Ox Hill Battlefield Park is a historic site in Fairfax County, Virginia, near the town of Burke. It is known for the Battle of Chantilly, fought on September 1, 1862, during the American Civil War. This battle took place between Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia and Union General John Pope’s Army of Virginia. Today, the park serves as a memorial to the soldiers who fought and died in the battle.
The park spans 58 acres and features a 1.5-mile walking trail that winds through the battlefield. Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the battle and the soldiers. Visitors can also rest on several benches positioned throughout the trail.
A key highlight of the park is the interpretive center, housed in a restored farmhouse that served as a field hospital during the battle. The center includes exhibits on the battle, featuring artifacts and maps, and offers a short film about the event in its theater.
The park’s memorial plaza was built to honor the soldiers who fought in the battle. The plaza includes a bronze statue of a soldier, a reflecting pool, and a wall listing the names of the soldiers who died in the battle. Several interpretive panels in the plaza provide additional information about the battle and the soldiers.
In addition to its historical features, the park offers amenities for visitors, including picnic tables, grills, and a children’s playground. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts also frequent the park, which is home to various species of birds and wildlife.
The Battle of Chantilly, also referred to as the Battle of Ox Hill, was fought in heavy rain and resulted in a costly Confederate victory. The Confederate army lost more than 1,300 men, while the Union army lost over 1,700. The battle marked the end of General Pope’s campaign to capture Richmond, the Confederate capital, and showcased the strength of Lee’s army, which overcame a larger Union force despite being outnumbered and outgunned.
Ox Hill Battlefield Park, established in 2005 to preserve the site and honor the soldiers, is maintained by Fairfax County and open year-round. It attracts history buffs, Civil War enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Visitors can take guided tours led by park rangers or volunteer guides, offering a detailed account of the battle, its strategies, and its impact. Self-guided tours are also available, with interpretive signs providing insights into the battle and its soldiers.
The park also includes several other features, such as picnic tables, benches, and a playground for children. Monuments and memorials throughout the park commemorate those who fought and died, including the Texas Monument, which honors the Texas Brigade soldiers, and the Chantilly Monument, marking the site where Confederate General Isaac R. Trimble was mortally wounded.
In addition to its historical significance, Ox Hill Battlefield Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its trails are ideal for hiking and mountain biking, and the open spaces provide opportunities for picnicking and relaxation amidst the area’s natural beauty.
Overall, Ox Hill Battlefield Park is a captivating destination for those interested in American history or the Civil War. The park’s interpretive displays and trails offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the site of one of the war’s significant battles, while its outdoor amenities provide a peaceful retreat in nature.