Historic black and white photo of a partially inflated hydrogen balloon with the word "intrepid".

Gaines' Mill From Above and Below

Richmond National Battlefield Park

Special Event
  • May 30, 2026 at 10:00 AM
  • Free
The 1862 battle of Gaines' Mill was the largest in Virginia up to that time. Both sides used new technology, such as balloons for observation, machine guns, repeating weapons, and more. Park staff and re-enactors will demonstrate the Confederate attack formations used in the battle, and lead a special walking tour focused on new technology.
 
Weapons Demonstrations at 10 am and 2 pm. Meet at the Mississippi Monument on Watt House Road.
 
Walking tour begins at the Watt House (6283 Watt House Road, Mechanicsville) at 11 am. The walking tour is one and a half hours and will cover 1.5 miles over uneven terrain. Good shoes, water, and bug spray are recommended.
 
Program is free.

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

6283 Watt House Road Mechanicsville, VA 23111

Latitude and Longitude 37.579868, -77.290632

Schedule

Date:

May 30, 2026

Time:

10:00 AM

Weapons Demonstrations at 10 am and 2 pm, Walking tour at 11 am.

Contact Information

Bert Dunkerly

Contact Us

Event Type

  • Cultural/Craft Demonstration
  • Guided Tour
  • Hike
  • Living History
  • Talk
  • Walk