fredericksburg va tour

Fredericksburg

Lower Caroline Street (the 100-300 blocks) is one of the most prestigious residential neighborhoods in Fredericksburg’s 40-block National Historic District. It has been home to prominent figures locally, as well as in Virginia’s and our nation’s history. Lower Caroline’s stately dwellings have pedigrees that stretch as far back as 1764, yet they exist harmoniously with modern additions to the street. Its handsome line-up of homes is distinguished by diverse architectural styles and well-manicured historic landscapes, several of which front the tranquil Rappahannock River. With the encouragement of a residential bulb enthusiast, this corner of the city boasts an impressive display of spring tulips, which will delight Historic Garden Week visitors.

• Date Tuesday April 23, 2024 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Host The Rappahannock Valley Garden Club
• Price $40 pp in advance or $50 pp day-of at VAGWrdenweek.org

Questions? [email protected]

Thank you to our Sponsors

Gemini 3 Group, Inc.

Atlantic Union Bank Barbara and Curtis Backus C&F Bank Cindy and Tim Hughes

Lewis Insurance Associates Mr. and Mrs. William J. Lynch, Jr. Mary Washington Healthcare Jubilation by Silver Companies

Richmond and Rennie McDaniel Dr. and Mrs. Lloyd F. Moss, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Lloyd F. Moss, III Betsy Sale, Garden Works and Design, LLC

Shore United Bank

Erma and Brian Baker Bloomia USA City of Fredericksburg Crown Jewelers/Jewel Box

Karen and Rob Hedelt Huber Motor Cars Lana King Mary Jane O'Neill

Kitty Farley and Vic Ramoneda

Announcements

•  Historic Garden Week Tickets - Available now!
•  FLOWER Magazine Historic Garden Week Statewide Pass Promotion
•  Frequently Asked Questions about Historic Garden Week
•  Garden Club of Virginia Economic Impact Brochure
•  Suggested Plant Material List and Flower Arranging Tips

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Media inquiries, general information and logistics: Karen Ellsworth, Historic Garden Week State Director and Editor of the Guidebook [email protected] or 804-644-7776 , Ext. 21

Historic Garden Week Guidebook advertising, general information and logistics: Terri Lowman, Historic Garden Week Marketing and Program Coordinator. [email protected] or 804-644-7776 , Ext. 22

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Providing Carriage Tours since 2011, serving over 40,000 plus customers!

Season begings first weekend in April!

​ Explore, "Don't Just Think About History, Experience It!"

We provide Horse-Drawn Sightseeing Tours, H istorical, Cultural and Ghost Tours. 

Special Events, Private Car riage Rides and Wedding Services

Remember, "If you don't take a carriage tour, then you didn't see the town in style and comfort!"  

Why We Are The Best

Professional trained guides!

Olde Towne Carriages is the longest running carriage tour company in Fredericksburg, VA! Come tour historic downtown Fredericksburg horse-drawn carriage with some of the most experienced coachmen in the carriage industry.

We have been a family owned and operated company since 2011.  We have worked hard to provide the best tours in the city and pride ourselves on providing authentic and historically rich tours of Fredericksburg, VA that your family and friends will remember for years to come!

The popularity of our tours have grown since 2011. We offer speciality rides such as, Garden, Historical and Ghost Tours. Our chartered rides include Private Evening Rides and Holiday Family Rides, i.e. Our Jingle Bell Rides. 

The quality of the staff, the remarkable record of animal care, and the thousands of satisfied customers all stand testament to an outstanding product; a product that they stand behind 100%.

Though Fredericksburg, VA no longer need to be licensed, we hold our guides to a higher standard. All of our tour guides are certified through out company to ensure your tour is accurate, authentic, and the fun affair you expect from a pro​fessional tour company.

R​ eliable Booking System

We use a reputable booking software to manage real time bookings. You can book our historical tours and rides with ease. 

Customer portal for management of you activity!

​ World Class Service ────

We have mature, professional and educated tour guides. We are locals and can help you navigate the City! Also, not only do they know their history and city culture they are all horsemen. 

Awesome Horses  ────

We know how important our horses are to our company, they get top notch care!  All of our horses go through extensive training.

Our horses have a total checkup 4 X a year.  

Just Some Fun!

​special  froze​n rides.

