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Mar 15, 2019

Historic Sites in Manassas VA

Manassas, Virginia, is a city full of interesting history. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the historical sites in the area. Check out a few of the most interesting historical sites.

Manassas National Battlefield Park

In July of 1861, the Manassas National Battlefield Park was the site of one of the most memorable Union and Confederate battles, overlooking Bull Run. A similar battle then took place in the same location in August of 1862. Today, you can explore the park and its many important historical places.

The Stone Bridge is just one of the iconic places and was built in 1825. The bridge played an important role in each of the Bull Run battles. You can view one of the living history performances throughout the summer months or take a guided tour of the grounds year-round. The Manassas National Battlefield Park is also open for outdoor recreation including fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking.

Barnes House

The Barnes House was once home to Eppa Barnes, a freed slave, and his family. The initial construction of the house dates back to 1797 but it has since been moved to its current location. The house still has its original white siding which was a common sight during the Civil War times.

Currently, the Barnes House is undergoing a major restoration project and hard-hat tours are available to the public. Little is known about Eppa Barnes and his family but the city will honor his legacy by preserving and restoring the Barnes House.

Ben Lomond Historic Site

The Ben Lomond Historic Site acted as a hospital during the Civil War. This hands-on experience will transform you and give you a glimpse into life during the mid-1800s. Although the Ben Lomond house was originally designed as a tobacco plantation, it had to be redesigned to a hospital after the nearby battle of Bull Run.

Today, you can still view some of the original medical tools that were used back then. The loud cannon booms, soldiers’ cries, and the same food that was served to patients will give you one of the most immersive Civil War experiences possible.

Cannon Branch Fort

There is still some confusion around who built the Cannon Branch Fort but history professionals believe it was the Union troops in 1863-1864. It is likely that this fort was used to defend necessary battle supplies along the railroad during the Civil War times.

The Cannon Branch Fort is also made up of unique archeology including fire-cracked rock, quartz, quartzite flakes, and quartz spear points. These historical artifacts indicate that the fort may have also been used by Native Americans. The fort has been restored and is available for public tours from sunrise until sunset every day.

Manassas, Virginia, played an important role during the Civil War. Get to know the local history and check out some of the local historical houses or take a stroll through the destination of the famous Bull Run battle of the Civil War.

 

Image by ManassasNPS is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0