Action at Wilson’s Warf – Civil War Reenactment at Fort Pocahontas
June 7 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Action at Wilson’s Wharf – Civil War Reenactment
Saturday, June 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fort Pocahontas, Charles City, Virginia
Ticket Info: $10 per adult/$8 children
No advanced sales. Cash and checks accepted at gate.
Reenactment – The Action at Wilson’s Wharf – Set along the scenic James River between Richmond and Williamsburg, Fort Pocahontas preserves the site of a pivotal May 24, 1864 engagement, when United States Colored Troops successfully defended the fort they had constructed against an attack by Confederate cavalry under Fitzhugh Lee. Visitors can experience immersive Civil War reenactments both days, explore authentic camp life, and enjoy engaging, family-friendly activities that bring history vividly to life. 13150 Sturgeon Point Rd. Charles City. www.fortpocahontas.org.
- 162nd Anniversary of the first USCT victory in Virginia during the Civil War.
- Daily battles recreating this fight for freedom.
- Speakers discussing the role of USCTs, the battle, soldier’s life, signal corp, Naval
activities and the history of the fort. - Civil War camps
- Artillery demonstrations
- Medical triage demonstration
Step Back in Time at Fort Pocahontas!
Every June, history comes alive at Fort Pocahontas with an action-packed Civil War reenactment celebrating the 1864 victory of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) at Wilson’s Wharf. Visitors can experience the sights and sounds of the past with dramatic portrayals by cavalry, artillery, infantry, and civilian reenactors. Period tunes fill the air, while sutlers peddle replica wares just like in the 1860s. Craving a bite? Food Trucks will be onsite. (Sorry, no pets allowed.)
Originally built in 1864 by USCT soldiers under the command of General Edward A. Wild, Fort Pocahontas played a crucial role in repelling a Confederate cavalry attack led by General Fitzhugh Lee on May 24 of that year. Nearly lost to time, the site was rediscovered in the 1990s by historian Ed Besch, who rallied support to save the fort from development. With the help of Harrison Ruffin Tyler—yes, the grandson of President John Tyler—historic markers were added to honor the bravery and legacy of the troops who fought there.
Today, thanks to the efforts of Fort Pocahontas LTD., a dedicated non-profit, this hidden gem is preserved and brought to life once a year during the annual reenactment. While the fort isn’t open to the public year-round, this special event offers a rare chance to walk through history and honor the heroes who shaped it.
Learn more: http://www.fortpocahontas.org/
