On Saturday, Nov. 9, at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park, staff, volunteers and period-dressed living historians will be hosting our annual “Veterans Day Luminary” commemorative trail walk.

Two, evening time, ranger-guided hikes will depart from the Hillsman House and lead visitors along the “Wheaton Trail.” Eight stops along the trail will feature living historians providing first-person accounts detailing a specific portion of the Battles of Sailor’s Creek. Over 500 luminaries will line the trail, each representing the life of a Northern or Southern soldier who gave their last full measure in the final major engagement of the war in Virginia.

Tours are scheduled for 6 and 7 p.m. Each hike will last approximately 45 minutes. The Hillsman House will also be open for tours from 1-7 p.m. There is no admission for this family-friendly event. Since the hikes will take place after dark, visitors are encouraged to dress accordingly for the temperature, bring a flashlight and wear appropriate footwear for hiking. Visitors are also encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy as a contribution to the 2019 Amelia County Christmas Father’s program. In the event of inclement weather (rain or snow), the program will be canceled. Contact the park’s visitor center at (804) 561-7510, or email sailorscreek@dcr.virginia.gov for questions about this and other upcoming events.