A huge part of our efforts at American Battlefield Trust are dedicated to acquiring sacred battlefield land and declaring "Victory!", but that is only half the battle. In many instances, we are required to restore land before we transfer it to our government and nonprofit partners.
The restoration process requires more than simply bulldozing the structures and clearing the debris. There are wells that need to be filled, septic fields to be cleared and decontaminated, overhead and underground wires that must be removed… And then the land needs to be regraded and returned to its wartime appearance.
We need your help restoring six historic battlefield sites with time-sensitive deadlines:
Gettysburg – Tract 1 (Estimated cost: $44,800)
Gettysburg – Tract 2 (Estimated cost: $34,000)
Chancellorsville (Estimated cost: $30,000)
White Oak Road (Estimated cost: $40,000)
Seven Pines (Estimated cost: $40,000)
Globe Tavern (Estimated cost: $25,000)
The total estimated cost for these restoration projects is $213,800.
A map of the Battle at Gettysburg and the location of the two structures that need to be removed.
Two restoration sites are at Gettysburg. They stand on the Baltimore Pike and disrupt the historic landscape. As you know, troops moved up and down the Baltimore Pike before, after, and during the battle. On July 2, Union cannons were positioned just west of the thoroughfare and sent shells screaming overhead to support forces on nearby Culp's Hill. Both structures are within the interior lines of the battlefield, on lands that you have fought to save.
Another structure is in the heart of Jackson's flank attack at Chancellorsville. Now, after decades, we have the chance to remove it and restore that portion of the battlefield.
Perhaps the most glaring need involves Seven Pines. The post-war structure there is — to be frank — a decrepit hazard. Part of it is falling down. It's dangerous and needs to come down before it becomes a liability.
Our task is not complete. We must keep fighting – until the land is fully restored.
Can we count on you to help us secure the $213,800 needed in the next 30 days? If we can get 4,000 members to respond with a gift of $53.45, we'll reach our goal!
Donate today to make an important investment in preserving American history.
'Til the battle is won,
David N. Duncan
President
American Battlefield Trust