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HRAB 02-19-02 Meeting AgendaCOUNTY of FREDERICX Department of Planning and Development 5401665-5651 FAX: 540/665-6395 TO: Historic Resources Advisory Board FROM: Rebecca Ragsdale, Planner I RE: February Meeting Agenda DATE: February 12, 2002 The Frederick County Historic Resources Advisory Board (HRAB) will be meeting on Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 7:30 p.m., in the Board of Supervisors' Executive Session Room*. This is the conference room next to the American Flag in the Board Room. Access to the room should only be from the back door that goes directly into the Board Room of the Frederick County Administration Building, 107 North Kent Street, Winchester, Virginia. The HRAB will discuss the following items: AGENDA Review of request by Charles E. Maddox, Jr., P.E. of Gilbert W. Clifford & Associates, Inc. to rezone 159 acres from the RA (Rural Areas) District to the RP (Residential Performance) District. The property is located at the corner of Woods Mill Road and Route 7, east of the City of Winchester 2. Other. Please contact this office if you will not be able to attend this meeting. Thank you. *PLEASE NOTE NEW MEETING LOCATION! Access to this building is limited during the evening hours. Therefore, it will be necessary to enter the building through the rear door of the Board Room. I would encourage committee members to park in the county parking lot located behind the new addition (accessible off of Cameron Street). 107 North Kent Street • Winchester, Virginia 22601-5000 Item # I Rezoning Red Bud Run Mr. Chuck Maddox of G. W. Clifford & Associates, Inc. has requested that the Historic Resources Advisory Board comment on a rezoning application, Red Bud Run. The property is located north and adjacent to US Route 7, east and adjacent to Morgan Mill Road, located directly between Red Bud Road and Route 7. The applicant is requesting that 159 acres of the property be rezoned from RA to RP. The property is currently undeveloped and the proposed land use would be 300 single family homes. The site is located within core areas of the Opequon/Third Battle of Winchester and the Second Battle of Winchester. Information is provided in your agenda as to the significance of these portions ofthe battlefields. The applicant has plans to mitigate the impacts ofdevelopment in this historic area through open space planning and preservation corridors. Approximately 30% of the site would be preserved through environmental and historic corridors along Red Bud Run and Route 7. The Rural Landmarks Survey identifies the Third Battle of Winchester as a potential historic district and this includes part of the subject property. Six historic structures identified in the Rural Landmarks Survey are located adjacent to the subject property. The location of these structures is shown on Figure 10 in your agenda packet. Two of these structures are listed as "potentially significant" in the Rural Landmarks Survey: The Wood-Sibell House and the C. W. Miller House. Three of the historic structures, including the C. W. Miller House, are located on a parcel not included in the rezoning but surrounded by the largest tract of the rezoning. The applicant has proffered a monetary proffer of $5,434.00 per lot to be paid at the time a building permit is applied for each lot. The monetary proffer is to be distributed among the County Schools, Parks and Recreation, Fire and Rescue, the Public Library, the Sheriff's office and a new Administration building. Also proffered is a generalized development plan which shows areas of preservation. Included in this agenda: 1. Rezoning Application 2. Historic Sites and Structures information Proffer Statement 4. Generalized Development Plan U:\ COMMITTEESWRAB\Agendas12002 AgendasTebmaryagenda.wpd REZONING APPLICATION FORINT FREDERICK COUNTY, VIRGINIA The following information shall be provided by the applicant: All parcel identification numbers, deed book and page numbers may be obtained from the Office of the Commissioner of Revenue, Real Estate Division, 107 North Kent Street, Winchester. 1. Applicant: Name: Gilbert W. Clifford & Associates, Inc. Telephone: 667-2139 Address: c/o C. E. Maddox, Jr., P.E., VP 117 E. Piccadilly Street, Suite 200, Winchester, Virginia 22601 2. Property Owner (if different than above) Name: Patrick A. McTiernan Thomas M. McTiernan Address: 3. Contact person if other than above Telephone: (540) 667-1494 (540) 662-5712 Name: Charles E. Maddox, Jr., P.E_ Telephone: 540-667-2139 G.W. Clifford & Associates, Inc. 4. Checklist: Check the following items that have been included with this application. Location Map x Agency Comments Plat x Fees Deed of property x Impact Analysis Statement x Verification of taxes paid x Proffer Statement x 1 5. The Code of Virginia allows us to request full disclosure of ownership in relation to rezoning applications. Please list below all owners or parties in interest of the land to be rezoned: Patrick A McTiernan Thomas M. McTiernan 6. A) Current Use of the Property: B) Proposed Use of the Property: 7. Adjoining Property: See Attached PARCEL ID NUMBER USE Vacant. Undeveloped & One SF Dwelling SF Detached ZONING 8. Location: The property is located at (give exact location based on nearest road and distance from nearest intersection, using road names and route numbers). North and Adjacent to US Route 7, east and adjacent to Morgan Mill Road (Rt. 656) located directly between Red Bud Road and US Route 7. 2 I Information to be Submitted for Capital Facilities Impact Model In order for the Planning Staff to use its capital facilities impact model, it is necessary for the applicant to provide information concerning the specifics of the proposed use. Otherwise, the planning staff will use the maximum possible density of intensity scenario for the proposed Zoning District as described on page 9 of the application package. 9. Parcel Identification/Location: Parcel Identification Number 55-A-105. 106. 107 & 107A Districts Magisterial: Stonewall High School: Millbrook (new) Fire Service: Greenwood Middle School: James Wood Rescue Service: Greenwood Elementary School: Red Bud Run 10. Zoning Change: List the acreage included in each new zoning category being requested. Acres Current Zoning Zoning Requested 159 RA RP 159 1 Total acreage to be rezoned 11. The following information should be provided according to the type of rezoning proposed: Number of Units Proposed Single Family Home 300 Townhome Non -Residential Lots Mobile Home Office Retail Restaurant Square Footage of Proposed Uses Service Station Manufacturing Warehouse Other Multi -Family Hotel Rooms 3 w �� .