Prospect Hill

Confederate cannon on the high ground at Prospect Hill protected the Confederate line.

Quick Facts

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

On the morning of December 13, 1862, a thick fog fell over the field, obscuring troop movements and delaying battle. Confederate 2nd Corps General "Stonewall" Jackson's troops waited quietly in the tree line at Prospect Hill, the south end of a defensive line that spaned 8 miles around Fredericksburg. When Union General Meade's troops started toward Prospect Hill, Confederate cannons remained silent. Jackson did not want to give away his position, even in the face of artillery fire.

At about 800 yards from the Confederate line, Meade’s troops were met with a storm of artillery shells as Jackson finally opened fire. The United State artillery units responded in kind. Soon this place would be filled with the intense noise, smoke, and power from cannons on both sides. Meade’s soldiers were driven back by the Confederate artillery. Reforming, Meade’s Pennsylvanians advanced again, this time cutting through Jackson's line briefly, but Jackson’s fire, manpower, and counterattack drove Meade to retreat.

Jackson was unaware of the communication blunders that left Meade unsupported. In the end, fighting at Prospect Hill ended in stalemate, with both sides losing thousands of men. There were about 4,000 Confederate casualties and about 5,000 United States casualties (killed, wounded, and missing) on this side of the battlefield.
 

While you're here...

Take in the View

Prospect Hill is one of the few spots in the park with a sweeping view. Challenge your imagination and picture what this place looked like in 1862. Imagine the noise of the 14 cannons that were here. You can see remnants of the guns pits in the form of soft mounds on the ground.
 

Walk the South Lee Drive Trail

2.4 mi (3.8 km) one way
This trail weaves through the wood alongside the driving tour road on South Lee Drive. Access the trail from the woods behind the parking lot opposite the open field. NOTE: This trail is one-way and leads to the intersection of Lee Drive and Landsdowne Road. If you do the full trail, you can either return to Prospect Hill on the trail or walk 2 miles on the road.
 

Walk to Hamilton's Crossing

0.64 mi (1 km) round trip
From the parking area at Prospect Hill, take this short trail that leads to the site of Hamilton's Crossing.
 

Walk or Bike Lee Drive

Lee Drive is a popular spot to walk or bike along the road. If walking or biking along the road, be sure to watch for vehicles and other visitors.