Yorktown Battlefield and Colonial Parkway

It was interesting to drive the Yorktown Battlefield area. Having driven through Gettysburg and its many battlefields, I expected much the same in Yorktown. In Gettysburg there are many monuments and historical markers and other structures noting significant battles and events. Not so in Yorktown.

This battle was fought in what was pretty much an open field. Therefore, there wasn't much to take pictures of. I did take a picture of a marker that depicts the battle site and explains the positioning of troops. I hope you can see it clearly. If not, click on the picture and it will enlarge, if you are interested. We did see the home of Augustine Moore where officers from both sides met to negotiate the surrender of the British. Can you imagine General Washington walking up to your house and asking to use it for a surrender?!!?!! I mean, Mr. Moore had a very ordinary house. But, he did have an awesome view of the York River! This battle was only 13 days from the time the Allied troops constructed the first siege line to the day Cornwallis' army surrendered its arms. And it was the last major battle of the Revolution which basically assured our independence.

Right at the Visitor's Center in Yorktown there was a Civil War reenactment this weekend. I sure wouldn't have wanted to be those reenactors in this heat! UGH! I took a few pictures, though.


While on our battlefield drive, we found Yorktown National Cemetery, a Civil War cemetery. There are over 2000 grave sites and each one was decorated with an American flag. It was quite an impressive site. Sadly, though, less than 800 of those graves are identified.

We finished our drive along Colonial Parkway after our battlefield tour. There were a lot of folks enjoying the hot weather by setting up on the beaches of the York River and the several creeks that run along the parkway. We saw historical markers for a couple of plantations that used to sit in what is now the York River. I guess erosion, man and weather has widened the river through the years.

This has been a great week. We've been busy - we went exploring every day! For those of you who know us, you know that's unusual. We've learned more about our country and its hard fight for freedom and independence. Seems we continue that fight today. Let's remember those who have paid the ultimate price so that we can enjoy the life we are able to live.

We leave Tuesday morning for a visit with my folks in Ocean City, Maryland. I was able to see them for a couple of days back in early April when I was home, but it's going to be good to hang out with them next week. We also get to celebrate Randy's birthday! :)

Hope you all have had a great weekend. Take care of each other. Until the next time . . .