-.• v�wa mm _ airy �'"� _ •r - } �,--.n. .,. .•---..—...il.= iy ..w.v'1... .._.........>.. nim. 1. ] ii Y= 10 �as �•,.T AS b6.. h hoolsCD • J r Project Site Bud U Un' m S 4r -„ ems` f • Oa. A �.. tin'' .. ,• r , s �T i k '"-- ,fF_ RED BUD RUN VICIMITY MAP COUNTY OF FREDERICK, VIRGINIA Figure 2 gilbert w. Clifford sit associates, inc. Engineers Land Planners Water Quality 117 E. Picadilly St. Winchester, Virginia 22601 Voice: 540-667-2139 Fax: 540-665-0493 Email: gwcliff@mnsinc-coni Red Bud Run Impact Analysis Statement I. Historic Sites and Structures Figure 10 defines historic structures in the area which are listed on the County's historic inventory. The site of Woods Mill and structures will be preserved by open space in the development plan. Figures 12 and 13 depict the battlefield plans for the Second and Third Battle of Winchester, which do impact the subject site. A close review of available accounts of the second battle indicates troop movements, primarily flanking maneuvers, used Berryville Pike (Route 7) and Woods Mill Road as a course of the battle. The Third Battle (Battle of the Opequon) was intense with the majority of General Sheridan's troops moving along Berryville Pike in the morning of September 19, 1864. This movement met stiff resistance from a single brigade of CSA troops commanded by General Ramseur from the vicinity of the ridge to the south of the `Berryville Canyon," in areas which are now Pioneer Heights and Shenandoah Hills. Contrary to the plan for battle, Union forward elements carried wagons which significantly slowed the Union advance. The National Park Service has designated portions of the McTiernan land as core battlefield, since primary troop movements to avoid the Ramseur resistance occurred across the site. The Third Battle, in the afternoon to the west of this site, resulted in a major confrontation between the two armies with many casualties. The action resulted in a major defeat of General Early's command which began the end of Confederate power in the Shenandoah Valley and likely contributed to the reelection of Abraham Lincoln. Attached are accounts of the battle used by the Frederick County Planning Staff which provide substantial description. To mitigate impacts on the effects of historical interpretation of the battles an open space plan has been created, using topographic and vegetative buffers. Open space planning for the project will provide an environmental and historical preservation corridor along Red Bud Run and along Virginia Route 7 corridor. Figure 11 shows a preliminary plan of this approach. Approximately 30% of this site will be preserved, with limits based on final design. Sax 1 Lig—d- Wtrk C;,I ','V— ib 'd 8ude'aegs and :ava-s a+ 4 ixcndary Roan _ C, 4— Dec= 1! 7al Re.d rt F�t 49 WT~ . . . .......... 0 Alp 41. 07 LVwuk CtvlWm 3=dw3wd L—&mm Naa-g S.,— Roads FMQWorss,snd x C-6- %euwei.Asxxed SmUrs� 5.,dy A—j �`�''�����,�8f -igure 12 Z S 'Winchester Battlef"'i"eld �aconcl I A7 I IN C L H, I TO R 1 C ED S TIR 1 T Sax 1 Lig—d- Wtrk C;,I ','V— ib 'd 8ude'aegs and :ava-s a+ 4 ixcndary Roan _ C, 4— Dec= 1! 7al Re.d rt F�t 49 WT~ . . . .......... 0 Alp 41. 07 LVwuk CtvlWm 3=dw3wd L—&mm Naa-g S.,— Roads FMQWorss,snd x C-6- %euwei.Asxxed SmUrs� 5.,dy A—j �`�''�����,�8f -igure 12 Z S 'Winchester Battlef"'i"eld �aconcl I A7 I DS i 'Cj "d Z', L H, 1 4S TC' P, D! T R I'— T a p E - -10- R qure 13 rdW'nL.L_ fieSCer D'attlefield We 4 S NA �,i 0 'CL GA T : z-: F - 51 ,D5 n11 A 0^:A_ =i5 T C C D 1 S T R ! C T, S :z P T 3 2 "' iD CML WAR SITES IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA SECOND WINCFIESTER Virginia ever did" The battle was won by deft flanking (13-15 JUNE 1863) maneuvers and underscores the inadequacy of relying on entrenchments when confronted by a mobile attacking force. County: Frederick VA, and City of Winchester General Location: Valley Pike (US 11 at Abrams Creek), Apple Pie Ridge and "Louisiana Heights" W of town, West Fort, Fort Milroy, and Star Fort; S. of present day Stephenson's (US 11 S of 761). Size of Study/Core Areas: 22,274/3,113 acres GIS Integrity of Study/Core Areas: 48/52 percent; Poor/ Fair Field Assessment of Study Area integrity: Poor USGS Quadrants: Winchester, Stephenson Campaign: Gettysburg Campaign Principal Commanders: [c] Lt Gen. Richard S. Ewell; [u] Maj. Gen. Robert H. Milroy. Forces Engaged. [c] Second Corps ANV, two divisions (Early and Johnson), about 12,500; [u] Three infantry brigades (Elliott, Ely, McReynolds), numbering about 7,000. Casualties: [c] 269 (47k/219w/3m); [u] 4,443 (95k/373w/ 3,975m&c). Significance: After the Battle of Brandy Station (9 June 1863), Gen. Robert E. Lee launched his plan for a second invasion of the north. He ordered the Second Corps, Army of Northern Virginia, under Maj. Gen. Richard Ewell to attack the US force at Winchester and clear the Lower Valley of Union opposition. In the resulting three- day battle (13-15 June), Ewell's corps defeated, routed, and nearly destroyed a US division under Maj. Gen. Robert Milroy. This victory (the apogee of Ewell s career) offered high hopes for the success of Lee's second invasion of the North, hopes that were dashed on the battlefield of Gettysburg in July. In the words of Confederate artillerist Maj. Robert Stiles, "This battle of Winchester ... was one of the most perfect pieces of work the Army of Northern 71 DEscRn oN OF THE BATTLE Prelude (12 June): On 12 June 1863, the Second Corps of the Army of Northern Virginia under Lt Gen. Richard S. Ewell, three divisions nearly 19,000 strong, entered the Valley at Chester Gap and pressed on to Front RoyaL Two divisions under Maj. Gen. Jubal A. Early and Maj. Gen. Edward Johnson continued north on the Valley Pike and the Front Royal Road to converge on the Union defenders of Winchester under Maj. Gen. Robert Milroy. Despite the superior forces that were rumored to be approaching, Milroy was confident that the strength of his fortifications would enable him to repel the Confederates or withstand a siege. The ridges west of town were heavily fortified and consisted of trenches linking central strong points or "forts". The strongest of these were Fort Milroy and Star Fort West Fort, a redoubt of six guns, featured promi- nently in the action. Phase One. US Dispositions (13 June): On 13 June, Milroy advanced elements of Elliott's brigade to Pritchard's Hill at Kernstown and sent elements of Ely's brigade to intercept any advance on the Front Royal Pike. McReynolds brigade was at Berryville. Phase Two. CS Advance on Front Royal Pike (13 June): Edward Johnson's Division of four brigades (Steuart, WEIiams, Walker, Jones) advanced