Tenting Tonight on the Old Campground: 19th Virginia Infantry Living History

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

Nov. 8, 2026. 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Experience American Civil War history firsthand as soldiers of the 19th Virginia Infantry establish a period encampment at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park and invite the public to step into the daily life of a soldier on campaign in 1865.

Visitors will have the opportunity to observe demonstrations of the manual of arms, infantry drills, firing positions, and other military trainings. Throughout the weekend, the soldiers will also prepare meals, conduct camp activities, and demonstrate the routines and experiences of Confederate infantry life during the final months of the Civil War.

This living-history program offers a unique look at both the demanding and often remarkably mundane aspects of military life on campaign. Through demonstrations and informal camp activities, visitors can gain a better understanding of the daily experiences of soldiers in 1865.

All programs and demonstrations will take place at the Hillsman House.

Program Schedule

Saturday
9:00 a.m. — Camps open to the public
10:00 a.m. — Program and demonstration
12:00 p.m. — Program and demonstration
2:00 p.m. — Program and demonstration

Sunday
9:00 a.m. — Camps open to the public
10:00 a.m. — Program and demonstration
12:00 p.m. — Program and demonstration

Visitor Information

This event is free and open to the public and is suitable for families. Leashed pets are welcome.

Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and to dress appropriately for rapidly changing and unpredictable weather conditions. In the event of inclement weather, portions of the program may be modified or canceled. Come experience history as the 19th Virginia Infantry brings the sights, sounds, routines, and challenges of an American Civil War encampment to life at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield.

For additional information, please contact Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park at 804-561-7510 or Joshua Lindamood at Joshua.Lindamood@dcr.virginia.gov.

Other details

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