Across America, the very places where our Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War soldiers fought for our nation are disappearing.
Right now, 74 acres at three historic battlefields in Arkansas and Virginia are at risk of being lost forever to development. But if we act quickly, we can protect them permanently.
Here's what's currently at stake:
Pea Ridge, Arkansas – 3 acres
This will be our first preservation here, right next to Pea Ridge National Military Park. In March 1862, Union forces secured a critical victory that helped keep Missouri in the Union. Without protection, this tract could be lost to large-scale home construction.Deep Bottom, Virginia – nearly 6 acres
Just 600 feet from surviving Civil War fortifications, this land saw six Union brigades surge forward in August 1864, two of them under heavy fire. Confederate counterattacks pushed them back across this very ground — land now targeted for development.Saltville, Virginia – 65 acres
The site of two Civil War battles, Saltville was home to the South’s most important saltworks — essential to preserving food for the Confederate army. On October 2, 1864, the 5th U.S. Colored Cavalry fought uphill under a “terrific fire” to capture enemy rifle pits. This history remains on the landscape — but not for long if developers get their way.
Once this land is developed, its history will be lost forever.
From the slopes where the 5th U.S. Colored Cavalry charged under fire, to the fields where Union brigades fought at Deep Bottom, to the ridgeline of Pea Ridge — these hallowed places must be preserved.
In total, this is four tracts at three battlefields in two states — irreplaceable pieces of our nation’s story. We need to raise the final $245,500 to secure them forever.
Once bulldozers arrive, this hallowed ground will be gone forever. Please help us protect it now.
With gratitude,
David N. Duncan, President
American Battlefield Trust