The President’s column

  

February 10, 2008

Dear TSBF Members and Supporters,

It has been a long time since we gave you a report.  However, we have been busier than ever with the daily work of trying to preserve one of the most important battlefields in Virginia.

In December 2004 we undertook the largest debt in the history of our organization with the $1,760,000 purchase of 939 acres of core battlefield.  We undertook this massive purchase with a plan to repay all of the money in a short time.  While we are pleased to report that the debt has been reduced to a little over $350,000, we are daily trying to bring in the additional money to retire the debt.

Yet this did not hamper our pursuit of other property.  Working with the Civil War Preservation Trust, we have just acquired 170 acres of the Dunn Farm, scene of intense fighting during the second day of the battle.  Using a $370,000 Transportation Enhancement grant, the CWPT sold the property to TSBF and currently holds a note on the property for $92,500.  Our thanks go out to them for the year of working together on the acquisition of the property.  The total price was $500,000.  This brings the total land preserved at the Trevilian Station Battlefield to 2000 acres.

At this time I must recognize the efforts of our board that remains intact for another two-year term: Kathy Stiles (vice-president), Dave Spearman (secretary), B. Martin (treasurer), and Ed and Charlaine Crebbs.  These board members have remained steadfastly dedicated to the cause through many critical times.  Ed and Charlaine are also founding members of our organization.

We certainly appreciate your support in preserving this important American landmark.  As we are an all-volunteer organization, every dollar we receive goes toward the preservation of the battlefield in some manner.

On April 5, 2008 we will gather at the Dunn Farm for Park Clean-up Day.  This annual event sponsored by the CWPT is our chance to gather and clean up an historic Civil War battlefield.  The Dunn Farm is located at 662 South Spotswood Trail.  Follow Rt. 22/33 to Trevilians, take a right towards Gordonsville, and go 6/10 of a mile.  Turn right across the tracks, and take an immediate right.  Go to the end of the road at the big white house.  Please call 434 589-8989 or 540 967-1832 and let us know if you can help.

We look forward to your continued support in any manner that you see fit.

Sincerely,

Gerald W. Harlow

President, TSBF