on the Front Royal Pike driving back Union pickets. Approaching the intersection of Millwood Road about 1400 hours, Johnson deployed and swept forward, driving Union skirmishers from behind stone fences. US troops withdrew to high ground north of Abrams Creek under cover of a battery and the heavy guns of Fort Milroy. Johnson brought up a battery and engaged Union field artillery, driving several pieces from the field. The CS guns lacked the range to reply to Fort Milroy's guns and eventually were forced to withdraw. Johnson's.advance was stalled, and he awaited the arrival of Early's division to the west on the Valley Pike. Phase Three. CS Advance on Valley Pike (13 June): Early's division of four brigades (Hays, Smith, Avery, CML WAR SITES IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA Gordon) marched toward Winchester on the Valley Pike conjunction with Johnson's division on the Front Royal ..oad. Late afternoon, Early's column reached the outskirts of Kernstown and drove back the US skirmish line encountered at Pritchard's Hill. US forces retreated to Cedar Creek Grade and briefly counterattacked, but Early extended his line to the west, out -flanking successive Union positions. US cavalry attacked several times up the Valley Pike to ease pressure on the infantry. Eventually, the Union force retreated north of Abrams Creek under cover of the heavy guns from Bower's Hill and Fort Milroy. Phase Four. Milroy Withdraws into the Forts (13 June): After dark Milroy concentrated his forces inside a triangle defined by Fort Milroy,Star Fort, and West Fort McReynolds' brigade reached Fort Milroy after marching a round -about route from Berryville, harassed by Confed- erate cavalry. Milroy's soldiers had fought well during the previous afternoon, and he was confident that he could withstand renewed Confederate assaults in the morning. in the meantime, Ewell ordered his third division under Maj. Gen. Robert E. Rodes to advance on Martinsburg via erryville to cut off Milroy's retreat in that direction. Phase Five. Early's Flank March (14 June): At dawn of 14 June, one of Early's brigades (Gordon) swept forward to capture Bower's Hill with little resistance. Johnson extended his line to the right against very light opposition; there was fitful skirmishing in the streets of Winchester. Early and Ewell conferred on Bower's Hill and decided on a flanking strategy. Gordon's brigade and two batteries were left on Bower's Hill, while Early led his three other brigades back to Cedar Creek Grade, west beyond Apple Pie Ridge where it was out of view of US fortifications, then north over Cloverdale Plantation to Walnut Grove. His column was accompanied by 20 guns. While Early made this march, Johnson advanced a line of skirmishers on the right to occupy the Federals' attention. The CS batteries on Bower's Hill opened up, touching off a duel with the Union guns in Fort Milroy. By mid-afternoon, Early's force had gained a position opposite West Fort on Apple Pie Ridge. Eight guns were positioned on the Brierly Farm northwest of the fort, while 12 guns were placed in an orchard southwest of the fort By this time he field had quieted, and the US forces believed that the Confederates had been repulsed from Winchester. 72 Phase Six. Attack on West Fort (14 June): About 1800 hours, Early's artillery opened fire on West Fort The twenty guns fired for 45 minutes, while Brig. Gen. Harry T. Hays stealthily advanced his Louisiana brigade through the corn and wheat fields at the base of Apple Pie Ridge. On command, the brigade rushed forward across 300 yards of open fields and swept upward into the works. After a brief hand-to-hand struggle, US defenders aban- doned the works, retreating to Fort Milroy. Hays was supported in the attack by two brigades (Smith and Avery). Early consolidated his line on West Fort Ridge, but darkness prevented further gains. An artillery duel continued until long after dark After the battle, Ewell christened West Fort Ridge as "Louisiana Heights" in honor of Hays's brigade. Phase Seven. Johnson's Flank March (14-15 June): Ewell assumed that Milroy would retreat during the night and ordered Johnson to prevent his escape by cutting the Charles Town Road About 2100 hours, Johnson (with Steuart's and Williams's brigades and 8 guns) marched north to Berryville Pike and west to Jordan Springs Road, where he turned north toward Stephenson's Depot About midnight, the Stonewall brigade disengaged and joined the rear of the column, leaving one brigade (Jones) astride the Berryville Pike east of town. Phase Eight US Withdrawal (14-15 June): After confer- ring with his officers, Milroy made the decision to try to "cut their way through" to Harpers Ferry on the old Charles Town Road All of the cannons were spiked and their carriages destroyed Shortly after midnight, the Union soldiers left their works so quietly that Early's Confederates did not know they were gone until morning. The column massed in the low ground between Star Fort and Fort Milroy, then moved down the railroad and the Valley Pike toward the Charles Town crossroad, just south of Stephenson's Depot Phase Nine. US Surrender at Stephenson's Depot (15 June): Near dawn, Johnson's skirmishers encountered the head of Milroy's retreating column near the intersection of the Valley Pike and old Charles Town road Milroy faced his column to the right on the pike and prepared to fight his way out of a "murderous trap." Johnson deployed his regiments along Milburn Road as they came up and advanced to the railroad and placed two guns on either CIVIL WAR SITES IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA side of the Charles Town Road railroad bridge. The rest of the artillery was deployed on the heights east of Milburn Road. As it grew light, US forces made several desperate but uncoordinated attacks against the bridge and railroad embankment The Confederates were being steadily reinforced and repulsed each attempt The Stonewall brigade now came up in line of battle north of the road and advanced to cut the Valley Pike. This was the final blow;_Umon regiments hoisted the white flag. Between 2,500 and 3,000 surrendered Milroy and his staff, and other small units escaped to the west (Note: US casualty figures for Second Winchester vary widely. This is explained by the fact that about two thousand Union soldiers not belonging to Milroy's command were in field hospitals in the city and were often added to the number of captured and missing. Milroy, of course, played down his losses.) CURRENT CONDITION OF THE BATTI.EFIEID Contrary to popular perception, Second Winchester is not a "lost" battlefield Because of