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Petersburg National BattlefieldIllustration of Union soldiers advancing on Ft. Stedman
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Petersburg National Battlefield
City Under Siege
 

Why was Petersburg a target for the Union army during the Civil War? Discover the "power of place" in these lesson plans, which focus on why people choose to settle in certain areas and the significance of transportation to the success of a city. Finally, discover the importance of supplying an army in the field, and how difficult it can be in the midst of a war.

Pre-Visit Lesson Plan

Post-Visit Lesson Plan

Former Slaves at City Point, Virginia  

Did You Know?
Slaves who entered Union lines and came to City Point, Virginia (present day Hopewell) during the Siege of Petersburg, were typically employed unloading ships and working in the hospitals. (Petersburg National Battlefield)

Last Updated: September 18, 2007 at 15:40 EST