Overland 150th -- The Battle of Totopotomoy Creek

Click here for information about the park's other Overland 150th programs.

 

Programs at Rural Plains

Unless otherwise noted, exact program times are to be determined and all times are subject to change. Parking for evening programs will be at Rural Point Elementary School and shuttles will bring visitors to the park. Please check the website for updated information before coming to the park.

Thursday, May 29:

An Overview of the Battle of Totopotomoy Creek

Brief overview tours throughout the day will explore the story of Battle of Totopotomoy Creek, especially actions that took place at Rural Plains.

7:30pm to 8:45pm: "Defiant Sheltons: The Story of a Virginia Family Caught Between the Lines"

Explore the story of the Shelton household as the armies arrived on their doorstep and their home became a military outpost and target during three days of battle along Totopotomoy Creek.

Friday, May 30:

An Overview of the Battle of Totopotomoy Creek

Brief overview tours throughout the day will explore the story of Battle of Totopotomoy Creek, especially actions that took place at Rural Plains.

6:00pm to 6:30pm: The Battle of Totopotomoy Creek: Prelude to Cold Harbor

Dr. Bob Bluford, who is authoring a new book on the Battle of Totopotomoy Creek, will discuss the battle that immediately preceded the Battle of Cold Harbor.

6:45pm to 8:15pm: Action Along Totopotomoy Creek on May 30, 1864

Kicking off with artillery fire, this ranger-led tour will explore the action along the Totopotomoy late on May 30, 1864, at the time and in the place where it happened, including the Confederate artillery assault on the Shelton House at Rural Plains, which served as a Union signal station.

Saturday, May 31:

9:00am to 11:00am: "In the Footsteps of Robert Robertson"

Lt. Robert Robertson of the 93rd New York Infantry served near the Shelton House during the Battle of Totopotomoy Creek and was seriously wounded on May 31. He recorded in his diary his experience at Rural Plains during the fighting along the Totopotomoy. This ranger-led tour will explore Lt. Robertson's experience at the time and in the place where his story unfolded. It will involve two hours of walking over uneven and rough terrain. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.

An Overview of the Battle of Totopotomoy Creek

Brief overview tours throughout the day will explore the story of Battle of Totopotomoy Creek, especially actions that took place at Rural Plains.