Hidden Military Roads Of Virginia’s Colonial Parkway

Have you ever wondered about the hidden military roads of Virginia's Colonial Parkway? This scenic route, connecting Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, holds more than just beautiful views. Beneath its picturesque surface lies a network of secret paths used during wartime. These roads played crucial roles in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, offering strategic advantages to troops. Imagine driving along the parkway, knowing that beneath your wheels, soldiers once marched and cannons rolled. Join us as we uncover the fascinating history and stories behind these hidden military roads, revealing a side of the Colonial Parkway that few ever see.
Hidden Military Roads of Virginia's Colonial Parkway
Virginia's Colonial Parkway is more than just a scenic drive connecting historic sites. Beneath its picturesque surface lies a network of hidden military roads, each with its own story. Let's uncover some of these secretive paths.
1. Yorktown Battlefield
Yorktown Battlefield is where General Cornwallis surrendered to George Washington, ending the Revolutionary War. But did you know there are hidden military roads here?
- Redoubts 9 and 10: These fortifications were crucial during the siege. Hidden paths connect them, used by soldiers to move undetected.
- Surrender Field: The road leading to this field was a secret route for British troops during their final march.
2. Jamestown Island
Jamestown Island, the first permanent English settlement, holds more than just colonial history. Hidden military roads crisscross the island, remnants of past conflicts.
- Glasshouse Point: A hidden road leads to this historic site, where early settlers made glass. It was also a strategic point during the Civil War.
- Fort Pocahontas: This earthen fort has hidden paths used by Confederate soldiers to transport supplies.
3. Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum, but beneath its charming streets lie hidden military roads from various eras.
- Governor's Palace: Secret paths connected the palace to nearby military outposts, ensuring the governor's safety.
- Bruton Parish Church: Hidden roads around this church were used to move troops and supplies discreetly during the Revolutionary War.
4. Fort Eustis
Fort Eustis, an active military base, has a rich history dating back to World War I. Hidden roads here played crucial roles in training and logistics.
- Mulberry Island: This area has hidden roads used for transporting troops and equipment during training exercises.
- Skiffes Creek: A secret route along this creek was vital for moving supplies during wartime.
5. Fort Monroe
Fort Monroe, known as the "Gibraltar of the Chesapeake," has a labyrinth of hidden military roads within its walls.
- Moat Road: This hidden path runs along the fort's moat, used for quick troop movements.
- Casemate Museum: Beneath this museum lies a network of secret tunnels and roads used during the Civil War.
6. Fort Magruder
Fort Magruder, a key site during the Civil War, has hidden military roads that tell tales of strategy and survival.
- Redoubt Park: This park preserves several redoubts connected by hidden paths used by Confederate soldiers.
- Quarterpath Road: A secret route used to transport supplies and reinforcements during the Battle of Williamsburg.
7. Fort Boykin
Fort Boykin, overlooking the James River, has hidden military roads that date back to the 1600s.
- River Road: This hidden path was used to move cannons and supplies to the fort.
- Old Fort Road: A secret route connecting the fort to nearby settlements, crucial during times of conflict.
8. Fort Huger
Fort Huger, another Civil War site, has hidden military roads that played key roles in its defense.
- Battery Road: This hidden path connected various batteries within the fort, allowing for quick troop movements.
- Riverbank Road: A secret route along the riverbank used for transporting supplies and reinforcements.
9. Fort Norfolk
Fort Norfolk, a War of 1812 site, has hidden military roads that reveal its strategic importance.
- Water Battery Road: This hidden path connected the fort to its water battery, crucial for defense.
- Powder Magazine Road: A secret route used to transport gunpowder and ammunition safely.
10. Fort Wool
Fort Wool, located on a man-made island, has hidden military roads that tell stories of coastal defense.
- Island Road: This hidden path connected various parts of the fort, used for quick troop movements.
- Tunnel Road: A secret route beneath the fort used for transporting supplies and reinforcements.
Discovering Virginia's Hidden Military Roads
Exploring Virginia's hidden military roads along the Colonial Parkway offers a unique glimpse into the past. These roads, once vital for military operations, now serve as quiet reminders of history. Walking or driving through these paths, you can almost feel the echoes of soldiers and the strategic importance they once held.
The Colonial Parkway itself is a scenic route connecting Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. Each stop along the way provides a deeper understanding of America's early history. The hidden military roads add another layer to this rich tapestry, making the journey even more fascinating.
Whether you're a history buff or just love a good adventure, these hidden roads are worth exploring. They offer a peaceful, reflective experience that connects you to the past in a tangible way. So next time you're in Virginia, take a detour and uncover these hidden gems.