the wide-ranging Confederate maneuvers involved, the battlefield covers a great deal of ground, but the major fighting and casualties occurred at five locations: Pntchard's Hill, the intersection of Millwood and Front Royal pikes (interchange 82 of I- 81); Abrams Creek and Bower's Hill; Apple Pie Ridge and West Fort; and Stephenson's Depot Three of these locations retain high levels of integrity: Pntchard's Hill, Apple Pie Ridge and West Fort, and Stephenson's Depot The parcel of ground at Pritchard's Hill figured promi- nently in both battles of Kernstown and in the rear guard actions of Opequon. The parcel of ground at Stephenson's Depot figured in cavalry actions during the battle of Opequon and in the engagement of Rutherford's Fane (20 July 1864). Although the field over which the Louisiana Brigade attacked West Fort has been divided by the rte. 37 bypass, the terrain is still intact and adds to the interpretation of the battle. Central to understanding the Union ring of fortifica- tions at Winchester are Fort Milroy, Star Fort, and West Fort Of these, Star Fort is well preserved, while remnants survive of Fort Milroy and West Fort Portions of related entrenchments survive on ridges north and west of Winchester, although the extent of survivals has not been measured The view from Star Fort is essential for understanding the US position at Second Winchester. Access to Fort Milroy and creation of a viewshed among 73 trees would enhance the ability to interpret the Union situation. The routes of CS flanking maneuvers (Early to the west and Johnson to the east) can be followed Early's route traverses well preserved rural tracts north from Cedar Creek Grade along Apple Pie Ridge. The exact route can only be followed on foot across private property. Johnson's route crosses a portion of the Opequon battlefield and follows rural roads past Jordan Spring to the intersection of rtes. 761 and 11 near Stephenson. Much of this course is through scenic farmland, although the density of housing along segments of these roads is increasing. Driving this route offers an appreciation of CS strategy and of the final action at Stephenson's Depot Many historic structures associated with the battle remain in and around the city of Winchester, including Taylor's Hotel which served as the US headquarters, and Cloverdale and Walnut Grove, which were passed by Farlys flank march. PERCEPTION OF THREATS TO BATiuTmD The city of Winchester has grown up around the US defensive position, which was anchored by West Fort, Star Fort, Fort Milroy, and connecting entrenchments. In most cases, however, the ridge crests have been the last to develop as residential tracts have filled the valleys. As a result, Star Fort is well preserved; portions of Fort Milroy remain; and traces of West Fort can be located Recently, housing has been built along West Fort Ridge ("Louisiana Heights") destroying or otherwise segmenting surviving earthworks. The northern portion of Fort Milroy was recently purchased for the purpose of development; the southern portion is owned by National Fruit Products. Seven acres of Star Fort are owned by a local preservation group, but the surrounding 50 acres are zoned commer- caallbusiness and are currently for sale; portions of earthworks at Star Fort are in need of stabilization; grounds would need to be cleared, planted with grass, and maintained to expand visitation and interpretation. Commercial and industrial development along rte. 522 intrudes somewhat on the viewshed. Of the five main engagement areas, Bower's Hill is a housing subdivision and site of a high school, elementary school, and water tower. A degraded portion of the field (also fought over during First Winchester) remains along railroad tracks west of US 11, but this land is scheduled for high density residential development. Johnson's position QVU WAR SUES IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA on June 13-14 at the intersection of Front Royal and llwood pikes lies beneath I-81 interchange #82. Land ..ontours have been extensively altered and viewsheds blocked by dense commercial/industrial development in the vicinity. These two segments for most interpretive activities have been lost Pritchard's Hill is privately owned and remains in a relatively pristine state. The land between Pritchard's Hill and Bower's Hill has already been densely developed for residential and commercial purposes. The Apple Pie Ridge -West Fort parcel across which the Louisiana brigade attacked West Fort is bisected by rte. 37 -bypass but is visually well preserved, maintained as pasture and apple orchards. Two historic stone houses survive adjacent to the highway, which runs _through a ravine and is not particularly intrusive to the view from Apple Pie Ridge. An excellent vantage point for understanding this phase exists just south of the intersection of rtes. 522 and 679. The area south of Stephenson's Depot, site of the massive US surrender, is by far the best preserved parcel of Second Winchester. Except for power lines and towers, the land retains its Civil War appearance. This parcel covers much of the ground where the battle culminated, fere the most desperate fighting occurred and where nearly 3,000 Union soldiers surrendered; its significance should not be underestimated The parcel is owned by a local developer, but is not currently serviced by sewage lines. 74 lbEtvTiFrED Sm AND FEATuREs Assoc(ATED wrrH THEBATTi.FFiRi.T) (uNSURVEYED*) Abrams Creek Milburn Road Abrams Delight Milltown Apple Pie Ridge National Cemetery Battery Hill Northwestern Pike Battery Heights Old Charles Town Road Berryville Pike Old Town Winchester Bower's Hill Parkin's Mill Camp Hill Pritchard's Hill Cedar Creek Grade Star Fort Cloverdale* Stephenson's Depot Collier Redoubt Stine's Chapel (site of) Entrenchments Stone Houses Fort Milroy Stonewall Cemetery Front Royal Pike Taylor's Hotel Jonathan Smith House Tidball's Spring Jordan Springs Tollgate (site of) Keddey Mills Valley Piffle Kernstown West Fort Louisiana Heights Walnut Grove* Middle Road WMow Lawn* Milburn Cemetery Winchester & Potomac Railroad CIVIL WAR SITES IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA OPEQUON OR THIRD i iNaiEsTER (19 SEPTEMBER 1864) County: Frederick, VA and City of Winchester General Location: Area east of Winchester from I-81 along Berryville Pike (VA 7) to Opequon Creek Also combat north of Red Bud Run W to USl 1. Stephenson's Depot Star Fort Collier Redoubt Size of Study/Core Areas: 11,670/4,914 acres GIS Integrity of Study/Core Areas: 54/47 percent; Fair/ Poor Field Assessment of Study Area Integrity: Poor USGS Quadrants: Winchester, Stephenson