Historian, Interpreter | Petersburg National Battlefield EMMANUEL DABNEY The Civil War remains a defining The Civil War remains a defining period in American history period in American history because America does not have an because America does not have an uncomplicated past. In our present uncomplicated past. In our present day, we continue to find ourselves day, we continue to find ourselves polarized over nationalism, race, polarized over nationalism, race, and freedom. Petersburg’s historic and freedom. Petersburg’s historic sites and battlefields helps us sites and battlefields helps us understand the potential fragility understand the potential fragility of our republic. of our republic. “ Petersburg National Battlefield The Longest Siege on American Soil Almost one quarter of the Civil War was fought here as Generals Lee and Grant battled for control of the railroads that the Confederacy desperately needed to survive. Petersburg National Battlefield tells the story of the long siege that resulted in the fall of Richmond and the war’s end. General Grant’s Headquarters at City Point Now the City of Hopewell, Grant established his headquarters at City Point, a port town at the confluence of two rivers. Overnight, the town became one of the busiest ports in the world as hundreds of ships delivered food, clothing, and bullets. The Eastern Front The Eastern Front features exhibits and audio-visual programs that introduce the story of the siege and its impact on the course of the war. Walk the battlefield to find the infamous Crater! Five Forks Battlefield One day before the Breakthrough, Union General Sheridan’s men overwhelmed Gen. Pickett’s soldiers at this pivotal road intersection, Five Forks, and the battle became known as the “Waterloo of the Confederacy”. Poplar Grove National Cemetery Over 6,000 Federal soldiers who fell in battles from Petersburg to Lynchburg have their final resting place in Dinwiddie County. “ PETERSBURGAREA.ORG 804.861.1666 25