Community Corner
History Lives on in Virginia
Civil War opening ceremony highlights rich history of Manassas, Prince William County and Virginia
Hundreds braved the relentless heat Thursday morning for the chance to be a part of history while commemorating a past historic event that altered the country and ultimately the world.
The Manassas National Battlefield Park and Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission conducted an opening ceremony for the 150th Anniversary Commemorative activities taking place in Manassas and Prince William County this weekend.
Rae Emerson, with the National Park Service, was present for the ceremony, which began shortly after 9 a.m. Thursday.
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She said the events in Manassas over the next four days carry out the mission of the Park Service to "preserve, protect and serve" for future generations.
The event was held at the Manssas National Battlefied's Henry Hill Visitor Center and included remarks by the following dignitaries:
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- Virginia House of Delegates Speaker and Chairman for the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission William J. Howell
- Senator and Vice-Chairman for the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission Charles J. Colgan, Sr.
- Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chairman Corey Stewart
- Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell
All speakers alluded to the history in Manassas and surrounding areas and the lessons to be learned by commemorating the actions and sacrifices of those who have fought for the freedom we have today.
"It is imperative thet we gather here today where this battle occurred," Senator Colgan said as he looked out over the crowd and surrounding fields.
Gov. McDonnell spoke to the history one can only find in Virginia. He said Virginia is home to the birth of a nation and the rebuilding of it.
"Prince William County would remain through many successful battles, the battleground of the American Civil War," Chairman Corey Stewart said.
The speakers also spoke to the challenges the country faces today and and urged Americans to "rise to the occasion" as they did 150 years ago.
The keynote address entitled, " The Battle of Manassas: America's Brief Civil War" was presented by University of Richmond President Dr. Edward L. Ayers.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by descendants of the Robinson family, and a daring and captivating demonstration by the United States Army Drill Team from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), 4th Battalion wrapped up the nearly hour-long ceremony.