Campaign: Sheridan's Valley Campaign Principal Commanders: [c] Lt Gen. Jubal Early, [u] Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan. Forces Engaged: [c] Four divisions (Gordon, Rodes, Ramseur, Breckinridge/Wharton), two cavalry divisions (Fitz Lee, Lomax), about 15200; [u] Three infantry corps (Wright, Emory, Crook), cavalry corps (Torbert), about 39,236. Casualties [c] 3,611 (226k/1,567w/1,818m&c); [u] 5,018 (697k/3,983w/338m). Significance: Opequon or Third Winchester (fought 19 September 1864) was the largest and most desperately contested battle of the Civil War in the Shenandoah Valley, resulting in more than 9,000 casualties. The battle was a turning point of the war in the Valley, marking the rise of Sheridan and the decline of Confederate power. Sheridan defeated the Confederate army again three days later at Fisher's Hill (22 September), forcing it to retreat up the Valley to near Waynesboro. The CS army of Lt Gen. tubal A. Early suffered about 23 percent casualties. Casualties for the larger Union army under Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan exceeded 5,000, nearly 20 percent. The Union XIX Corps sustained 40 percent casualties (2,074 93 men) and lost every regimental commander during its assaults on the Middle Field and Second Woods. The most severe fighting and casualties occurred in the large parcel east of I-81, north of rte. 7, west of rte. 656, and south of rte. 661. The Middle Field ranks with some of the most sanguinary fields of the Civil War, witnessing more than 3,000 casualties. CS general Robert E Rodes and US general D. A. Russell were both killed within a few hundred yards of the Dinkle Barn site at the entrance to Winchester Mall - DF.sCxi mm OF THE BATTLE Phase One. US Advance (19 September): Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan's army advanced from the vicinity of Berryville on the Winchester -Berryville Pike about 0200 hours, 19 September 1864. At earliest light, Brig. Gen. James Wilson's cavalry division crossed the Opequon at Spout Spring and advanced through a defile known as Berryville Canyon, followed by the US infantry (VI Corps, XIX Corps, and Crook's corps). At the canyon's mouth the cavalry met the first elements of Maj. Gen. Stephen Ramseur's CS division and drove them back on their supports. Johnston's brigade deployed across the pike and held back the Union advance, while the rest of the division came into line to cover the Berryville Pike and Senseny Road farther to the south. The US cavalry launched several mounted and dismounted charges, driving the CS infantry back about 150 yards to the vicinity of the Dinkle Barn Here Ramseur stiffened his defense with artillery, and the US cavalry withdrew as its infantry began to deploy. Wilson's division moved to cover the US left flank where it remained for the rest of the battle. Phase Two. Cavalry Action: About 0200 hours Brig. Gen. Wesley Merritt's cavalry division of three brigades (Custer, Devin, Lowell) advanced toward Seiver's and Locke's fords from the vicinity of Berryville. Their crossings were resisted by Brig. Gen. John McCausland's cavalry brigade dismounted behind barricades. The Reserve brigade (Lowell) pushed across at Seiver's Ford against fitful opposition. Custer's brigade met heavier resistance at Locke's Ford and made several mounted charges before securing a foothold on the western bank By 0800 hours both wings were across the creek, but the cavalry did not advance for several hours. About 1030 hours, McCausland's skirmishers withdrew, and Merritt's division moved cautiously forward. Waiting for them was CML WAR SITES IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA Wharton's infantry division about a mile west of the fords, -'Pployed across the roads in woods and behind stone _nces. About 1100 hours, the US cavalry began testing the CS defenses with skirmishers and artillery. Custer launched one mounted attack but was quickly repulsed. About noon, Sheridan's main infantry attack was under- way, and Wharton's division withdrew to cover the CS left flank on the Valley Pike north of Winchester. Merritt continued forward along Charles Town Road Custer followed the line of the Winchester & Potomac Railroad About 1400 hours Merritt's division converged with Averell's cavalry division on the Valley Pike near Stephenson's Depot (See phase seven.) Phase Three. Deployment of US Infantry. In the mean- time, the Union infantry bogged down in the narrow confines of Berryville Canyon, da§hing Sheridan's hopes of quickly taking Winchester and defeating the CS army in detail. Maj. Gen. Horatio Wright's VI Corps of three divisions (Getty, Ricketts, Russell) emerged from the canyon in order. GaWs division deployed south of the pike with its left flank resting on Abrams Creek Ricketts' division formed north of the pile on Getty s right and xtending to Redbud Run. Russell's division was held in .eserve. The XIX Corps of two divisions (Dwight and Grover) did not begin crossing until after 0900 hours and eventually deployed north of the pike into the First Woods, connecting with Ricketts' right Sheridan established his headquarters near the Berryville Pike, probably south of the road on the Eversole Farm. As the US infantry deployed, the CS batteries opened a furious fire from behind the Dinkle Barn Union batteries swung into action on both sides of the pike to engage the CS guns. In the meantime, Lt Gen. tubal Early concentrated his scattered divisions. Rodesdivision, marching from near Stephenson's Depot, deployed to the left and rear of R=seur's division in the West Woods. Gordon's division extended the line across the Hackwood Farm to Redbud Run. Wharton's infantry and Fitz Lee's cavalry division drew a line across the Valley Pike north of town near Stephenson's Depot CS batteries deployed on high ground along Baker Lane north and south of the West Woods, and north of Redbud Run. Skirmishing contin- ued along Ramseur's front Phase Four. Fighting in Middle Field: At 1140 hours, a US signal gun boomed and Grover's division of four 94 brigades (Binge, Molineux, Sharpe, and Shunk) launched its attack from the First Woods across Middle Field toward the Second Woods behind which Gordon's division waited CS horse artillery north of Redbud Run played havoc with the flanks of Grover's attacking line. Birge's brigade reached the woods, driving back skirmish- ers, but then came up against Gordon's main line and were staggered Sharpe's brigade carne up on Birge's left, and the fighting became desperate. The Confederate line broke, falling back across the Hackwood property. Seven CS cannon in the Hackwood Lane fired canister