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Richmond Battlefields Association Mission

The Richmond Battlefields Association (RBA) has pledged to protect the historical integrity of the battlefields near Richmond, Virginia, by preserving them from destruction. The RBA hopes to achieve this goal by promoting historical preservation in general, and by educating the public about the tremendous importance of these Richmond battlefields. We believe these places, this hallowed ground, teach unique and priceless lessons.

I've spent my entire life studying America's battlefields, and I believe strongly in the importance of preserving them. There are many outstanding, nationally significant Civil War battlefields around Richmond, and they merit greater attention than they have received. Local organizations like the Richmond Battlefields Association are critical players in the fight that we must win to save historic ground. I'm proud to be affiliated with the RBA in an advisory role.
- Ed Bearrs, Author and Former Chief Historian of the National Park Service

Richmond stood at the epicenter of the American Civil War, and its hallowed ground is fast disappearing. Once gone, the fields where the Blue and the Gray shed their blood can never be restored. Due in significant part to the Richmond Battlefields Association's persistent efforts, several priceless relics of our nation's heritage have been preserved. RBA is the premier organization in the Richmond area dedicated to preserving these irreplaceable monuments to our past. I encourage everyone who shares my desire to see our nation's history passed on to future generations to give generously in its support.
- Gordon Rhea, Historian and Author

There are no more important, threatened battlefields in this country worth our determined efforts to save them than the battlefields in the Richmond area.
- Brian Pohanka, Historian and Preservationist

A Lasting Legacy

The preservation community lost one of its most tireless advocates in 2005 with the passing of Brian Pohanka. A historian, re-enactor, preservationist, and advisor to films such as Gods and Generals and Cold Mountain, Brian was a charter member of the RBA and served with distinction on our Board of Directors.

Brian’s commitment to the cause extended beyond his lifetime through a substantial bequest to the RBA. This gift has served as a vital catalyst, allowing us to aggressively leverage matching funds for critical land acquisitions at Glendale, Cold Harbor, Fussell's Mill, and Gaines' Mill. His generosity has created a permanent legacy—honoring both the soldiers who fought on these bloody fields and a modern-day comrade who dedicated his life to ensuring they are never forgotten.

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The late Edwin C. Bearss, National Park Service Historian Emeritus, was a world-renowned authority on the Civil War. During his career, Ed launched major battlefield preservation initiatives and was devoted to saving America's Civil War battlefields.

Gordon C. Rhea is a nationally acclaimed author and historian. He is the foremost authority on the Overland Campaign and has a long standing commitment to historic preservation.

Brian C. Pohanka, was a well-known author, historian, and ardent preservationist. A charter board member of RBA, Brian left an indelible legacy of dedication and financial commitment to battlefield preservation.