Each year in Petersburg in April, there is a Revolutionary war encampment commemorating the battle fought here on April 25, 1781 on the actual site that Lord Charles Cornwallis’ troops occupied in May 1781.
This event draws many authentically recreated American, British, German, French, Native American, and Spanish units that document their lineage to actual service in the American Revolution.
It is held at Battersea Plantation on the West End of Washington St. (Less than 2 mi. from I-95!)
Throughout the weekend, on these 35 acres, there are continuing military camp-life and battlefield demonstrations of infantry, cavalry and artillery as well as a field hospital, various crafts, camp cooking, and a range of “Sutlers” selling 18th century wares.
A significant event is the Saturday morning memorial service, held in honor of Major General William Phillips who commanded the British Force in the Battle of Petersburg. Phillips died of a fever 3 weeks following the battle and was buried nearby in Blandford Church Cemetery on Crater Rd.
Petersburg’s battle reenactment is held at Battersea on the west end of Washington Street.
VA Exit 52
April 16 & April 17 2011
804-733-2400
http://www.petersburg-va.org/revwar/livinghistory.htm