Tour Fredericksburg-Area Battlefields in One Day

If you have one day for this trip, spend it exploring the recently restored Sunken Road sector of the Fredericksburg Battlefield, site of one of the most lopsided victories of the Civil War; and also stop by the Chancellorsville Battlefield visitor center, site of the wounding of Confederate General Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson. 

Before you go:

• Print or download the  Tour Map .
• Watch the  Fredericksburg Animated Map .
• Watch the Chancellorsville Animated Map . 
• Download the  Fredericksburg Battle App , for more detail and touring assistance.
• Download the Chancellorsville Battle App , for more detail and touring assistance. 

Stop #1 Fredericksburg Battlefield 

Time: 2-4 hours  Details:  www.nps.gov/frsp/index

The Battle of Fredericksburg was one of the most lopsided victory for Confederate General Robert E. Lee. From December 11-15, 1862, the Federal Army of the Potomac attempted to dislodge Lee's army from the fortified heights on the west and south sides of the city of Fredericksburg. Although the Federals did manage to breakthrough Lee's right flank, the success was short lived, and the Confederate position held strong for the remainder of the battle. 

What to do: 

Start at the National Park Service Visitor Center .

• Watch the 22-minute orientation film. 
• Find out what Ranger Programs are scheduled.
• See the exhibits and walk the historic Sunken Road.
• Stop by the Fredericksburg City Visitor Center to find out about all the great local attractions.

Tour the battlefield. You have several options: 

• Follow the NPS Auto Tour Route and get out and explore each stop.
• Purchase a touring CD from the bookstore. 
• Use the Civil War Trust's free  Fredericksburg Battle App  on your smart phone.

Don't miss:

• The Sunken Road – The focal point of seven Federal assaults throughout December 13, Confederate soldiers from Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia integrated an existing stonewall and well-worn road into their defensive line, threw back every wave. By the end of the day some 30,000 Union soldiers attacked the Confederate line here, nearly 1 in 3 of those soldiers became a casualty. 
• Chatham  – This Georgian style plantation served as a Federal artillery platform, hospital, and headquarters. Famous visitors to the home include George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Clara Barton, and Dr. Mary Walker. 
• The Slaughter Pen Farm  – The site of one of the greatest preservation victories by the Civil War Trust, this 208-acre site witnessed vicious fighting on the afternoon of December 13. No less than five Federal soldiers were presented with the Medal of Honor for their actions in and around this field. 
• Fredericksburg National Cemetery  – The final resting place of 15,243 Union soldiers from the camps and four battlefields of the Fredericksburg area. 

If you have time:

• Visit Prospect Hill, which was General Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson's position throughout the battle. 
• Take a battlefield hike on one of Fredericksburg's trails . See your NPS touring map for locations. 
• Visit downtown Fredericksburg and learn about the often overlooked street fighting that took place on December 11, 1862.
• Do what strikes your fancy. Fredericksburg is a battlefield on which you could spend countless hours and never do the same thing twice. Explore what interests you! 

Insider tip: For local bar-b-q, try Allman's Bar-B-Q ; for famous local custard, try  Carl's .

Stop #2 Chancellorsville Battlefield 

The Battle of Chancellorsville is regarded by many as Robert E. Lee's greatest victory. From April 29-May 6, 1863, Lee's army battled General Joseph Hooker's Federal Army of the Potomac around the wilderness crossroads of Chancellorsville. Although outnumbered more than 2-to-1, Lee split his undersized no less than three times in the face of a superior foe. Through daring and boldness Lee's men out fought and outmaneuvered Hooker's army. In the end Lee was victorious, but it came at a high cost. Nearly 22% of Lee's army lined the casualty list. The Confederates lost 64 of 130 regimental commanders. And Stonewall Jackson was wounded on the dark battlefield by his own men, and died of pneumonia on May 10, 1863. Chancellorsville was Lee's last offensive battlefield victory. 

