This battle- fought on May 15, 1864- is most noted for the 257 VMI students who participated in the battle.

The battlefield is well preserved although intersected by Interstate 81. The battlefield is easily walked and a tunnel takes visitors from the main field to the eastern portion.

A visit should begin at the Hall of Valor which contains many exhibits of the battle and a large stained glass window memorializing the 10 VMI cadets who lost their lives at the battle.

The battle began at about 11AM about on Shirley Hill, about 1 1/2 miles behind the Hall of Valor  when Confederate troops engaged Union skirmishers up Manor's Hill. The Union fell back to the area north of the Hall and past the Bushong farm.

The Union forces were under Major General Franz Siegel while the General John C. Breckinridge commanded the rebel forces. 

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Hall of Valor

Jacob and Sarah Bushong Farm, established in 1818. Main house built in 1825. Served as a field hospital after the battle

Bushong Farm buildings