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Cold Harbor

Opportunity Knocks: In the Spring of 2008, a tip from a vigilant friend of the RBA led us to a "For Sale" sign near historic Beulah Church—a site of heavy combat during the first three days of June 1864. Our investigation of the property revealed a pristine line of earthworks hidden in the woods. These fortifications were likely constructed for artillerists of the Union 18th Corps after their disastrous attack on June 3rd. To secure the site, the RBA successfully applied for matching funds from the Commonwealth of Virginia, effectively increasing the impact of our members' contributions by 50% and ensuring these rare field fortifications remain undisturbed.

Strength in Partnership: A core pillar of the RBA’s mission is maintaining strong, cordial relationships with local landowners. This trust paid off in late 2012 when a family who had previously worked with us alerted the RBA that an additional 7-acre tract was going to market. Recognizing the site's historical value, the RBA moved immediately to secure a contract. Our efforts were bolstered by the American Battlefield Trust, which provided a generous loan to finalize the deal. The quick response of the RBA coupled with the strong support of the ABT once again proved to be a winning combination for battlefield preservation! (Note: The preserved property is highlighted in blue on the maps below)

Saved for Future Generations: In a major win for historic preservation, the Richmond National Battlefield Park added these 18 acres to the park in 2014. This acquisition ensures this hallowed ground—once a site of intense conflict— is now protected in perpetuity for the education and reflection of future generations.

June 1, 1864

Keitt's Forlorn Charge: Col. Laurence M. Keitt led Kershaw's Brigade across this ground in a disorganized assault agains dismounted Union cavalry. Keitt—a former congressman infamous for his role in the 1856 caning of Senator Charles Sumner—was leading the 900-man 20th South Carolina Infantry, which had arrived in Richmond only 48 hours prior. As the band of the 1st New York Dragoons played "Yankee Doodle" and "Dixie," the Confederate line buckled under heavy fire. Keitt was mortally wounded while attempting to rally his troops; he passed away the following day.

Union VI and XVIII Corps Attack: Late in the afternoon, the combined strength of divisions from the 6th and 18th Corps pierced the Confederate line, overwhelming Wofford's Brigade. However, the success was short-lived; Southern reinforcements launched a counter-attack, reclaiming the works and driving back the exhausted Federals.

June 3, 1864

Union XVIII Corp Disaster: At dawn, the 18th Corps launched a frontal assault across these fields that resulted in one of the most infamous repulses in American military history. Pinned down in the ravines feeding the Gaines’ Mill pond, Union forces suffered 7,000 casualties in mere minutes. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant reflected on this tragedy in his memoirs:

"I have always regretted that the last assault at Cold Harbor was ever made... No advantage whatever was gained to compensate for the heavy loss we sustained."

Above: The Cold Harbor battlefield site saved by RBA, viewed from Beulah Church.

At an annual meeting of the RBA, members tour the Cold Harbor property they helped save. Historian David Lowe (below),an expert on Civil War field fortifications, conducted the tour (June 2010).

On a previous occasion, RBA members had the opportunity to explore the privately-held Allison Farm on the Cold Harbor battlefield with historian R.E.L. Krick and author Gordon Rhea (June 2005).

This Beulah Church portion of the Cold Harbor Battlefield was saved by RBA and is now part of the Richmond National Battlefield Park.

Richmond National Battlefield Park Superintendent Dave Ruth accepts transfer of 18 acres from RBA president Ben Brockenbrough.

Afterwards, RBA members tour the Beulah Church battlefield with historian Mike Andrus (November 2014).