• See the exhibits and walk the "Wounding of Stonewall Jackson," trail.
• Use the Civil War Trust's free  Chancellorsville Battle App  on your smart phone.
• First Day Battlefield — The Battle of Chancellorsville kicked into high gear on the late morning of May 1, 1863. Confederate forces under the commander of Stonewall Jackson, struck one of the three Federal columns marching toward the Confederate rear at Fredericksburg. In these open and rolling fields some two miles east of Chancellorsville, the two sides clashed. After a see-saw battle, the Federals turned back to Chancellorsville, giving Robert E. Lee and his army the initiative.
• The Chancellor House Site  – The focal point of Lee's May 3rd offensive, the Chancellor home served as a Federal hospital and headquarters throughout the battle. The home was destroyed by fire during the battle. Rebuilt after the war, the home again was consumed by fire in 1927.
• Catharine Furnace Ruins  – In the antebellum days this region of Virginia was dotted with iron and gold furnaces, the stack of the Catharine Furnace is all that remains of a once prosperous furnace complex. During the Battle of Chancellorsville Stonewall Jackson's 29,000 man flanking column marched past the complex on the afternoon of May 2nd. In 1864 the complex was burned by Federal cavalry under the command of General George A. Custer. 
• Jackson's Flank Attack Site  – On the afternoon of May 2, 1863, the right flank of the Union Army was located in this vicinity. Near 5:15 P.M. the first wave of Stonewall Jackson's flanking column struck the unsuspecting Federals. Within hours the Union flank was no more and Stonewall Jackson lay wounded by his own men. 
• Visit Ellwood , the historic home on the adjacent Wilderness Battlefield served as a Union headquarters and hospital during the Battle of the Wilderness, and the amputated left arm of Stonewall Jackson is buried in the family cemetery. 
• Visit the Lee-Jackson Bivouac , where the two famous generals met for the last time. 
• Take a battlefield hike on one of Chancellorsville's trails . See your NPS touring map for locations. 
• Visit one of the many river-crossing along the Rapidan and Rappahannock Rivers. 
• Do what strikes your fancy. Chancellorsville is a battlefield on which you could spend countless hours and never do the same thing twice. Explore what interests you! 

Insider tip: Stop by the often overlooked Salem Church – site of the last Federal offensive action of the battle; make the 27-mile trek to the Stonewall Jackson Shrine , where the famous general died on May 10, 1863.

Make Some History This Weekend in Fredericksburg

Tour American Battlefield Trust-Preserved Battlefields in Three Days

Tour Fredericksburg-Area Battlefields in Three Days

Related battles, the battlefields today.

Visit Chancellorsville

Visit Fredericksburg

Chancellorsville Virtual Tour

Fredericksburg Virtual Tour

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FXBG Walks – Unique Guided Walking Tours of Fredericksburg

FXBG Walks is a guided walking tour of Fredericksburg, Virginia, led by historian and history teacher Barbra. Tours will dive into unique sites and stories that can only be experienced in Fredericksburg.

👟 Tours happen rain or shine. 👟 Tours will cover about one mile and last 1.5-2 hours. 👟 Tickets are $15 per person, plus $1 processing fee (children under 10 are free). Tickets can be purchased in advance online. If the walk is not sold out, tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center on the day of the tour.

Upcoming 2024 FXBG Walks

April 13 – 400 years in 100 minutes.

Stroll along the streets of Fredericksburg to learn about the great events, people, and buildings that have shaped our city. 

🎫 Purchase April 13 walk tickets here.

May 11 – In the Footsteps of George Washington

Explore Fredericksburg through the eyes of our own founding father. Visit his favorite places in town, including bars, stores, and homes of his friends and family. 

🎫 Purchase April 13 walk tickets here. (coming soon)

CONTINUING OUR TOURS ! COVID and vaccine situations continue to change and we at Hallowed Ground Tours will always be cautious.If masks are required or requested, we will mask up.

​To schedule a tour, contact Hallowed Ground Tours by email at [email protected]. We can also be reached by phone at (540) 809-3918. ​

Offering personal tours of Historic Fredericksburg, VA and the many Civil War sites in the surrounding areas of Spotsylvania and Stafford Counties. 

Tailored to your family's or your group's specific needs. 

Expert, Personal, Private Tours from YOUR Car, Van, or Bus

Copyright.  Hallowed Ground Tours . All Rights Reserved.

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Battlefield Tours of Virginia

Join Battlefield Tours of Virginia to create your perfect private battlefield tour experience and visit hallowed American ground.

Over 100 5 Star Reviews

Took a full day tour of Jacksons Valley Campaign a few weeks ago and it was outstanding. The tour guide was well prepared and provided an in-depth overview of the multiple battles that make up this campaign.

