Shared by Brian Morris, as Guest Blogger.

The Maple Leaf Escape!

False Cape State Park is holding an event on Saturday, June 30, 2012 from 8:00a.m. – 11:00a.m. to commemorate the Tidewater area’s involvement in The Civil War. 

In 1863, 70 confederate soldiers and officers were being transported as prisoners on the USS Maple Leaf.  The prisoners managed to escape only to find themselves isolated in the sparsely inhabited area of Princess Anne County near the North Carolina border.  Through the help of local southern sympathizers, the prisoners were able to escape to the safety of North Carolina.

Follow in the footsteps of escaped Confederate soldiers!

On Saturday, June 30^th, come out to False Cape State Park for an escape back in time, following in the footsteps of Confederate soldiers as they fled from Union imprisonment and evaded cavalry pursuit.

This program includes a short, 1 mile hike and will allow visitors to experience the camp life of Civil War soldiers by playing games and enjoying the food and dress of the era.

The cost for this program is $8 per person.  The program will depart from Little Island City Park. 

Reservations are required for this event.  Please call 757-426-7128 to make your reservation today!

If you aren’t able to make it to this event, check out the Virginia State Parks event page to find an event at your local state park.

False Cape State Park is located in Virginia Beach, Virginia: