kernstown battlefield and pritchard house

Impromptu get away brought us to this area for Civil War viewing. Highly disappointed that this was closed for the season. How do you close history? Why not be open for limited hours on weekends at least.

A little disappointed, not like other battlefields, No plaques, or tablets. House was closed and we were not able to tour.

Found this at the end of the day so we decided to read up on it and return the next day. Walked the path with the description and it was truly enjoyable. This is not state or federally funded. They are a private org that purchased the Pritchard house in disrepair and returned it (mostly) to its Civil War glory. Still needs work so they are hesitant to offer tours of the home. They need $ for more work. Fascinating area where North and South met over several battles and skirmishes. Don't miss it if you have the time.

The Kernstown Battlefield is run by a group of dedicated volunteers who have managed to put together a visitor center/museum, historic house and interpreted battlefield using mostly donated funds. They interpret both the 1862 and 1864 battles and have key ground for 2nd Kernstown. This is not Gettysburg but it exceeds any reasonable expectation of what a local group can accomplish. Be generous with your "suggested donation."

My hubby and I are doing our best to visit every Civil War battle field. The visitor center is well laid out with items to read. The battle field is just a short walk with interpretive signs.

We came to this site when they were technically closed. But volunteers were there getting ready for the weekend and they allowed us to tour the place. Very friendly staff. Small gift shop with neat shirts.

I was expected a much larger battlefield with statues, tours, etc. But I should have been tipped off when I went there on a Friday and they were not open. They only open on the weekends I assume, as we went back on a Saturday and the gates were open. That being said, we learned so much from the volunteer who came out of the visitors center and met us at our car! He explained how they recently saved most of the acreage from development and he was very proud of it, as he should be! He proceeded to tell us all about the history of the two battles and the surrounding area. We walked around the home and went up the hill to read to some of the surrounding historic plaques. There really is not much here compared to much larger battlefields in the area, but the personal touch was well worth it! I am very impressed with the dedication to helping preserve areas like this, just for that alone it is worth visiting.

I didn't even realize this was so close to home. There is so much history, so many facinating stories, so many passionate and dedicated people, right here in our own back yard! The volunteers at the Kernstown Battlefield and Pritchard House Museum are so knowledgeable and so respectful of the property. Nothing is rehearsed or memorized. Everything is coming from their own knowledge and their hearts. They truely love the property and it shows. The background and stories are amazing. We walked the grounds and explored and chatted and imagined and it was a wonderful day. I took my husband there for his birthday and he said it was the best present ever.The property needs a lot of financial help but you are never pressed for funds or resources. Beware of black snakes around, but they are harmless and the property is beautiful. It is well worth the visit.