Embark on an insightful African American Civil War tour through Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County, Virginia, and delve into the region’s rich history.
Begin your journey at the City Docks, the historic landing site of the first enslaved individuals in Fredericksburg. From there, visit a plantation house to gain a deeper understanding of the daily lives of the enslaved people. Learn about one of the earliest and most significant acts of self-emancipation, sparked by the arrival of the Federal army in 1862.
Hear the poignant stories and experiences of the enslaved people from Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County. As the tour progresses, explore the profound impact of the Emancipation Proclamation and the subsequent formation and deployment of the United States Colored Troops (U.S.C.T.). The tour culminates with a visit to the historic battleground where the U.S.C.T. bravely engaged Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia for the first time.
If the Academy Award-winning film “Glory,” which depicts the valor of the 54th Massachusetts in Georgia and South Carolina, captivated you, then the tales of the 23rd U.S.C.T.’s exploits in Virginia will resonate deeply with you.
Along the way, our local battlefield guide historians will answer some of these popular questions.
This private battlefield tour pairs nicely with the Battle of Fredericksburg. If you would like a custom Civil War tour based on your areas of interest, explore our Custom American Civil War Tours option.
If you have any questions, please get in touch.
Let us show you the way as you relax and skip the self-guided tour hassle. Your own battlefield guide will meet you at the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center; in front of the museum shop building off of the back parking lot.
After an introduction, your battlefield guide will join your vehicle as you depart to your first stop. It is recommended that the battlefield guide drive your vehicle so you can relax and enjoy the tour, but it’s up to you who drives.
Joining your vehicle keeps the cost down so you can see more battlefields with us.
Step-on battlefield guides are available for larger passenger vehicles (van or bus). For more information and prices, please contact us.