Yorktown, VA

War has been responsible in the past for making an unknown or overlooked community a site of importance. Dunkirk during World War II and Gettysburg during the American Civil War are prime examples. On a beautiful spring morning, I visited another such site. Yorktown is another example of a small community that will always be remembered as the site where last major victory in the American Revolution which helped the colonies achieve their independence from England. 

After losing manpower and the support of the people to the south, General Lord Charles Cornwallis directed his army northward to Yorktown where his force could be resupplied by British warships that could enter the deep York river. However, Continental forces from the south, George Washington's army from the north, and French troops under General Rochambeau encircled Yorktown and laid siege. With the help of the French navy, the Continentals cut off any avenue of escape. Following a disastrous attempt to escape across the river, Cornwallis and his force capitulated. Over 7,000 British and German troops surrendered after the 19 day siege. Interestingly, Cornwallis did not attend the surrender (claiming he was ill). Additionally, even though the British force was beaten, it was noted that they attempted to break and damage their muskets as the surrendered-throwing them against the ground. 

Being able to see the old village, the earthworks lined with cannon, and the visitors center was an enjoyable and informational experience. Some of the artifacts, which included Cornwallis' personal table and a silk military flag from 1770, were in incredible condition. Being able to walk on such an important site where historical significance exists in every plot of land is simply amazing. 

The experience I had at Yorktown is an example of my overall experience during this week long trip following the Revolutionary War in the south. It was exciting to visit places that I had only read about while learning more about sites I had visited before. Each battlefield, fort, and town had a unique story but each had a level of importance that should most certainly be remembered. Lastly, this trip reminded me of the sacrifices and struggle that the forefathers of America had to endure in order to achieve independence. If anything, this trip will keep that in the forefront of my mind for a while.

Cowpens Battlefield

It looks like golf course that has been abandoned, with small ridges, ditches, and creeks running across the land. A dirt road covered with pebbles and stones divide the property in half while trees and brush are scattered across the land previously used for grazing cattle. Currently, it looks like an normal, unimpressive plot of land. However, it was on this site that one of the most important battles of the American Revolution took place—an engagement that directly impacted the independence of the colonies.

The Cowpens Battlefield was an exciting place to visit. I always enjoy touring battlefields and it was especially interesting to be able to see the battlefield with the most knowledgeable person on the subject. Dr. Lawrence Babits, who authored the book A Devil of a Whipping, led my fellow students and myself and told us about the small details of the battle which made it fascinating as well as enlightening. The details of the battlefield that Babits knows are quite incredible.

The battle took place on January 17, 1781. It was a chilling day, with gnawing temperature. The day I visited the battlefield it was quite warm and the glowing sun burned some of the group. During the pivotal engagement, Continental commander Daniel Morgan and his force of militiamen and regular soldiers thrashed a British force. Banastre Tarelton’s British command suffered immense casualties and not only were they whipped physically (many were killed and before the battle they were exhausted to begin with), but they were also whipped tactically. Morgan chose the battleground and prepared his men well for the fight. In the end, the American force won because of grit, preparation, and ultimately a little luck.

Touring battlefields is one of my favorite pastimes. Not only was I able to walk on this hallowed ground, I was able to do so with an expert on the subject that provided unparalleled insight into the struggle. Cowpens was an engagement that greatly dampened the resolve of the British army and damaged their optimism. While visiting this battlefield, I was reminded as to why I love history and why I find it fascinating. There is always something new to learn, some new knowledge to gain, and this visit to the Cowpens provided that.

Charleston, South Carolina

Rich in history and home to lovely residences lined with Palmetto Trees, Charleston is a true historical gem. My first visit to Charleston focused primarily on Antebellum history and the role that the port city played in the American Civil War. However, during this visit I became even more impressed with Charleston’s great historical significance. One of the four largest port cities in the colonies during the American Revolution, Charleston boasts a site of historical significance everywhere a tourist looks. Everywhere I turned, I came into contact with important sites that impacted American independence and the development of the United States.

One of my favorite sites to visit was the St. Philip’s Episcopal Church which is located on the appropriately named Church Street. The churches of the colorful city are rich in history. The architecture represents the popular styles of the era, famous individuals are interred in local cemeteries (such as John C. Calhoun and Charles Pinckney), and lastly, it was an incredible step back in time to enter houses of worship that founders—such as George Washington—found inspiration and strength. The churches were incredible to see, but Charleston offers much more.

The Old Slave Market, the Exchange Building, and Charleston Bay are all wonderful places to see. I could see Fort Sumter across the water, an impressive structure still looking over the waters of South Carolina. Yet the one aspect of this visit that I enjoyed the most—and learned the most from—was reading historical plaques in front of the multitude of gorgeous Southern homes in the town. I was able to learn about the early commerce of the city and the roles that these past colonist had during the American Revolution. Some men strove to separate from Britain while others actively tried to prevent the separation between England and her colonies. Being able to stand in front of the home of Thomas Heyward Jr.—a signer of the Declaration of Independence—and picture what 1776 in Charleston was like was phenomenal but also easy to do because of the historical atmosphere that is radiantly prevalent in the city. In the end, everywhere I turned I came into contact with homes, structures, and streets that had a massive impact on American independence.

