The Battle of Fredericksburg took place on December 11-15, 1862, as a failed attempt by the Union Army to cross the Rappahannock River in their attempt to capture the Confederate capital of Richmond. The arrival of Union pontoons took longer than expected, so General Robert E. Lee had time to fortify his ground.

The result was not so much a battle as it was a total massacre. Visitors to Fredericksburg often take time to visit the site of this bloodshed, which belies its violent history with its tranquil, tree-lined grounds.

The visitor’s center at Fredericksburg Battlefield contains a sizeable museum with artifacts and history from the Civil War, a short documentary about the battle, and a bookstore/gift shop.

1013 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

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