pointblank into the US attackers, throwing them back. Gordon now launched a counterattack with two brigades, driving Birge and Sharpe out of the Second Woods and back across Middle Field Grover ordered Molineux to advance and plug the gap that had opened between Birge and Sharpe. The firing was so intense that Molineux's Hanks seemed to "melt away." Shunk's brigade was thrown forward to bolster the wavering Union line, coming in on Molineux's right rear. Shunk closed to within sixty yards of the CS line in the Second Woods. The two lines delivered pointblank volleys into each others' ranks. Gordon again counterattacked, and the Union attack collapsed The wreckage of Grover's division went streaming back across the Middle Field to the safety of the First Woods. The CS horse battery (Breathed) north of Redbud Run again worked execution among the retreating division. Every regimental com- mander in Grover's division was killed or wounded, casualties totaled nearly 1,500. Beat's brigade of Dwight's division deployed in the tredine at the east end of the Middle Field and advanced into "that basin of Hell" to stem the retreat. Gordon's men waiting along the treeline of the Second Woods laid down a murderous fire. The Union brigade did not reach within 200 yards of the Second Woods before being pinned down. They ex- pended all of their ammunition before retreating back to the First Woods. The 114th New York suffered casualties of 60 percent (188 of 350 effectives). McMillan's brigade, personally directed by Corps commander Maj. Gen. WHliam Emory, advanced. They reached a shallow ravine about 200 yards from the Second Woods, where two regiments (8VT and 12CT) dung on for nearly two hours. By 1300 hours, the main thrust of the XIX Corps attack was blunted and its ranks decimated By 1400 hours, firing on this end of the field sputtered out from sheer exhaustion. CML WAR SITES IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA Phase Five. Fighting Near Dinkle Barn: At 1140 in conjunction with the XIX Corps' advance on the right, Getty's and Ricketts's divisions of the VI Corps launched their attack against Ramseur's line, which was positioned on high ground, stretching from the Dinkle Barn south behind Abrams Creek Ricketts' division on the right was ordered to guide its attack on the Berryville Pilce, which takes a sharp jog to the left in front of the Dinkle Barn. As they advanced, a gap widened between the VI Corps and the M Corps on the far right Keifer's and Emerson's brigades ruptured the Confederate center at the Dinkle Barn and moved to capture a battery of artillery in front of the West Woods. Ramseur's left dank now gave way and Confederates began to drift back toward Winchester. Phase Sim -Rodes's Counterattack Just as Ramseur's left flank gave way from the Union attacks, Maj. Gen. Robert E. Rodes brought his division forward from its protected position in the West Woods. About 1330 he launched a devastating counterattack into the gap that had opened between the VI and XIX Corps. Battle's Alabama brigade "came out of the woods like a whirlwind," crushing Ricketts's division, which formed the right flank of the VI Corps. About this time, General Rodes was killed by shrapnel. He fell somewhere along the woods line. Union soldiers streamed back along the Berryville Pike, while two US batteries astride the pike tried to slow the CS assault From his command post on Eversole's Hill, Sheridan and Wright witnessed the disaster. Sheridan immediately committed his reserves to stave off certain defeat; this was David A. Russell's division of three brigades (Campbell, Upton, and Edwards). Campbell advanced his brigade astride the Berryville Pike with Edwards' brigade to his right General Russell, directing these maneuvers, was mortally wounded The two brigades struck Battle's attackers head-on and stalled them in the ravine from which they had emerged and drove them back on their supports at the edge of the West Woods --the rest of Rodes' division. Upton's brigade came in on Edwards' right advancing from the edge of the Second Woods. The two divisions—Rodes' and Russell's --closed, exchanging murderous volleys. Upton's impetuous charge stopped the CS counterattack and drove it back into the West Woods. Russell's division was then withdrawn out of range to regroup. Wright called Upton's attack the turning point of the battle. 95 Phase Seven. Cavalry Action: Concurrent with the above events, there was cavalry fighting along the Valley Pike north of Winchester. About 0500 hrs. the Union cavalry division of William Averell crossed the Opequon near Darkesville and moved to the Valley Pike, steadily pushing back the 23rd Virginia Cavalry, which fought a delaying action back to Bunker Hill. There the 23VA were rein- forced by the 62nd Virginia mounted infantry. About 10 o'clock, Union cavalry attacked at Bunker Hill, forcing the CS cavalry to retire. Averell continued pushing south on the pike to link up with Merritt's division about 1400 hours, near Stephenson's Depot South of the old Charles Town road, the Confederate cavalry units were stiffened by Smith's infantry brigade (Wharton's Division). About 1330, Devin's brigade arrived on the road to the depot About one mile south of the depot, it encountered McCausland's brigade drawn up in line of battle and attacked, driving the Confederates back in confusion. The 23VA cavalry and the 62VA mounted infantry attacked the Union flank disrupting the charge. McCausland and Smith retired one mile to the lightly entrenched line at near Collier Redoubt where they were reinforced by Fitz Lee's two brigades Wickham and Payne) and Wharton's infantry division. Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee fell wounded, during the fighting south of Stephenson's Depot The Union cavalry deployed five brigades in line of battle, stretching from the railroad west toward the ridge near the intersection of the Valley Pike and Welltown Road- Phase oad Phase Eight Crook's Flank Attack About 1300 hours, Sheridan directed Crook's corps of two divisions (Thoburn and Duval) to advance from its reserve position near Spout Spring. The divisions marched to near the "Factory' on Redbud Run, where they split up. Thobum's division moved west on the south bank of Redbud into the First Woods to relieve the XIX Corps. Duval's division crossed the run and turned west accom- panied by the artillery of Capt Henry DuPont Duval's division deployed near the Huntsbeny House. DuPont unlimbered 18 guns on what has been named DuPont Hid, opposite Gordon's flank in the Second Woods and opened fire. Crook now ordered Duval's division forward into a "wall of flame." They swept across Redbud Run at the Hackwood House, turning Gordon's flank and advancing against Wharton's line, stretching from Collier Redoubt east About this time, Thobum's division ClvrL WAR SnTS IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA charged out of the First Woods into the Middle Field. 