Morning at Ellwood

It’s the anniversary days for Battle of the Wilderness, and on May 5, the weather was predicted to be exceptionally fine. The result? An early morning trip to the battlefield, a little hiking, and breakfast at a historic house.

Ellwood Manor is closed, like the other NPS buildings and facilities thanks to COVID-19. But if a visitor is willing to take a walk, it’s still okay to hike into the site. During the Battle of the Wilderness, General Warren—commander of the Union’s V Corps—made his headquarters in the home. Federal troops staged around the area before plunging into battle further south and west.

Here are a few photos from the morning of May 5, 2020…one hundred and fifty-six years after the Confederates surprised the columns marching through The Wilderness.

The National Park Service has a marked and maintained trail that leads through the fields, along Wilderness Run, and to the runs of Wilderness Tavern. At this time of year, I found it a little muddy, so if you’re heading out to walk wear suitable shoes!