Welcome to the Laurel Hill Battlefield, a place steeped in the tumultuous history of the American Civil War. Situated on the western slopes of Laurel Mountain in Belington, West Virginia, this battlefield is a significant landmark in the story of America’s past.
Established in the midst of the Civil War in 1861, Laurel Hill Battlefield was the site of a critical engagement between Union and Confederate forces. The battle, part of the Tygart Valley Campaign, began on July 7, 1861, and lasted until July 11. It was a part of the larger strategy by Union forces under General George B. McClellan to secure Western Virginia, which was crucial for the Union due to its strategic position and transportation routes.
The battle saw Union forces, led by General Thomas A. Morris, clash with Confederate troops commanded by General Robert S. Garnett. Garnett had fortified a key mountain pass at the foot of Laurel Mountain, hoping to hold back Union advances. However, after days of skirmishes, the Confederate forces were overrun. This battle was notable not just for its strategic impact, but also for the tragic death of General Garnett at the subsequent Battle of Corrick’s Ford, marking him as the first general to die in combat during the Civil War.
The outcome of the battle at Laurel Hill and the subsequent Union victories at Rich Mountain and Corrick’s Ford were pivotal. These victories helped secure Western Virginia for the Union and contributed to the formation of the new state of West Virginia in 1863, a significant development in the Civil War. This region’s allegiance to the Union was instrumental in maintaining control over key transportation and communication routes.
Today, Laurel Hill Battlefield is preserved as a site of historical significance, commemorating the sacrifices and strategies that shaped the early years of the Civil War. Visitors can walk the grounds where soldiers once fought and reflect on the events that unfolded here over 160 years ago. The battlefield serves as a reminder of the complex and often tragic history of the United States, offering insights into the war that shaped the nation.
Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious visitor, the Laurel Hill Battlefield offers a poignant glimpse into a defining moment of American history.
