We parked the RV at the Thousand Rails RV Park in Lynchburg VA and set out to take a journey through American History in nearby Appomattox. It is a small town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, so obviously the area is beautiful. Appomattox is best known as the site of the surrender of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia to the Union Army on April 9, 1865. This event effectively ended the American Civil War. Our daytrip took in the National Park, the Battlefield and the Civil War Museum.
The town of Appomattox was founded in 1845, but the area has a much longer history. The Appomattox River, which flows through the town, was named after the Appomattoc Native American tribe, who lived in the area for centuries. The tribe was eventually absorbed into the Powhatan Confederacy, but their name lives on in the name of the river and the town.
During the Civil War, Appomattox was a strategic location. It was located on the Southside Railroad, which was a major supply line for the Confederate army. The town was also the site of several battles, including the Battle of Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865.
On that day, Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Union General Ulysses S. Grant. The surrender took place at the McLean House, which is now a museum. The surrender of Lee's army effectively ended the Civil War.
Today, Appomattox is a popular tourist destination. The town is home to the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, which preserves the site of the surrender. The park also includes the McLean House, as well as other buildings that were important during the Civil War.
Appomattox is a reminder of a dark time in American history, but it is also a symbol of hope. The surrender of Lee's army marked the beginning of the end of the Civil War, and it helped to bring the country together. Appomattox is a place where people can learn about the past and reflect on the importance of peace and reconciliation.
Our daytrip was very enlightening and filled with additional facts about the history of Appomattox, Virginia.
The town was originally named "Nebraska" in 1855.
The Appomattox Court House National Historical Park was established in 1935.
The park covers an area of 2.773 square miles.
The McLean House, where Lee surrendered to Grant, is now a museum.
Appomattox is a popular tourist destination, with over 400,000 visitors each year.
We hope you enjoyed this blog post about the history of Appomattox. Please take a few minutes and watch our Youtube video of the experience.
If you are ever in the area, we encourage you to visit the town and learn more about its rich history. However, you might try to find a different campground...but that's another story altogether.
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