From Cannons to Conservation

Location of Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Hillsman House
Main Park Address: Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park, 6541 Saylers Creek Rd., Rice, VA 23966.

When

June 21, 2026. 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Join us as we discover how Sailor’s Creek transformed from an American Civil War battlefield into a protected public landscape as we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation! This interpretive program explores what happened here in 1865, how the land was used after the war, and why Virginians ultimately chose to preserve it as a state park. Learn how ideas of conservation, public access, and stewardship shaped this site, and how those choices matter today.

Participants are encouraged to bring a chair and water bottle, as program will be held outside. Program will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m. outside of the Hillsman House and is subject to cancellation should bad weather occur.

For questions and more information, please contact Gracie Swartout at Gracie.Swartout@dcr.virginia.gov.

About DCR's 100th Anniversary
A century of protecting Virginia’s natural and cultural treasures

On March 17, 1926, the Virginia General Assembly passed landmark legislation establishing the State Commission on Conservation and Development, planting the seeds for what would become today’s Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

Now, a century later, we celebrate 100 years of protecting, preserving and enhancing the natural and cultural resources that make Virginia extraordinary. Learn more.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 804-561-7510
Email Address: SailorsCreek@dcr.virginia.gov