Civil War Sites

Fairfax County & Civil War History

Fairfax County witnessed significant military activity during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865. Under the command of Union General Irvin McDowell, 18,000 soldiers from the Army of Northeastern Virginia advanced from Washington, D.C., through Fairfax County. However, following the Union defeat at the First Battle of Bull Run, they were forced to retreat through the county back to the nation’s capital city. The Confederacy then established its headquarters at Fairfax Court House. Still, even after Union forces regained control, the county remained part of "Mosby’s Confederacy," where Confederate raiders frequently harassed Union camps, supply lines, and troops. The largest single battle in Fairfax County was the Battle of Chantilly, or the Battle of Ox Hill where General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson defeated General John Pope’s Union troops as they retreated to Alexandria and Washington after the Battle of Second Manassas, also known as Second Bull Run.

Historic Civil War Battlefields

Northern Virginia is home to one Civil War site that has become a National Park, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Manassas National Battlefield Park preserves the site of two major battles: the First and Second Battles of Manassas. The First Battle fought on July 21, 1861, resulted in a devastating Union defeat, setting the stage for the early years of the war. Just over a year later, in August 1862, the three-day Second Battle of Manassas took place and was another important victory for the Confederates aiding Lee’s push northward at a critical time. Nearby, Ox Hill Battlefield Park is the only Civil War battle fought in Fairfax County, which took place shortly after the Second Battle of Manassas. Visitors can also explore Ball’s Bluff Battlefield in Leesburg, the site of one of the largest Civil War engagements in the area. Beyond Virginia, Maryland’s Antietam Battlefield marks the end of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia’s first invasion of the North, while Pennsylvania’s Gettysburg Battlefield stands as the turning point of the war.

People, Stories, Battles

Behind the battles are the people and stories that shaped history. Explore the conflict and bravery in Fairfax County, the origins of the American Red Cross, and uncover the story of a Confederate spy. Discover the significant historical events of the Civil War in Fairfax County.

Visitor Information

A full-scale Civil War Museum and great-tasting wines can be found at the Winery at the Bull Run. With 5,000 countryside acres of the historic Manassas National Battlefield Park, this winery is surrounded by history. The Winery at Bull Run is passionate about the history of the area and shares its passion through immersive wine tours. Explore a collection of over 200,000 artifacts with exclusive access to their Civil War museum. Become a witness to history as you view the relics and as experts share the stories behind the relics while enjoying their signature wines. The Past to Present: The Historical Estate Tour invites guests to stroll through the property with a knowledgeable guide and uncover stories from the Civil War. Stand among the ruins and hear fascinating facts about Hillwood Estate. For those eager to delve deeper into history, the Civil War Trail connects travelers to small towns and significant stories, tracing the footsteps of generals, soldiers, civilians, and the enslaved who experienced the war firsthand.

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