centreville: Preservation efforts within the
area were given excellent exposure via BRCWRT members supporting
the Centreville Day event.
|
|
Nov.-11
|
Briefing
of PWCBS regarding Centreville and Manassas Junction preservation
of fortifications.
|
|
Dec.-11
Jan.-12
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
Preservation
Donations for
2011: $2,050.
|
|
Feb.-12
|
BRCWRT
solicits members to attend the “Civil War Archaeology
Symposium;” 2. Solicits members who might be interested in
volunteering and/or being a docent at the local Stuart-Mosby Civil
War Cavalry Museum.
|
|
Mar.-12
|
Bristoe
Station: Two park benches are donated to the battlefield Heritage
Park via Rob Orrison on behalf of BRCWRT; 2. Centreville: Success!
The historical trail in the Centreville Historic District (CHOD)
is improved via membership involvement; 3. Bristoe Station:
Solicits members to join the Annual Park Clean-Up Day on March 31.
|
|
Apr.-12
|
Ox
Hill: Paula Elsey details the upcoming sesquicentennial itinerary
and preservation efforts.
|
|
May-12
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
June-12
July-12
|
Don
Hakenson announces the “Stuart-Mosby Civil War Cavalry Museum”
will officially open June 16.
|
|
Aug.-12
Sept.-12
|
Award:
Ed Wenzel receives a CWT Preservation Award via his extensive
commitment to Civil War battlefield preservation, dating back to
the very origins of the modern movement.
|
|
Oct.-12
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Nov.-12
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Dec.-12
Jan.-13
|
Bob
Hickey’s print raffle brings in $1,500 for Ed Wenzel’s epic
chronology.
Preservation
Donations for
2012: $946.
|
|
Feb.-13
|
Tim
Duskin provides an update on the Gettysburg Electric Map as an
excellent example of preservation.
|
|
Mar.-13
|
Listing
of Civil War Blogs & Sites, as well as historical books,
regarding the preservation of valued historic sites.
|
|
Apr.-13
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
May-13
|
Brian
McEnany gathers much needed information at a Howard Coffin lecture
on the Green Mountain boys of the 2nd
Vermont Brigade for a future preservation effort with Jim Lewis at
Wolf Run Shoals in Fairfax County; 2. Soliciting members to
support a web-based contest that Colvin Run Mill is attempting to
win prize monies in order to fully restore the second and third
levels, thereby enabling visitors to see the mill working from top
to bottom. It is being sponsored by the National Trust for
Historic Preservation and American Express; 3. The Digital Public
Library of America is launched, providing researchers and
preservationists much need information via the web.
|
|
June-13
July-13
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Aug.-13
Sept.-13
|
BRCWRT
has agreed to support an all-day tour with “The Friends of Cedar
Mountain Battlefield” (near Culpeper) in order to raise monies
that will be used in the preservation efforts for the battlefield.
|
|
Oct.-13
|
Bristoe
Station: Kudos to Rob Orrison for the excellent sesquicentennial
program. The commemoration has apparently stirred numerous people
to action in support of the preservation efforts at the
battlefield.
|
|
Nov.-13
|
Alert:
regarding the latest casino efforts in Gettysburg. Another letter
writing campaign may be in the offing; 2. Tim Duskin updates the
membership on the Electric Map issues in Hanover; 2. Good News:
CWT announces the preservation of the Jackson House and associated
acreage at Balls Bluff Battlefield via a recent property
acquisition.
|
|
Dec.-13
Jan.-14
|
MNBP:
The National Park Service (NPS) faces a problem with an ever
increasing deer population at MNBP. BRCWRT is soliciting
recommendations. Preservation
Donations for
2013: $602.
|
|
Feb.-14
|
The
“Monitor” lab is being temporarily closed due to a Federal
funding shortfall. Good news: the museum is staying open and
eagerly awaiting Congress’s approval of a new budget. Member
input to their government representatives is welcomed; 2. MNBP:
Excellent preservation story regarding the Winery at Bull Run. Jon
Hickox has renovated the house and property near the Stone Bridge.
Chuck Mauro and Don Hakenson are providing publicity and BRCWRT is
planning an organizational activity in the near future.
|
|
Month
|
Activity
|
|
Mar.-14
|
Bristoe
Station: Alert regarding a church’s request for rezoning the
Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) for conversion of hallowed
ground into a for-profit cemetery. John De Pue, John Person, and
Mark Trbovich presented the details. Membership was encouraged to
express their disapproval to the PWCBOS; 2. With BRCWRT’s 25th
anniversary coming up as of May 2016, E.B. Vandiver begins
recruiting members to join a “Silver Anniversary Committee,”
in order to document the vast array of efforts and activities
performed over its 25-years of history.
|
|
Apr.-14
|
Bristoe
Station: With membership all set to attend and speak the PWCBS
public hearing, the church withdrew its rezoning application
amendment “with leave to resubmit it at a later date.”