One is in awe by the massive presence of America’s past in Charleston. In fact, it would be quite easy to forget about time as one strolls the streets of the famed port city—something that did in fact impact our trip as some students became overwhelmed by the rich history and lost track of time. Nevertheless, Charleston is a historical city that can only be rivaled by a select few. It has beautiful buildings. It has tremendous history. Lastly, it is one of my favorite cities to visit. I enjoyed seeing Fort Sumter and the Heyward-Washington home during my previous visit. This visit though has been more in-depth and has given me a greater understanding of Charleston’s invaluable place in the history of this country.

Poplar Forest

                                            Poplar Forest: A House Built To Escape Another

            Over 450,000 visitors tour the grounds of the famed residence Monticello every single year. Surging across the property, these tourists snap a myriad of pictures as they gaze upon the home of one of the famed founding fathers of the United States. Interestingly, Monticello experienced a similar barrage of callers when its celebrated occupant resided there. Thomas Jefferson opened his home to a variety of guests. These guests—sometimes numbering in the dozens—would stay for weeks, inadvertently causing strain on the staff of the mansion and Jefferson himself. Already famous, Jefferson and his beloved home experienced an influx in guests following his presidential election. Desperately desiring solitude for study and relaxation, Jefferson decided to construct a hermitage—a home away from home. From that desire, Jefferson began construction of his new home in 1806. The site is a historical gem often overlooked by the public. During the fall of this year, I visited Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson’s retreat. While underwhelming and lacking the same flare of Monticello, Poplar Forest has its own unique story, sublime beauty, and is underrated as well as fascinating.

            The property that the house sits on was not owned by Thomas Jefferson until 1773. Over 4,800 acres, the prosperous plantation was bequeathed to Thomas and Martha Jefferson by Martha’s father. Jefferson only visited the property on occasion, but the property was extremely valuable to him. Always struggling with debt, Jefferson was grateful for the plantation because it provided much needed income. It was not until 1806 that Jefferson began to construct the home that he would ultimately visit three to four times a year. Usually, his visits coincided with the seasonal responsibilities of planting and reaping crops. Besides his immediate family, no one accompanied Jefferson to Poplar Forest. It was his place for relaxing, reading, and rejuvenating. After being privately owned by the Jefferson family and other families for decades, the house was purchased by a non-profit organization in 1983 that began to restore the home of the former president. Today, that organization manages the estate, runs a visitor center and gift shop, and provides tours for those few who discover this historical site.

            The house itself, which is the focal point of the visit, is a mix of ancient designs and cutting edge architecture of the 1800s. Possibly the first octagonal home in America, Jefferson oversaw the construction of a home that included skylights, alcove beds, and indoor toilets. On some occasions, Jefferson would visit the home to observe the construction. Riding by horse all the way from Washington D.C., the president traveled alone without guards to protect him. “When finished,” Jefferson declared, “it will be the best dwelling house in the state.” Besides the home, Jefferson also focused on the landscaping around his retreat. Planting mulberry trees on either side of the home, Jefferson also decided to form two massive mounds of earth flanking both sides of Poplar Forest—a style he found appealing while he was in Europe. Before long, the house began to take form and Jefferson’s creativity had made its permanent mark.

            An important aspect of Poplar Forest that should not be overlooked is the importance of laborers and slaves. Together, laborers and slaves helped construct the home, keep the grounds beautiful, and provide Jefferson with crops that would feed his family and alleviate the burden of massive debts. Encouraging hard work, Jefferson paid his slaves incentives and also granted them free time during nights and weekends. Although 94 people lived in bondage on the plantation, they were cared for; however, the irony of slaves being owned by a man who penned the words, “All men are created equal,” is obvious.

            Today, the property consists of only 600 acres compared to the original 4,800. Nevertheless the home and the remaining acres are well maintained. I have been to a number of sites that, while they are protected, have been left to fall apart. The organizations that own the properties have protected the site from destruction but not decay. Poplar Forest on the other hand is maintained relatively well. While a majority of the home is being renovated to replicate Jefferson’s retreat in the early 1800s, I think it is more fascinating to see the home in this manner. When I took the tour, I was able to see the structure of the octagonal home more clearly. Seeing the skeleton of the home, I got a better understanding of the blueprint and it showed me the true architectural prowess of Jefferson.

            Some would lament that Poplar Forest is not visited as often as Monticello. However, I think that is a testament as to why Thomas Jefferson built the home. The property is beautiful, relaxing, peaceful, and supposed to be hidden from the busyness of life. It is not swarmed by tourists like Monticello. The portrayal of the modern-day Poplar Forest replicates the same feeling of relaxation and peacefulness that Jefferson intended the property to have. Besides thoroughly enjoying this site, I found it fascinating that both of the homes that Jefferson designed continue to imitate the same type of attention that the properties received when the third president of the United States was alive. Monticello is flooded with tourists and houses some of Jefferson’s most notable collections. Poplar Forest is less visited, but admired for its simpler beauty and placid environment. I think that Thomas Jefferson would be very pleased to know that his beloved retreat is still a hidden gem—that was his intent. Jefferson’s dream came into fruition, and the volunteers that manage the property today continue to uphold and portray the home in the way it was meant to be by its designer.