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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 10, 2024
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov

160th Battle of the Bridge Anniversary to be celebrated at Staunton River Battlefield State Park
Experience many activities and live demonstrations during this two-day event

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Staunton River Battlefield State Park Bridge)

RANDOLPH, Va. – Staunton River Battlefield State Park will celebrate the 160th anniversary of the battle of the Staunton River Bridge with an action-packed two-day event.

This event will be held Friday, June 21 from 7 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, June 22 from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m.

“On Friday, we will open the festivities with a campfire program immediately followed by a night-time artillery firing demonstration at 8:30 p.m.,” said Virginia State Park Natural Resource Specialist Joshua Lindamood. “This event has something for the entire family. Whether you are a novice or avid historian, there are many options to explore and experience history.”

On Saturday, members of the 2nd United States Cavalry, the 51st Virginia Infantry, and the Staunton Hill Artillery, will provide firing, manual of arms, and tactical demonstrations for the public at 3 p.m. (Cavalry), 4 p.m. (Infantry), and 5 p.m. (Artillery). The event will conclude at 6 p.m. with a campfire program.

In addition to the military camps being open to the public, there will be Civil War miniature dioramas, "construct a fort" sand station, toys and games, and food available for purchase provided by the Historic Staunton River Foundation. There will be period dressed public historians, military camps, historic weapons firing demonstrations, dioramas, games, food, campfire historical programs and so much more.

“This anniversary is special because the further time allows us to distance ourselves from these historic events, the more impactful these educational programs become,” said Lindamood. “The potential is here to really grab hold of the memories by the participants that hallowed this space, and it is up to us to seize that moment and choose individually how it touches us.”

This event will be held rain or shine, but please note that some demonstrations will be altered if there is inclement weather.

For more information about the event, visit the park’s webpage.

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