BRCWRT’s Executive Committee is closely monitoring the evolving
situation and will keep the membership appraised of developments;
2. The efforts to restore the Brentsville Jail have fallen short
of financial goals. Additional contributions are solicited.
|
|
May-14
|
Bristoe
Station: Even with the church’s rezoning application being
pulled (temporarily), it is still deemed prudent for members to
continue to contact the PWCBS with their views; 2. Numerous
upcoming preservation-oriented programs are listed in this month’s
newsletter.
|
|
June-14
July-14
|
BRCWRT
nominates “The Wilderness Battlefield” for the 2014 Virginia
Most Endangered Historic Sites list; 2. Bristoe Station: The
rezoning situation is updated and detailed.
|
|
Aug.-14
Sept.-14
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Oct.-14
|
Appreciation
expressed to Bob Hickey for his tireless annual raffle efforts
over the years that have raised monies for worthy historical
efforts by BRCWRT; 2. Official Records of the Union &
Confederate Navies are now digitized.
|
|
Nov.-14
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Dec.-14
Jan.-15
|
Exec.
Committee participates in a brainstorming session at the historic
Winery at Bull Run Winery regarding post-sesquicentennial
direction for BRCWRT, including future events, preservation
efforts, etc. A survey will be sent to membership requesting their
input is the next step; 2. Kim Brace creates a digital map of
where our members are located, which will be inserted into the
25th
Anniversary booklet. Preservation
Donations for
2014: $1,760.
|
|
Feb.-15
|
C-Span
recorded good friend Dave Goetz’s “Hell is Being a Republican
in Virginia” presentation. Multiple replays are shown throughout
the month, along with a short commentary about local history and
preservation efforts; 2. The need to preserve historic sites was a
primary message at the Lee-Jackson-Maury Birthday Commemoration in
Richmond, Va. 3. Membership is solicited to support the efforts by
“Stuart-Mosby Historical Society of Centreville, Va.” to
repair and restore Gen. Stuart’s statue in Richmond, Va.
Estimated cost is $35K.
|
|
Mar.-15
|
E.B.
Vandiver reluctantly has had to step down as chair of the 25th
Anniversary committee. Jim Lewis and Brian McEnany agreed to
co-chair the project going forward; 2. President Mark Trbovich
urges members to take the time to e-mail the PWCBS in support of
the Historic Preservation Division funding for the Fiscal Year
2015.
|
|
Apr.-15
|
Reinforcing
the importance of preservation, BRCWRT members walked in a
footsteps of history tour at Wolf Run Shoals, led by Jim Lewis,
Brian and Kim Brace; 3. Dr. Charles Poland, instructor at Northern
Virginia Community College (NOVA) and a great friend of the Civil
War community, is retiring in June. He is being honored by the
school by being chosen to present its annual Legacy Lecture on the
Annandale campus..
|
|
May-15
|
President
Mark Trbovich extends his thanks to the membership for their
support over the past four years of the Sesquicentennial
Commemoration festivities. Everyone agreed that it brought much
needed attention to preservation efforts everywhere; 2.
Centreville: CHOD has come under a new threat via the proposed
realignment of Leland Road. BRCWRT is already researching the
consequences and feedback is imminent to the membership.
|
|
June-15
July-15
|
Centreville:
The Round Table is maintaining vigilance regarding the Leland Rd.
extension; 2. Bristoe Station: Mark Trbovich, John De Pue, and
John Pearson toured the battlefield with new Brentsville
Supervisor, Jeanine Lawson. Award:
John McAnaw was named “Lord Fairfax” by the FBOS for, amongst
other endeavors, his tireless preservation efforts in Fairfax
County.
|
|
Aug.-15
Sept.-15
|
Centreville:
Members are solicited to attend the Sept. 30 FCPB (Planning Board)
meeting regarding the cancellation of the Leland Rd. extension.
|
|
Oct.-15
|
Bristoe
Station: No update on the “Kirkland’s Charge” land
preservation effort.
|
|
Nov.-15
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
|
|
Dec.-15
Jan.-16
|
No
preservation activity mentioned in newsletter.
Preservation
Donations for
2015: $?
|
|
Feb.-16
|
|
|
Mar.-16
|
|
|
Apr.-16
|
|
|
|
|