Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park (Prince Edward County, Virginia), Rice, Virginia, U.S.A.
Entry sign, with the Overton-Hillsman House in the background
Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park (Prince Edward County, Virginia), Rice, Virginia, U.S.A. Location in Virginia Show map of Virginia Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park (Prince Edward County, Virginia), Rice, Virginia, U.S.A. Location in the United States Show map of the United States
Location	6541 Saylers Creek Road, (Prince Edward County), Rice, Virginia 23966
Area	379 acres (153 ha)
Established	1985
Governing body	Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation

Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park is a special place in Virginia. It covers about 379 acres (153 hectares) near Rice, Virginia. This park is mostly in Amelia County, with a small part in Prince Edward County.

The park protects a very important historical site. It was here that the Battle of Sayler's Creek happened on April 6, 1865. This battle was one of the last big fights in the American Civil War (1861–1865).

The End of the Civil War

The Battle of Sayler's Creek was a key moment in the war. It took place just three days before the war officially ended. Confederate General Robert E. Lee (1807–1870) was retreating with his army. They were trying to escape from Richmond and Petersburg. These cities had been the capital of the Confederacy.

Union General Ulysses S. Grant (1822–1885) and his army were chasing them. The battle at Sailor's Creek was a major defeat for Lee's forces. Soon after, General Lee surrendered to General Grant at Appomattox Court House. This surrender effectively ended the long and difficult Civil War.

What to See at the Park

Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park offers many things to explore. You can learn about the battle and the people involved.

The Hillsman House

The historic Hillsman House is a very important building at the park. During and after the battle, it was used as a field hospital. This means injured soldiers from both sides were treated there. Today, you can visit the Hillsman House in the summer. You can also ask to see it at other times.

Visitor Center and Trails

The park has a visitor center with interesting exhibits. You can see artifacts and items from the Civil War era. Park rangers often give talks and lectures. These talks help you understand the history of the battle. There are also walking trails throughout the park. Along the trails, you'll find signs that explain what happened at different spots.

Living History Events

Sometimes, the park hosts "living history" events. During these events, people dress up as Civil War soldiers and civilians. They act out scenes from the past. This helps visitors imagine what life was like during the war. It's a great way to experience history firsthand.

Why the Name "Sailor's Creek"?

The park's name, "Sailor's Creek," might seem a bit unusual. It appears to be a misspelling of "Sayler." The battle was named after a farmer named Sayler. It was also named after a stream on his land. Some official records, like those for National Historic Landmark sites, use the name "Sayler's Creek Battlefield State Park."

Images for kids

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  A park ranger speaks to reenactors at the park, 2012

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  Displays in the Overton-Hillsman House

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  Exhibits at the visitor center

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  Items for sale in the gift shop

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  Lands along the Confederate Overlook Trail

See Also

• List of Virginia state parks

External Links

• Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park web page
• Overton-Hillsman House - Wayside Marker