Shared by Matthew Reusch, as Guest Blogger.

Virginia State Parks have so much history and it’s helpful when staff go the extra mile to learn more about the park and the history. Matt Reusch is the Lead Interpretive Ranger at High Bridge Trail State Park and has put together some details about the Civil War battle that took place in Farmville and how it ties into the park.

The Battle

The Battle of Farmville took place just two days before the Confederate surrender at Appomattox Court House. General Robert E. Lee and his Army of Northern Virginia made a desperate attempt to secure supplies and prolong their fight against the Union army. Lee managed to secure rations for some of his men and regroup after their defeat at the Battle of Sailor's Creek.

Farmville's railroads and supply depots were strategically important. Union forces, led by Generals Philip Sheridan and George Meade, pressed forward, leading to skirmishes along the way. The rolling fields and woodlands of Farmville became the stage for intense combat, with soldiers on both sides fighting bravely. The town became a critical juncture as buildings turned into makeshift hospitals and residents found themselves amidst the fighting. The once peaceful town echoed with gunfire and the cries of the wounded.

To slow down the Union forces, Lee ordered all bridges around Farmville to be burned, including High Bridge. Union forces managed to save High Bridge and attempted to save other crossings. Confederate troops engaged them from the town's outskirts using cannon and rifle fire.  

During the battle, Confederate soldiers tried to destroy other rail bridges near Farmville. Captain William Ludgate, an English-born veteran, volunteered to secure the bridge. Ludgate described the scene:

“After marching for about two miles, we saw the railroad bridge. Because of the steep bank, about twenty feet high on either side, I couldn't see the enemy and ordered my men to proceed quickly. Just then, I saw a Union soldier waving his flag frantically, signaling us to return. The signal came too late; the enemy had opened fire from their protected position. Our men were surprised and about to retreat, but I managed to rally them. Some rebels ran down the embankment to capture us but were disappointed; we captured all of them. I ordered my men to the top of the embankment and opened fire. Although surrounded by a much larger force, my men stood their ground with heroic courage, only giving in when our ammunition was gone.”

Captain Ludgate and his soldiers were captured but were released two days later when Lee surrendered on April 9th. Ludgate received the Medal of Honor in 1889, twenty-four years after the battle. He lived until 1912.

High Bridge Trail honors its history

Thanks to the work of park rangers at High Bridge Trail State Park, the location of this action has been identified. This remarkable story, once lost to time, has been rediscovered and will be shared with visitors. The park plans to place a marker detailing the events of April 7th, honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who fought. Visitors can now enjoy the trail and learn about these incredible stories from the past.

Be sure to plan your visit today as a one day trip or take an extended trip and check out this itinerary blog that explains the best way to visit 5 parks in the Farmville area.