Looking at old black-and-white photos and illustrations, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the places and events they depict. However, standing in those locations and seeing the landscape in full color makes history feel real. When I first visited Shiloh National Military Park, I was struck by how little had changed in 150 years. The battlefield is so well preserved that it’s easy to imagine yourself in the shoes of the soldiers who once fought there.
As the curator of this encyclopedia, I believe it is essential to visit the locations we cover, study the terrain, observe the details, and imagine what it was like in that time. Slowly but surely, we are updating our encyclopedia with images of each battlefield and skirmish site. While much has changed over the decades—especially in Virginia—it remains important to share these photos with you so that you, too, can appreciate the unique physical characteristics of each location.
Photos of historical markers, signage, and monuments provide a valuable visual record, especially as more of these monuments and landscapes disappear from public view each year—whether due to neglect, political activism, or commercial development.
Photos have been added to the following pages:
- Engagement at Vienna
- Engagement at Mathias Point
- Action at Fetterman
- Skirmish at Middle Fork Bridge
- Battle of Belington/Laurel Hill
- Skirmish at New Creek
More are on the way, so check back often!
Spirit of '61 