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Petersburg National BattlefieldPeriod drawing of artillery being fired at siege of Petersbrug
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Petersburg National Battlefield
Frequently Asked Questions
 

Park Orientation


How long is the tour route and how much time does it take?

From Grant's Headquarter's at City Point to Five Forks Battlefield the distance is approximately 33 miles. Most of this is along public roads. It take a full day to see the 13 tour stops and three visitor centers related to this battlefield.

 

History


What happened to the "Dictator"?

The 13-inch seacoast mortar used by Union forces was here for only the first few months of the siege and most likely went to scrap by the end of the 1800's. The seacost mortar that represents the "Dictator" today on the battlefield is from the same era.

Did President Lincoln stay in the Appomattox Plantation house while visiting General Grant?

No. He stayed on the River Queen, the boat that brought him and Mrs. Lincoln down from Washington D.C.

What is left of the earthworks from the Battle of Five Forks? 

The best example of those original earthworks can be found at the "Angle" at the east end of the Confederate line.

Were there as many trees here as there were during the Battle of Five Forks?

Yes. The density of trees and the existing fields is about the same as what the soldiers saw and fought through on April 1, 1865.

 

Park Policy


Are sign language services available?

Yes. American Sign Language interpretation is available upon request. Please call (804) 732-3531 at least 14 days prior to your visit.

Are you allowed to fish at City Point? Are you allowed to go swimming?

You are allowed to fish as long as you have a current and proper fishing license. Swimming is not allowed at City Point.

Eleanor Roosevelt on her wedding day  

Did You Know?
Eleanor Roosevelt married FDR on March 17,1905 ( St. Patrick's Day ) in NYC. Her uncle President Theodore Roosevelt walked her down the aisle.

Last Updated: August 12, 2008 at 10:30 EST