'tis two-pronged assault forced Gordon to abandon the second Woods and align himself with Breckinridge to his left rear. The CS line was now drawn into a compact L - shape, anchored by cavalry at Star Fort. Wharton's division faced north. Gordon's division made the turn of the L and Rodes' and Ramseur's divisions extended the line south to Abrams Creek. Phase Nine. Collapse of CS Line: With the success of Crook's attack on the right, Sheridan ordered a general advance against the constricted CS position on the plateau just north and east of the town. The Confederates were posted behind stone fences, rail barricades, and in shallow earthworks constructed in 1862. They could retreat no farther without losing organization in the streets of Winchester. As the Union advance closed from east and north, firing became fierce and desperate. The massed artillery of both sides fired case shot and canister. General Sheridan rode forward to the battle lines to urge his troops forward About 1530 hours, as the infantry fighting reached a crescendo, Averell and Merritt advanced their cavalry divisions astride the Valley Poke, first at a walk and en at a thundering gallop. They swept over the CS line at Collier Redoubt driving back the CS cavalry on the low ground below Star Fort. Schoonmaker's brigade of AverelFs division repeatedly attacked Munford's cavalry at Star Fort, eventually overrunning the work The CS infantry withdrew to another line about 150 yards to the rear but the damage was done. The sound of Union cavalry pounding in their rear spread panic all along the Confederate line, and soldiers began streaming to the rear and "whirling through Winchester." Wharton's and Gordon's divisions seemed to disintegrate. Seven Federal horseman captured Confederate battle flags, each earning a Medal of Honor. Rodes's division (commanded now by Grimes) performed the difficult maneuver of "changing front" to the north to shop the onrushing US cavalry. Fariy's army retreated in disorder. Phase Ten. Rear Guard Actions: General Early fashioned a defensive line at Kernstown (probably at Pritchard's Hill and behind Hoge's Run) which saved his wagons and most of his artillery. Cavalry and elements of the VI Corps probed this makeshift CS defense as night fell, but the US )rces were too disorganized by success to mount an effective pursuit After dark, the CS army withdrew up the 96 Valley Pike to Fisher's Hill south of Strasburg. Gen. Sheridan established his headquarters in Winchester at the home of Lloyd Logan. Casualties were so severe that nearly every sizeable structure in Winchester served as a hospital after the battle. CURRENT CONDITION of THE BATTLEFIELD The Opequon battlefield is large and sprawling, covering thousands of aces east and north of Winches- ter. In general, much -of the battlefield has been greatly degraded or destroyed by the expanding urban environs of Winchesta, but several significant parcels currently remain, perhaps 800-900 acres: these include the Cavalry Field north of Collier Redoubt, the Hackwcod Estate, northern half of Middle Field and First Woods adjacent to Redbud Run, and the heights (including DuPont's Hill) north of Redbud Run. Together, these parcels form a block of battlefield core that retains a high degree of integrity. Many historic structures remain in the vicinity, including Hackwood; Spout Spring (Wood House) on rte. 7 adjacent to a sewage treatment plant; an old house, mill site, and a dye house where rte. 656 crosses Redbud Run; an old log house where rte. 659 crosses Redbud Run; Brumley House; Valley Mill Farm; Jordan Springs, Tanquary House; and others. The Hackwood Estate dates from 1777 and is a historic treasure in its own right. Preservation of this house and parcel alone would allow substantial interpretation of the battle of Opequon. Other parcels, such as the Opequon Crossing and Spout Spring, Seiver's and Locke's fords, and the Second Winchester parcel at Stephenson's Depot (which was scene of cavalry actions during this battle) would expand interpretation. Star Fort and Collier Redoubt appear protected, although without sufficient buffers. Although. hemmed in by development and severely degraded, the Dinkle Barn site adjacent to the I-81 entrance ramp off rte. 7 is key to understanding the attack of the VI Corps and Rodes' counterattack A portion of the ravine down which Rodes attacked is intact northeast of I-81 interchange in front of the Dinkle Barn site at the entrance of Winchester Mall. The battery heights west of 1-81 are being developed for business, industrial, and residential uses. The last surviving parcel of West Woods (adjacent to 1-81) is currently being bulldozed for townhouses. CMI, WAR STT -S IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA The Hastings marker is the only monument erected on the battlefield that remains. It is enclosed by an iron fence and sits next to the road in the midst of Fort Collier Business/Industrial Park east of Collier Redoubt Nearby are the remains of old stone fences and an old farm lane defended by CS troops in the battle's later phases. lUcE moN of THRFATS TO BATnxFIELU Threats are immediate and of large order. If contin- ued as planned, the residential development of Caleb Heights and associated development would destroy the last remaining intact parcels of the infantry fighting at the battle of Opequon. According to county -approved plans, construction would occupy most of the area south of Redbud Run with more than 600 single family homes, townhouses, and a commercial strip. A connector road would be pushed through from the north, separating Hackwood and DuPont's HUI. As of this writing, con- struction has not begun and has been held up by financial transactions. The Hackwood House and property (144 acres) was recently offered for auction but the sale was postponed. This property could potentially be subdivided Regency Lakes subdivision was built several years ago on southern portions of Middle Field and First Woods. Further phases of housing development, if constructed, would coves the List portion of Second Woods, 'Rodes'Ravine," and another segment of the First Woods. Star Fort itself is owned by a Civil War reenactment group but the sur- rounding 50 -acres is for sale and zoned commercial/ industrial The Shenandoah Valley Civil War Foundation, a local