We are big Civil War buffs, and even after reading about the battles and previously visiting some of the battlefields, we STILL learned so much. Highly recommend this tour for anyone, it’s well worth it.

We would highly recommend taking as much of the tour as you can. I learned so much and appreciate how he explained each battle. My husband has always been very interested in the civil war and now I am too. Can’t wait to go on more tours.

Comprehensive Civil War Tours in Virginia

On our tours, you won’t just learn about troop movements and who was victorious on the day. Your personal guide will give you the politics and context surrounding each battle, along with how the war was experienced by soldiers, generals, and ordinary civilians.

When you book one of our Battlefield Tours in Virginia , an expert local guide will join you for the day to help you uncover the fascinating stories behind key battles of the American Civil War.

Our Top Sellers

Battle of Fredericksburg

Battle of Chancellorsville

Battle of Cold Harbor Guided Tour

Popular Combo Tours

The Rising Tide of the Confederacy

The Culpeper Area Battlefields: Cedar Mountain & Brandy Station Combo Tour

The Richmond Area Battlefields: Seven Days’ Battles and Battle of Cold Harbor Combo Tour

Enjoy wide open spaces with your own battlefield-guide..

• No self-guided tour hassle… relax & let us do all the work
• VIP tours without the VIP price
• Private battlefield tours for your party only
• A local battlefield guide joins your vehicle
• Convenient online self-booking for half-day & day tours
• Veteran-owned & operated business
• Step-on guides available for private van & bus tours
• Battlefield guides are limited, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
• Custom tours are available by request for a shorter, longer, or special request/topic tour.

Note: It is recommended to spend a morning or afternoon per battlefield (4-hours) to get a comprehensive tour, make all tour stops, travel the distance needed, and tell a multi-day story in many different locations.

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Travel guides.

What Was the First Major Battle of the American Civil War

What Makes the American Civil War Unique in History?

What Did the Soldiers of the American Civil War Have in Common?

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HOME OF THE WORLD’S BEST BOURBON

Now open for complimentary tours & tastings delivery and pick-up available, virginia straight bourbon whiskey.

Innovative Experiment Turned World’s Best Bourbon

Modeled after our experimental port-finished bourbon that won the 2016 World’s Best Bourbon award, Isaac Bowman takes our bourbon, aged in American White Oak barrels, and finishes it in barrels that have been previously used to age port wine. This results in deep wood tannins, caramel, and spicy notes that are elegantly combined with flavors of jam-like fruit for a refreshingly smooth 92 proof finish.

Named for a true American pioneer, Captain Isaac Bowman was a soldier and militia officer who fought in the American Revolutionary War. In the late 1700s, he settled at the Fort Bowman estate in Northern Virginia.

MEET OUR DISTILLER

Bringing a big easy spirit to the old dominion.

David Bock is ready to take Virginia bourbon to a new level. After leading distilling and operations programs at some of the finest distilleries in New Orleans, he now calls Virginia home and leads the A. Smith Bowman Distillery team. With a keen eye for experimentation and product excellence, he has big plans for more unique mash bills, barrel finishes, and other surprises in store for A. Smith Bowman’s experimental series.

OUR TIME HONORED PROCESS

At A. Smith Bowman Distillery, we know a thing or two about aging well. As the oldest distillery in Virginia, we’ve learned a lot about our craft, not only from our founding fathers but from experimentation and innovation. Along our journey, we’ve always paid attention to the tiniest details in every step of the process. From fermentation of our mash to filling up our stills, nicknamed “Mary” and “George”, which pay homage to the parents of the Bowman Brothers — we stay true to our time honored traditions. As a result, we have our award-winning pioneer spirits to showcase.

Learn more about our process by clicking the icons below!

DAILY HOURS Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

TOURS AVAILABLE HOURLY

COMPLIMENTARY TOURS Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

HOLLI MAKIN Tour Guide

Holli joins the team at A. Smith Bowman Distillery as a tour guide. She previously worked as a health coach for several years because she loved people! We are excited to welcome Holli to the team!

GENA NELSON Tour Guide

Gena joins the team at A. Smith Bowman Distillery as a tour guide. Gena was previously the property manager at a 1000-acre private estate. We are thrilled to welcome Gena!

