Wartime Manassas: "Defend that point against an attack"

History: This location provided a significant strategic advantage, which was coveted by both the Union and Confederate forces throughout the Civil War. Manassas Junction was a vital communication and supply railroad intersection that provided the only link between Washington and Richmond and access to the fertile produce and livestock of the Shenandoah Valley. Here, the Orange and Alexandria Railroad and Manassas Gap Railroad met, connecting to the Virginia Central Railroad. To the Confederates, control of the Manassas Gap Railroad increased protection at the northern end of the Shenandoah Valley from Union attack, which enabled the Confederates to attack Harpers Ferry and disrupt service on the B&O Railroad.

More to Explore: See www.virginia.org and www.civilwartraveler.com for exciting things to see and do on your travels.

Photo Credits:

1. "Photograph showing the ruins of the turntable of the Orange and Alexandria railroad destroyed by retreating Confederates at Manassas Junction."
2. "Sketch of officers at Manassas Junction looking out towards Bull Run and Centreville." Prints courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division