preservation group, has negotiated to preserve a smaIl portion of the Second Woods area as a park if develop- ment proceeds. The developer, Top of Vz&ia Corpora- tion, has agreed to set aside 63 awes in the area adjacent to Hackwood as a commemorative park A forty -acre parcel of Middle Field next to Redbud Run is privately owned, the owner has stated in the past that he will not develop it 97 IDENT>= SrrFs AND FEATURES ASSOCIATED WITH THE BATTiF.Fi w(UNSURVEYED*) Baker House (site of) Milburn Cemetery Berryville Canyon Middle Field Berryville Pike Mlorgan's h0 (ruin) Brumley House National Cemetery Burnt Factory Farm OId Town Winchester C. Wood's Mill (site of') Opequon Crossing Carter House Ravine up which Rodes attacked Cleridge Farm Red Bud Mill (site of) (Opequon Inn) Rutherford House (site of) Collier Redoubt Second Woods Dinkle Barn (site of) Seiver's Ford DuPont's Hill Spout Spring (Wood House) Eversole House (site of) Star Fort First Woods Stephenson's Depot (site of) Greenwood Church Stonewall Cemetery Hackwood Tanquery's Ford Hackwood Lane Thomas McCann House Hasting's Monument Valley Mill Farm Hoffmann House (site of") Valley Pike Huntsberry House (site of) West Woods L Wood House Wood's Mill (site of`) Jordan Springs Wright's Ford Locke's Ford a CWM WAR SITES IN THE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA TABLE 12 1991 LAND USE / LAND COVER OPEQUON BATTLEFIELD 98 Study Area Acres Percent Core Area Ames Percent LAND USE / LAND COVER Built-up Land 6,149.06 45.22 2,3$2.65 45.05 Agricultural Land 5,38621 39.61 2,011.90 38.04 Forest Land 1,678.01 12.34 484.46 9.16 Unidentified Land Use / Land Cover 384.83 2.83 409.89 7.75 Total 13,598.1 100.00 5,288.90 100.00 GLS ASSESSMENT OF INTEGRITY Retained Integrity 7,285.86 5358 2,321.18 47.24 Lost Integrity 6,312.24 46.42 2,592.42 52.76 Level of Integrity Fair Poor TABLE 12 1991 LAND USE / LAND COVER OPEQUON BATTLEFIELD 98 Red Bud Run Impact Analyws Statement J. Impact on Community Facilities Frederick County's capital impact model has been run to reflect the impacts associated with this project. Proffers have been created that intend to mitigate the associated impacts as presented. Additional impacts Will be realized by this project, namely: Schools - better access to Red Bud Run Elementary and Millbrook High School from areas north to Stephenson. Sheriff/Fire & Rescue — improved traffic control and safety and VA Route 7. Parks & Recreation — public access to the Red Bud Run preservation area. Solid Wastes - None REZONING REQUEST` PROFFER Property Identification Number 55-A-105,106,107 & 107A Stonewall Magisterial District RED BUD RUN Preliminary Matters Pursuant to Section 15.2-2296 et._ Sea., of the code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, and the provisions of the Frederick County Zoning Ordinance with respect to conditional rezoning, the undersigned applicant herby proffers that in the event the Board of Supervisors of Frederick County, Virginia, shall approve Rezoning Application # for the rezoning of 159.03 acres from the Rural Area (RA) to Residential Performance (RP). Development of the subject property shall be done in conformity with the terms and conditions set forth herein, except to the extent that such terms and conditions may be subsequently amended or revised by the applicant and such be approved by the Frederick County Board of Supervisors in accordance with Virginia law. In the event that such rezoning is not granted, then these proffers shall be deemed withdrawn and of no effect whatsoever. These proffers shall be binding upon the applicant and their legal successor or assigns. General Development Plan The undersigned, who owns the above described property, hereby voluntarily proffers that if the Board of Supervisors for the County of Frederick, Virginia approves the rezoning for the 159.03 acres, with frontage along VA Route 7 in the Stonewall Magisterial District of Frederick County, Virginia from RA to RP, the undersigned will pay to Frederick County at the time a building permit is applied for and issued the sum of $5,454.00 per lot. This monetary proffer provides for $3,581.00 for Frederick County Schools; $598.00 for Frederick County Parks and Recreation; $707.00 for Frederick County Fire and Rescue; $210.00 for Public Library; $117.00 for Sheriff's Office and $241.00 for Administration Building. General Development Plan Voluntarily proffered is the attached Generalized Development Plan including the following improvements: 1. On the 159.03 acres to be zoned RP no more than 300 single family dwelling units shall be constructed. These units shall consist of single family home lots. No multi -family units shall be constructed on this property. REZONING REQUEST PROFFER Property Identification Number 44 -A -89A and 44-A-119 Stonewall Magisterial District Red Rud Run 2. VA Route 7 and Woods Mill Road shall be improved to VDOT standards including eastbound left turn transition lanes, right turn lane to Blue Ridge MHP, stoplight (WBL), and Woods Mill Road widening with decel lanes. (See 1). 3. A minor collector roadway shall be constructed in Phase i of project to connect Woods Mill Road with Morgans Mill Road and a rear access to schools. (See 2). 4. A stream preservation parcel of 27 acres shall be established along Red Bud Run. This parcel shall be available for public use. This land shall be in addition to open space requirements of the Frederick County Zoning Ordinance. Additionally, all project open space shall have applied a preservation easement to limit future disturbance. 5. Gravity sanitary sewer mains shall transfer wastewater to the Ash Hollow Watershed. An FCSA sewage pumping station shall not be constructed in the Red Bud Run Watershed. 6. Stormwater runoff resulting from improvements constructed within the Red Bud Run Watershed shall receive treatment as required by the Virginia Stormwater Management Regulations, First Ed. 1999, Chapter 2, Table 2-3 which results in the highest order of stormwater control existing under Virginia law. The conditions proffered above shall be binding upon the heirs, executors, administrators, assigns and successors in interest of the Applicant and Owner. In the event the Frederick County Board of Supervisors grant said rezoning and accepts these conditions, the proffered conditions shall apply to the land rezoned in addition to other requirements set forth in the Frederick County Code. Respectfully submitted, PROPERTY OWNER LCA Date: STATE OF VIRGINIA, AT LARGE FREDERICK COUNTY, To -wit: The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this day of , 2001, by My commission expires Notary Public Page 2 of 3