Preserving American Battlefields: The American Battlefield Trust

The American Battlefield Trust is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving America’s historic battlegrounds. Their mission is to protect these sites for future generations, ensuring that the stories of the American Revolution, War of 1812, and Civil War are remembered and honored. Their work involves permanently protecting these battlefields and educating the public about their significance.

Why Preserve Battlefields?

Preserving battlefields is more than just saving land. It’s about safeguarding the stories of our past and understanding the sacrifices made by those who fought for our nation. These sites are not just historical markers; they are living reminders of the struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices that shaped our country.

• Preserving History: Battlefields are physical testaments to pivotal moments in American history. They provide tangible evidence of the strategies, tactics, and events that shaped the nation’s past.
• Honoring Veterans: Preserving battlefields honors the sacrifices made by the soldiers who fought on those grounds. It allows us to remember their bravery, resilience, and contributions to our nation’s history.
• Educational Value: Battlefields offer a unique opportunity for education. Visitors can learn firsthand about the events that occurred there, the lives of the soldiers, and the broader context of the conflict.
• Economic Benefits: Preserved battlefields attract tourists, creating economic opportunities for local communities. They also contribute to the preservation of natural landscapes and wildlife habitats.

The American Battlefield Trust’s Work

The American Battlefield Trust has been working to protect battlefields since 1889. They have saved over 55,000 acres of historic land, ensuring that these sites remain accessible to future generations. Their work involves:

• Land Acquisition: The Trust purchases land that contains significant battlefield features, permanently protecting them from development.
• Historic Preservation: They work to restore and preserve the historic features of the battlefields, ensuring that they remain accurate representations of the past.
• Public Education: The Trust offers educational programs, tours, and resources to educate the public about the importance of battlefield preservation and the history of the battles fought on these sites.
• Advocacy: They advocate for policies that protect battlefields and promote their preservation.

How You Can Help

There are many ways to support the American Battlefield Trust’s mission:

• Donate: Financial contributions are vital to the Trust’s efforts to acquire and preserve land.
• Volunteer: Volunteer your time to assist with site preservation, educational programs, or fundraising activities.
• Educate Others: Share the importance of battlefield preservation with your friends, family, and community.
• Visit Battlefields: Explore preserved battlefields and learn about the history they hold.

By supporting the American Battlefield Trust, you can help ensure that the stories of our nation’s past are preserved for future generations. These battlefields are not just pieces of land; they are living memorials to the sacrifices made for our freedom. Let’s work together to protect them for generations to come.