BRCWRT TOUR:

Follow the Union 2nd Corps Through Northern Virginia
On The Way To Gettysburg

Do to overwhelming demand, this tour has been closed to new sign ups. Maneuvering too large a group of cars over remote roads would jeopardize the planned pace (straggling is not tolerated).

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Follow the Union 2nd Corps during the Gettysburg Campaign on its way from the Occoquan to the Potomac River and crossing at Edwards Ferry. Experience the march northwards while trying to endure the excessive summer heat in mid-June 1863. See the old towns and villages through which the 2nd Corps passed and the fields where they encamped. Learn about Hooker’s plan to defend Washington while also being pressured to locate and pursue Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia. Finally, stand on today’s private land where the pontoon bridges were installed and 100,000 men crossed the Potomac River in two days. 

The route covers about 60 miles from Wolf Run Shoals to Edwards Ferry. The tour will last until approximately 3:30 P.M.  Walking requirements include a five-minute walk over an uneven forest path to the Occoquan River.  Lunch will be available in local restaurants. For questions regarding the tour, please contact Brian McEnany 703-734-1936, or Jim Lewis 703-620-2956.

MARCHING ORDERS:

DATE: Saturday, 8 August, 2009

TIME: 8:15 A.M. for a departure at 8:30 A.M.

ASSEMBLY LOCATION:  The Burke Centre Automotive Goodyear store in the Burke Centre Shopping Plaza (Burke Center) at the intersection of Route 123 and Burke Centre Parkway in Burke, Virginia. (Click for map!)** The Goodyear store address is: 5665 Burke Center Pkwy, Burke, Va. 22015-2228. Look for the group in a parking area to the left of the store. Rest rooms are available in a nearby McDonalds, but are limited on route. We will consolidate cars and proceed to the first stop then return to our cars at Burke Center to continue the tour. **(At the bottom of the map is a link called "View Larger Map". Try that, then use your BACK button to return here)

TOUR DURATION:  8:30 A.M. until approximately 3:30 P.M.
The route covers about 60 miles from Wolf Run Shoals to Edwards Ferry.

LUNCH: There are a number of fast food restaurants just off Route 7 before we get to Edwards Ferry.

EXERTION: We will hike for approximately 0.5 miles on an uneven forest path at the first stop. Wear comfortable shoes, a cap, and long pants/jeans. The last stop will require a short walk on pavement to the Edwards Ferry site. We will be near water at the first and last stops, so it is advisable to bring water, sun screen and insect repellent at these stops.

INCLEMENT WEATHER: A weather cancellation notice will be sent via e-mail the morning of the tour. Those without email service should call Brian McEnany or Jim Lewis for an update.

CHIEF TOUR GUIDES:
Brian McEnany (703) 973-7892 (cell) or bmcenany@cox.net
Jim Lewis (703) 593-2956 (cell) or antietam1862@verizon.net.