EVERTON BIGGS Machine Operator

Everton brings a smile to the Distillery every day. His positive attitude and knack for teamwork make us smile just as much as he does. When he’s not working alongside the team bottling or filling barrels, he’s our go-to guy for help with anything else that needs to get done for the day.

JUSTIN DAVIDSON Maintenance Technician

 Justin works diligently bottling and quality checking our spirits. When not at the bottling line, you will see Justin helping out with barreling and organizing the warehouse.

CARRIE BROWNING Visitor Experience Team Lead

Carrie is originally from Oklahoma, and she has lived in Greece, Hawaii, New York, South Korea, and Virginia. A mother of four, Carrie likes to keep moving and enjoys learning about history, which suits her well for leading tours at the Distillery.

DAVID IVEY Tour Guide

David previously worked as a Tour Guide at the James Monroe Museum and at James Madison’s Montpelier. Prior to that, he was the President and CEO of The Ivey Group. David holds a BA from Hendrix College.

AMEERA CHAMBERS Machine Operator

Ameera is determined, a positive thinker, and very driven. Ameera works well with others, is focused and flexible and has a great sense of humor. Prior to joining A. Smith Bowman, Ameera worked for Amazon. In her free time, she enjoys detailing her car, working out and cooking.

AUSTIN EARLEY-QUAST Machine Operator

Austin lives by the philosophy that “it’s always a good day when you’re learning something new.” He brings that same spirit of wanting to learn when bottling and quality checking our spirits. Wherever help is needed around the Distillery, you can find him there.

CHANTAY RICHARDSON Operations Coordinator

When she’s not spending time with family or enjoying hobbies like reading, volunteering, and traveling with friends, Chantay handles administrative work for our Distillery. She’s dedicated to growing in her role and learning the ins and outs of the business.

DEBBIE STEVENS Gift Shop & Operations Admin

Over her 30+ years with A. Smith Bowman Distillery, Debbie has taken on various roles including Bottling Line Worker, Krones Labeler Operator, and Bottling Line Foreman. Today, she puts her experience to work managing production compliance, shipping and receiving, and gift shop operations.

ELIZABETH BRUMMETT Operations Supervisor

Elizabeth entered this industry with high spirits first as a laboratory technician, later promoted to Craft and Processing Supervisor for Buffalo Trace Distillery. Now as our Operations Supervisor she provides oversight of distillery operations.

DAVID BOCK Distiller

Though he’s the newly named Distiller for A. Smith Bowman, David is no stranger to the industry. Coming to us from New Orleans, David was one of the three founding members of NOLA Distilling and was the Distillery Operations Manager at Sazerac House. In his new role, David will oversee all Distillery operations including keeping a close eye on our award-winning spirits.

KRISTEN BRUMBELOW Tour Guide

Kristen previously spent her days teaching the history of Mount Vernon to children at the historic home of George and Martha Washington. When she’s not showing folks around the Distillery, she’s studying early childhood education as her love for learning grows.

TOM COOK Machine Operator

Tom views making “adult beverages” as making good times and great memories. When he’s not immersed in all things oak-aged like bourbon, wine, or beer, you can find him at home playing his bass guitar or taking care of his snakes.

ANDREA BATES Tour Guide

Andrea has been working in the hospital industry ever since she can remember. Before joining us at the Distillery, Andrea spent time working as a private chef and in many Virginia winery tasting rooms. Transitioning from grapes to grains, Andrea knows exactly how to lead a great tour and loves meeting new folks from Fredericksburg and beyond.

ALLISON SCHWARTZ Tour Guide

Allison is a natural-born history buff. Before joining us at the Distillery, she worked as a Historical Interpreter at Washington Heritage Museums. She loves leading our guests through the Distillery and providing an in-depth history of our brand and spirits. When she’s not giving tours, she’s just up the road pursuing her Master’s Degree in Museum Studies at Johns Hopkins University.

SHERRY HARRISS Tour Guide

Sherry has worked for over 30 years as an investigator and thrives on learning how even the smallest details can have huge impacts. She continues the pursuit of details as she learns about and shares her knowledge of A. Smith Bowman’s history and successes.

LINDA KOMP Tour Guide

Originally from Butte, MT, Linda is a Gonzaga and University of Mary Washington graduate. With a background in Fine Arts and Historic Preservation, Linda shares a wealth of local knowledge and experience with every guest she tours.

