Civil war preservation in Henrico, Virginia

Located on Willis Church Road in Henrico, Virginia, the Malvern Hill Battlefield is a historic park and tourist attraction that preserves a section of the two-mile front where Confederates made an unsuccessful attack on June 26. This bold advance, combined with the arrival of "Stonewall" Jackson's command, led to Union commander George B. McClellan ordering a withdrawal to high ground near Gaines' Mill. Visitors can explore the short trail starting at the parking area, which takes them across the creek through an area where Southern casualties were particularly heavy. Along the way, exhibits describe the fighting from both the Union and Confederate perspectives. Beyond its Civil War history, the Malvern Hill Battlefield also has a rich pre-war history. The property features the Shelton House, built by the Shelton family around 1723 and inhabited by them for over 280 years before being sold to the National Park Service in 2001. The Shelton family had direct ties to the Revolution, as Sarah Shelton was married to Patrick Henry, possibly in the Shelton House. During the Civil War, the house witnessed intense action as two Union signalmen relayed messages to their troops while Confederate troops attempted to shoot them down, hitting the building at least 50 times. Despite the damage, the Union soldiers survived.

The Stuart Monument, located at 10112 Telegraph Road in Glen Allen, Virginia, is a historical institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart. The monument serves as a tribute to Stuart's leadership and bravery during the Civil War, showcasing artifacts, memorabilia, and educational exhibits that highlight his contributions to American history. Visitors can learn about Stuart's military career, his impact on the war, and his lasting influence on the nation. The Stuart Monument is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in learning more about the Civil War era.

Varina LandLab at Deep Bottom is a 353-acre park located at 9200 Deep Bottom Road in Richmond, Virginia. This property was gifted to the Capital Region Land Conservancy (CRLC) in 2021 to provide public access to the outdoors and environmental education opportunities. The park is protected by a conservation easement co-held by CRLC and the Henricopolis Soil and Water Conservation District, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Varina LandLab serves as an outdoor classroom for K-12 students, university classes, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. The park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, making it an ideal location for learning about ecology, sustainability, and land management. Visitors can explore the park's trails for hiking and birdwatching, with plans to open additional trails in May 2023.