"BLACK THURSDAY" - 160th Sailor's Creek Anniversary Re-enactment

Step back in time with us on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park for a powerful commemoration of what the South grimly called “Black Thursday," the decisive battle that helped seal the fate of the Confederacy. From 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., relive one of the American Civil War’s most intense engagements as Union and Confederate public historians bring this hallowed ground to life with stirring reenactments and immersive living history experiences.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to honor the brave men who fought at Sailor’s Creek and witness living history at its most vivid, an event that forever altered our nation’s destiny.

Morning Arrival & Logistics (9:00 a.m.)
Parking & Shuttle: Begin at the Kershaw Overlook parking area at 9:00 a.m., where free parking and shuttle service will be available. You’ll be transported to the historic Hillsman House, where local civilians will demonstrate the crucial relief efforts provided to Confederate forces during their retreat.

Morning Tactical Demonstration (11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
Location: Hillsman House to Sailor’s Creek
Highlights: Immerse yourself in the roar of artillery, thunder of cavalry, and determined infantry maneuvers. This hour-long reenactment sets the stage for the day’s dramatic events, culminating near the creek that witnessed such ferocious combat.

Between the morning and afternoon clashes, take time to engage with both Union and Confederate living historians right along the creek, discovering the personal stories, military strategies, and daily realities that shaped this pivotal conflict. This portion of the program is self-guided and will include elevation changes, uneven terrain, and walking several hundred yards. Please wear closed-toe shoes and dress comfortably.

Afternoon Tactical Demonstration (2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.)
Location: Kershaw Overlook
Highlights: Watch the Union army mount a decisive assault on the hillside, ultimately capturing Confederate troops in a scene that changed the course of the war. This compelling hour-long demonstration puts you front and center for one of the most crucial turning points of 1865.

Their War is Over: Prisoners, Casualties, and Their Unknown Destinations (7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.)
Location: Hillsman House
Highlights: Step into a captivating after-dark, self-guided experience featuring a working hospital, artillery park, and prisoner processing station. By lantern light, feel the stark aftermath of battle and gain a sobering glimpse into the harsh realities soldiers endured once the fighting ceased. For more details, visit the Sailor’s Creek events page on our website.

Additional Information
Admission: All programs are open and FREE to the public.
Comfort & Amenities: Bring lawn chairs and dress for rapidly changing weather. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Portions of the program are self-guided and will include elevation changes, uneven terrain, and walking several hundred yards. Please wear closed-toe shoes and dress comfortably.
Rain or Shine: The commemoration will take place regardless of weather conditions.

Please call (804) 561-7510 or email sailorscreek@dcr.virginia.gov for questions and more information. Visit Homespun Historical Ventures for re-enactor registration and information.

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