Next, the wash is distilled. We’ve named our two stills George and Mary, paying homage to the mother and father of the Bowman brothers. Mary is our oldest still, while George is our newest 500-gallon hybrid pot. Once in the stills, the wash is heated and the vapor is condensed and collected as a liquid. This is known as “white dog.” Fun fact: Our bourbons are typically triple distilled.

Our spirits are proudly bottled by Virginians, all in-house. Our bottling line can comfortably accommodate six people, but we typically operate it with merely half of that. It’s crazy to imagine that a passionate distillery team of just six folks can successfully supply bourbon across the U.S., isn’t it?

ART FRANZEN Tour Guide

In his spare time, Art enjoys camping, hiking, and high-altitude mountain climbing. He’s also a graduate of UMW’s Historic Preservation-Archaeology program and an Eagle Scout in the BSA. There is never a dull moment with Art, and if he’s taken you on a tour, you know first hand!

The third step in our distilling process is maturation. Depending on the product, it can mature for many years. Lucky us, we get to take the first sips and decide when each barrel is ready to be bottled! From the very beginning days up until now, our attention to detail shows up in every tasty sip as we stay true to our traditional founding fathers and make our product the right way.

FERMENTATION

The first step in the distilling process is fermentation. For this process, we grind NON-GMO corn and cook it to draw out the natural sugar. Then we add our proprietary yeast strains, which convert the sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide within a few days time. At this stage, the liquid is called “wash.”

JIMMY BOOKER Machine Operator

As a 30+ year distillery veteran, Jimmy has a wealth of knowledge that he loves to share. Always with a smile on his face, Jimmy operates all equipment during distillation, barrel dumping and processing.

NEIL CLARK Machine Operator

Since joining our team, Neil has quickly become a jack-of-all-trades. He operates everything from the grist mills to the stills and barrel dumping to the bottling line.

KATE PATEL Human Resources Manager, Mid-Atlantic

Kate is originally from New Hampshire, and she currently lives in Baltimore with her husband, Gautam, and their dog, Allagash. Outside of work, Kate enjoys hiking, skiing, and being outside.

SARAH PALMER Tour Guide

Sara has a background in theatre and loves to talk about anything history-related — including whiskey and other spirits. She also enjoys hiking, riding horses, and spending time with her dog, Wendy.

MICAH GOLMANT Tour Guide

Micah has a passion for public speaking and enjoys learning about the chemistry and artistry that goes into distilling. Trust us, you’ll be able to hear his passion loud and clear on your next tour.

DAVID SWEET Tour Guide

After 20 years as a Corporate Manager with Lowe’s, David is now enjoying his retirement by giving highly enjoyable and informative tours. With a deep love of learning, he shares his passion for spirits with everyone he meets.

MARY OGLE Tour Guide

Mary graduated from the University of Mary Washington with a B.A. in History and enjoys working with the public, being able to interact with groups of all ages, and prides herself in her ability to provide excellent customer service by giving distillery tours.

ERIN LAFALCE Tour Guide

One of our most dynamic tour guides, Erin is a graduate of the University of Mary Washington here in Fredericksburg, VA. She brings a high level of enthusiasm and knowledge to every tour she gives

KEN EYER Tour Guide

Ken is a Michigan native who spent six years in the Marine Corps and nine years in the Army. Today, he gives amazing tours, and helps run our gift shop.

MICHELLE CICCARELLO Tour Guide

When she’s not giving tours of our distillery, Michelle enjoys volksmarching, reading and rereading classics and adjusting to being an empty nester.

BILL JONES Operations Supervisor

As our Operations Supervisor, Bill oversees the smooth operation of our distillery. Often working side-by-side with his staff, Bill can be found operating the stills, cooking mash and unloading trucks on his favorite piece of equipment, the forklift.

MICHELLE BEGIN Distillery Events Associate

As our Distillery Events Associate, Michelle is responsible for supervising and facilitating all of our events. She manages the booking process, including showing potential clients the facility.

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Battlefield Tours of Virginia - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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On December 13, 1862, United States forces under General Ambrose Burnside attacked the stone wall along the Sunken Road. Wave after wave of US soldiers marched towards the Confederate line; none made it closer than 50 yards. Confederate troops behind the stone wall and atop Marye's Heights held the high ground with their well-defended line. The Federal soldiers' assaults across Fredericksburg's open fairgrounds proved futile and left the soldiers exhausted and demoralized. They would not forget the loss they experienced at the Sunken Road. Casualties on this side of the battlefield were dramatically lopsided. By the end of December 13, 1862, there were around 1,500 Confederate casualties and 8,000 Federal casualties. After the battle, a question haunted these soldiers: how did this happen? In this tour we will learn about the events of December 1862, the circumstances that led to battle here, and how the country was forever changed after of the Battle of Fredericksburg.

Fredericksburg Driving Tour, #1, The Sunken Road

Welcome to the Fredericksburg Battlefield Driving Tour! The tour begins at the Sunken Road next to the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center. This first part of the audio tour introduces the context during which the Battle of Fredericksburg took place. Why was the US Army of the Potomac on the move in December of 1862? Why Fredericksburg?

Driving Directions to Chatham Manor, Stop #2

On exiting the parking lot, turn left on to Lafayette Blvd. In 0.7 miles turn left at Sophia St. Drive 0.4 miles and turn right at the Chatham Bridge. In 0.4 miles turn left on Chatham Heights Rd. then in 0.3 miles turn left onto Chatham Ln. Following the signs to Chatham Manor. Drive straight for 0.1 miles to the Chatham parking lot. *Accessible parking is available by turning left once you pass through the Chatham gates, all other parking is to the right.*

2. Chatham Manor

Both physically and chronologically, the Battle of Fredericksburg started at Chatham. Originally established as a slave plantation, Chatham embodies the main cause of the Civil War: the desire of white Southerners to maintain and protect the institution of slavery and the resulting material wealth that slavery produced for them. On December 11, 1862, the Army of the Potomac commanded by Major General Ambrose Burnside, crossed the Rappahannock River below Chatham Manor. The engineers had only managed to build the bridge halfway across the river when shots rang out and the Battle of Fredericksburg began.

Fredericksburg Driving Tour, #2, Chatham Manor

Part 2 of the Fredericksburg Driving Tour covers the stately Chatham Manor, a slave plantation that dates from 1771. It was from these heights that the US Army of the Potomac began building the bridges to cross into Fredericksburg. During the Battle of Fredericksburg Chatham served as a headquarters and hospital, but Chatham's history expands long before and well after the Civil War.

Driving Directions to Lee's Hill, Stop #3

To leave Chatham Manor, continue along Chatham Lane, which turns into a single lane, gravel road, that will take you around the house. Turn left at the exit onto River Road and then immediately right onto Chatham Bridge. Once off the bridge turn left at Sophia St. and drive 0.4 miles, taking a right at Lafayette Blvd. In 0.7 miles you will pass the visitor center. Once you pass the visitor center on Lafayette Blvd, continue for 0.6 miles, past the traffic light at the intersection with Route 3 (Blue and Gray Hwy). At the roundabout in 0.2 miles, stay on the inside lane to take the third exit onto Lee Drive. The parking area for Lee's Hill will be on the right in 0.2 miles.

3. Lee's Hill (Telegraph Hill)

On the western side of Fredericksburg, atop a hill once known as Telegraph Hill, Confederate General Robert E. Lee made his headquarters in anticipation of battle. Initially, Lee and the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia were situated further south. As reports came in that the United States Army was amassing at Fredericksburg, Lee moved his army into position surrounding the town. When Burnside and the Army of the Potomac arrived at Chatham, Lee was unsure of the Federals' plan. Where would Burnside cross the Rappahannock: right there at town, further upstream, further downstream? Lee was not prepared to face the larger US Army of 125,000 men because he had divided his forces: Jackson was in the Shenandoah Valley and Longstreet was in Culpeper. From this hill, Lee was able to see both ends of his line: the north end above the stone wall and the south end on Prospect Hill. His vantage point gave him the opportunity to know what was happening and adapt if necessary.

Fredericksburg Driving Tour, #3, Lee's Hill

How would Confederate General Robert E. Lee respond to the movements of the US Army of the Potomac? Explore the answer to this question in part 3 of the Frederickburg Driving Tour from atop Telegraph Hill the heights from which Lee watched the Battle of Fredericksburg.

