Cool Spring Battlefield

On the brisk morning of April 23, 2013, Shenandoah University embarked on its newest venture­­ — the preservation and protection of land along the Shenandoah River integral to the July 18, 1864, Battle of Cool Spring.

These 195 acres of land, now known as the Shenandoah River Campus at Cool Spring Battlefield, were acquired by the Civil War Trust in 2012. Under the stewardship of the university, the battlefield grounds have transitioned from a former golf course into an outdoor classroom for the university community and general public.

LOCATION:

1400 Parker Lane
Bluemont, VA 20135

 

Open Daily from Dawn till Dusk

Touring the Battlefield

Following an unsuccessful attack on Washington D.C. on July 11, 1864, Confederate General Jubal A. Early withdrew to the Shenandoah Valley, where he had left Gen. John C. Breckinridge’s division to hold the Shenandoah River fords. Union General George Crook pursued Early but was repulsed when he sought to cross the river at Castleman’s Ferry on Sunday, July 17.

A Confederate deserter well acquainted with the area guided Union forces under Colonel Joseph Thoburn through woodlands north to the site of the Retreat, the home of Judge Richard Parker, where they were able to cross the river late in the afternoon of July 18 virtually undetected and form a battle line in the woods behind a stone fence on Cool Spring Farm (present-day Holy Cross Monastery).

When Breckinridge learned of the Union advance he sent Generals John B. Gordon’s and Gabriel C. Wharton’s divisions to challenge the attack. Confederate General Robert E. Rodes joined the offensive on the Unions right flank. Faced with superior forces Union troops retreated back across the river, losing 422 killed, wounded, and missing. Confederate casualties totaled about 295. Despite withstanding the Union assault, General Early continued to move his forces westward toward Winchester.

The Battle of Cool Spring — Phase 1

The Battle of Cool Spring — Phase 2

Battle of Cool Spring Guided Walking Tour

Shenandoah University invites you to use this guide to explore important elements of the Battle of Cool Spring.