Add Us As A Trusted Google Source For over 30 years, Civil War Trails has partnered with communities across six states to share the rich histories of America’s most pivotal conflict. This network of more than 1,500 interpretive sites puts visitors in the footsteps of generals, soldiers, citizens, and freedom seekers, bringing to life the stories that shaped our nation. Through a community-driven approach that emphasizes interpretation rather than commemoration, Civil War Trails offers travelers of all ages authentic historical learning experiences.
Key Takeaways:
- Lexington, Virginia and the Inn at Brierley Hill serve as an ideal base for exploring Hunter’s Raid Trail sites
- More than 20 Civil War Trails markers chronicle General David Hunter’s 1864 campaign through the Shenandoah Valley
- Eight of the sites range from downtown Lexington locations to scenic destinations within a 30-minute drive
- Each location offers historical markers with detailed accounts of the events that transpired
- Many sites combine Civil War history with modern recreational opportunities
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Hunter’s Raid: The Campaign That Devastated Lexington
In late May 1864, Union General David Hunter embarked on a campaign that would leave an indelible mark on the Shenandoah Valley and Lexington in particular. As part of General Ulysses S. Grant’s strategy to attack Confederate forces simultaneously throughout Virginia, Hunter marched south from Cedar Creek with 18,000 soldiers. His objectives were clear: drive out Confederate forces, devastate the Valley’s agricultural resources, and destroy critical transportation facilities at Lynchburg. The trail of destruction he left behind, and the sites that commemorate these events, now offers modern visitors a compelling window into this turbulent period.
Civil War Trails Sites in Lexington
Hunter’s Raid Marker
Location: Lexington Visitor Center, 106 E Washington St., Lexington, VA
Historical Significance: This central marker provides the essential context for understanding Hunter’s entire campaign. After defeating Confederate General William E. “Grumble” Jones at Piedmont on June 5, 1864, Hunter’s forces marched to Lexington, entering the town on June 11. Confederate General John C. McCausland’s skirmishers, including VMI cadets, contested the river crossing while artillerists fired from the Virginia Military Institute parade ground. Union gunners responded by shelling Lexington from high ground north of town, causing significant property damage. For three days, Hunter’s men plundered private homes and Washington College (now Washington and Lee University). On June 12, Hunter ordered the burning of VMI and the home of former Virginia Governor John Letcher, though Washington College was spared after administrators successfully pleaded that the institution was named for George Washington.
While You’re There: Savor a meal at one of Lexington’s many restaurants.
Jordan’s Point
Location: Stono Ln & Saunders Dr., Lexington, VA (island in the Maury River)
Historical Significance: On the early morning of June 11, 1864, this site witnessed the crucial river crossing that opened Lexington to Union occupation. Confederate General McCausland positioned approximately 1,500 soldiers along the riverbank, stretching from a cedar thicket to the warehouses at the canal landing, with artillery stationed on the bluff above. Hunter’s 18,000 Union troops occupied the hillside across the river, attempting crossings here and at Leyburn’s Ford a mile upstream. McCausland torched the covered bridge, the stone abutments remain visible today, after calling in his skirmishers. Union General Rutherford B. Hayes commanded the first Federal forces to reach the opposite bank. After several hours, McCausland withdrew leaving the road to Lexington open.
While You’re There: Jordan’s Point serves as a park featuring accessible amenities, walking trails, and a canoe launch.
Sites Within 30 Minutes of Lexington
Natural Bridge
Location: 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, VA (17 miles from Inn at Brierley Hill)
Historical Significance: On June 14, 1864, Hunter’s army marched within three miles of this natural wonder en route from Lexington to Lynchburg. Union Colonel David Hunter Strother noted the disappointment of officers unable to visit the landmark, though some, including Lieutenant Meigs, did manage the detour. More poignantly, after Hunter’s attack on Lynchburg was repulsed on June 17-18, Confederate troops passing through desperately wanted to view Natural Bridge. Assistant Surgeon Thomas Fanning Wood of the 3rd North Carolina Infantry documented visiting the site on June 23.
While You’re There: Explore the trails at Natural Bridge State Park.
Brownsburg
Location: 2716 Brownsburg Turnpike, Brownsburg, VA (approximately 20 miles from Inn at Brierley Hill)
Historical Significance: When Hunter’s forces left Staunton on June 10, 1864, they advanced along the Brownsburg Turnpike, with General George Crook’s infantry and General William W. Averell’s cavalry facing determined resistance from Confederate General McCausland’s cavalry brigade. McCausland charged the Federals five times, each time forcing them to dismount and deploy, significantly delaying their advance. Crook and his officers set up temporary camp at Brownsburg before continuing toward Lexington on June 11.
While You’re There: Check out the Brownsburg Museum.
Buchanan Sites
Location: Approximately 30 miles from Inn at Brierley Hill
Historical Significance: Four Civil War Trails markers in Buchanan chronicle the town’s experience during Hunter’s Raid.
- The Buchanan Bridge (630 Co Rd T-1305) witnessed a dramatic confrontation when Confederate General McCausland packed the wooden covered bridge with coal oil-soaked hay and ignited it to prevent Averell’s cavalry from crossing.
- Wilson Warehouse (60 Washington St.), now the Community House, stored military supplies.
- The Anchorage (19391 Lee Hwy) was the home of Confederate Naval Captain William Conway Whittle.
- Mount Joy (17729 Lee Hwy) was the home of Confederate congressman Col. John T. Anderson until Gen. David Hunter ordered for it to be burned.
While You’re There: Have a beer at A Few Old Goats Brewing.
Planning Your Visit
Civil War Trails offers a unique opportunity to explore history at your own pace, whether by car, bicycle, or on foot. The sites around Lexington provide compelling narratives of military strategy, civilian suffering, and the complexities of a nation divided. Each historical marker offers detailed accounts that bring these events to life, transforming abstract history into vivid, personal stories. When you stand where soldiers fought and citizens endured, the Civil War becomes more than dates and battles; it becomes a tangible connection to the people who shaped our nation’s destiny.