Manassas National Battlefield Park
On May 10, 1940, Secretary of the Interior Harold L. Ickes officially designated Manassas National Battlefield Park to commemorate the Civil War battles of First and Second Manassas. Located in the picturesque Piedmont Region of Virginia, the park spans 5,071 acres across Prince William and Fairfax counties, approximately 25 miles west of Washington, D.C.
Unlike many other Civil War battlefields, Manassas National Battlefield Park was designated as a national park later in history and contains relatively few commemorative monuments. This distinction provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the complex relationship between Civil War history, political action, and commemoration. The park's well-preserved vistas and unspoiled views offer a rare glimpse into the past, allowing for a deep appreciation and interpretation of history.
During the First Battle of Manassas, curious spectators, including congressmen, traveled from Washington in carriages, bringing picnic baskets to watch the conflict. This scene reflected the nation's early, romanticized expectations of war. In stark contrast, the Battle of Second Manassas saw civilians fleeing the area as the devastation unfolded. The Confederate victory in 1862, just 13 months after the First Manassas, marked the peak of their power. This second Union defeat culminated in Robert E. Lee's bold Northern Virginia Campaign, shifting the war's focus from Richmond to the outskirts of Washington, D.C., and paving the way for Lee's first invasion of the North.
Today, Manassas National Battlefield Park stands as a place of commemoration and solemnity. It protects the battlefield landscape, historic structures, museum collections, and archaeological resources that provide tangible links to the events of the First and Second Manassas battles. These elements serve as a physical record of the people who experienced the Civil War firsthand. The park's commitment to preserving its natural resources and addressing the challenges of urban sprawl offers valuable environmental education experiences related to national park preservation.
Excerpts paraphrased from Foundation Document Overview, Manassas National Battlefield Park, Virginia
Manassas National Battlefield Park features over 40 miles of trails for horse riders and pedestrians, allowing visitors to explore the historic landscape at their own pace. These trails wind through key battlefield sites, offering experiences and unique perspectives of the battles that took place here.
The Park is dedicated to ongoing conservation efforts. It manages and protests numerous historic structures and monuments and protects a diverse ecosystem, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands, which support a variety of wildlife.
The National Park Service’s commitment to preservation and education provides valuable historical and environmental learning opportunities for the American Public. Through guided tours, educational programs, and special events, the Park continues to bring the history of the Civil War to life, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of this pivotal period in American History.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, avid runner, or seeking a peaceful retreat, Manassas National Battlefield Park offers something for everyone.
Visitor Center, Museum and Gift Shop
6511 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA 20109
The Henry Hill Visitor Center hosts the Park’s bookstore, offers exhibits, and a film. Most tours depart from here.