Driving Directions to Howison Hill, Stop #4

Continue south along Lee Drive for 0.5 miles to the sign for Tour Stop #4, Howison Hill, and pull into a parking space on your right.

4. Howison Hill

Howison Hill, named for the Howison family that lived nearby, was an artillery position during the battle of Fredericksburg. In this area, Jane Howison Beale and her family watched the battle of Fredericksburg and she recorded her observations, thoughts, and feelings about the scene. Lee utilized the high hills west of Fredericksburg for his defenses, giving his artillery clear views of the oncoming Federal troops. Citizens also used the heights to observe the battle, hoping that their homes would not be destroyed in the chaos. They watched and waited to see if they would have homes or a town to return to.

Fredericksburg Driving Tour, #4, Howison Hill

What was it like for Fredericksburg's civilians during the Battle of Fredericksburg? In stop 4 of the Fredericksburg Driving Tour, follow the diary of Jane Howison Beale, a local woman who watched the battle from near this spot.

Driving Directions to the Union Breakthrough, Stop #5

Continue south along Lee Drive for 3.5 miles until you see the sign for Tour Stop #5, Union Breakthrough and park at the vehicle pullout.

5. Union Breakthrough

Around 1:00pm on December 13, 1862, Union General George Gordon Meade's 4,500-man division crossed an open field under intense artillery fire. Meade aimed for a swampy tract of woods that Confederate General A.P. Hill left undefended, thinking it was impassible. When Meade's troops broke through the Confederate line they surprised unprepared South Carolinians. Soon the Confederates rallied, and without reinforcements nearby, Meade's men could not hold their position against Confederate General Stonewall Jackson's 38,000-man corps.

Fredericksburg Driving Tour, #5, Union Breakthrough

The best chance for a battlefield victory for the US Army of the Potomac at Fredericksburg was to exploit a hole that Confederate forces left in their defensive line in the woods near Prospect Hill. While US forces did break through this line, they were unsupported and quickly fell back. Part 5 of the Fredericksburg Driving Tour explores the circumstances and consequences of this lost opportunity.

Driving Directions to Prospect Hill, Stop #6

Continue south along Lee Drive until the road ends at Tour Stop #6, Prospect Hill, in 0.5 miles.

6. Prospect Hill

When the Army of the Potomac arrived across the Rappahannock, the Army of Northern Virginia had few forces defending Fredericksburg. Robert E. Lee sent word to "Stonewall" Jackson, leading the 2nd Corps, to transition his troops from the Shenandoah Valley and join the rest of the Army of Northern Virginia at Fredericksburg. Jackson's troops were sometimes referred to as a "foot cavalry" because of their ability to move quickly. On November 24, Jackson's troops began the march. They traveled 13 to 17 miles a day and covered almost 175 miles. The 2nd Corps arrived in Fredericksburg on December 3. These Confederate forces formed a defensive line on the southern portion of the battlefield here at Prospect Hill. Fighting at here was not as lopsided at it was at the Sunken Road, though the casualties were still steep; about 4,000 Confederates and about 5,000 Federals would become casualties at Prospect Hill.

Fredericksburg Driving Tour, #6, Prospect Hill

The Confederate defenses at Prospect Hill, like those at Marye's Height, held up against Union assaults. The Battle of Fredericksburg ended in defeat for the United States and victory for the Confederates. In part 6 of the Fredericksburg Driving Tour, explore the aftermath of the Battle of Fredericksburg. What changed?...and what comes next?

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Last updated: March 7, 2024

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Contact info, mailing address:.

120 Chatham Ln Fredericksburg, VA 22405

540 693-3200

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(540) 898-0737

E-mail: [email protected].

Holiday Lights

Celebrate the Christmas season with a holiday lights tour. Gather family and friends or add us to your office party for a private charter. Hop aboard for a relaxing and fun time. We’ll do the driving while you enjoy the festive light displays and fill the bus with joyous sounds of Christmas. Contact Trolley Tours of Fredericksburg at 540-898-0737 to secure your private group reservation.

Holiday Lights 2023 Schedule

December 14 – 23 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM

Tours take approximately 1.25 hours (depending on traffic)

Tickets must be purchased online in advance. If a tour time is not available online, that indicates the trolley is full or is reserved for a private group.

Group Rate for a private 1.25-hour (approximately) tour: $400

Don’t delay. Dates fill up quickly!