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Contact: Stephanie Pooler, 804-240-9349
Richmond, Va.— On Saturday, June 7 and Sunday, June 8, Richmond National Battlefield Park invites the public to experience the 161st Anniversary of the Battle of Cold Harbor, site of the 1864 battle between the United States and Confederate armies. This year’s event features living history demonstrations, including a recreation of Ulysses S. Grant’s encampment, guided ranger- led programs and family friendly hands-on activities for all ages. Visitors to this free event should begin at the Cold Harbor Battlefield Visitor Center, 5515 Anderson Wright Drive, Mechanicsville, VA, 23111.
By the summer of 1864, United States and Confederate armies were exhausted. Three years of sporadic fighting had culminated in a month of nonstop battle in May. In three weeks, more than 50,000 Federal and 25,000 Confederate soldiers fell at Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and North Anna River before the armies met again at Cold Harbor. With so many soldiers and leaders already killed, many wondered if the armies could keep fighting. Approaching Cold Harbor, the armies of the Civil War were reaching their breaking point. Join us on June 7 and 8 for an event remembering the battle and the toll it took on the weary soldiers who mustered the strength to attack and defend here.
On Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can view living history, artillery and rifle demonstrations throughout the day. The first artillery demonstration and ranger program begins at 10 a.m. “Surviving Cold Harbor,” in-depth walking tour with a park historian begins at the visitor center at 11a.m. Visitors may walk through encampments throughout the day, interacting with living history reenactors. Confederate reenactors will demonstrate battle tactics that were unique to Cold Harbor using the trenches. Children (and kids at heart) can join rangers to explore the Overland Campaign with hands-on exhibits, toys and games. Children can earn a Junior Ranger pin by completing the Overland Campaign Junior Ranger booklet.
The event continues Sunday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can view living history, artillery, and rifle demonstrations. The first artillery demonstration and ranger program will begin at 10 a.m. At 10:30 a.m. reenactors present “Drafted into the Army” a presentation about drafts during war. “Surviving Cold Harbor,” an in-depth walking tour at 2 p.m. begins at visitor center with a park historian. Family friendly activities ongoing throughout the day, including educational interactive exhibits and Junior Ranger booklets and pins. For a full list of the weekend’s events, visit us online at Richmond National Battlefield Park. In the event of inclement weather, the park will post updates at www.Facebook.com/RichmondNPS.
Last updated: May 7, 2025