22 Acres Acquired at New Market

Land was Part of Historic Bushong Farm

NEW MARKET, Virginia — The Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation (SVBF) has announced the acquisition of the 22-acre Abel Property on the New Market battlefield, land that was heavily involved during the May 15, 1864, battle.  This property was once part of the famed Bushong Farm, and is the site where Col. George S. Patton’s 22nd Virginia troops fought desperately to drive the Federals northward and where cannon roared in support of Confederate attacks that afternoon.

The property was acquired thanks to members and donors. With no grant funding for the project, $325,000 in private funds was raised for the acquisition, including assistance from the American Battlefield Trust.

The Battlefields Foundation is announcing this acquisition in conjunction with National Preservation Month.

The SVBF is also racing to save another 52-acre parcel at New Market before the end of this week.  The Foundation hopes to be able to announce the second acquisition during events to commemorate the Battle of New Market this Saturday, May 13.

“It will be a spectacular end to the day,” said Keven Walker, CEO of the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation.  “We plan to celebrate the acquisition of both parcels by firing a full-scale salute, featuring 10 cannon. It will be something to see – and hear.”

That ceremony will be the closing event during a day-long series of free talks, tours, and demonstrations to commemorate the 159th Anniversary of the battle, highlighting the actions and role of artillery during the fighting.  The programs, which will begin at 9am, will be held at sites throughout New Market – climaxing with the thunderous closing program at 6pm.

View looking across the newly acquired property