Meet Michael Hobbs of Hampton, Va.

“The opportunity to attend these excellent events and the level of expertise by the tour leaders is very much appreciated.”

Color Bearer Michael Hobbs

American Battlefield Trust: How were you first introduced to the Trust, and what motivated you to donate?

Michael: I was first introduced to a predecessor of the current trust, the Association for the Preservation of Civil War Sites on the Port Republic “Coaling” preservation campaign. I was motivated to donate due to the lack of preservation at Port Republic and knowledge that development was a serious threat with the growth of Harrisonburg. My sister lives in the area and I had driven through the battlefield on US 340 numerous times and there was only minimal signage describing the Battle of Port Republic.  

Which facet of our organization’s activities most strongly resonates with you?  

Land preservation and restoration is what I find most vital.  

What do you enjoy most about being a Color Bearer?  

I’ve only been to 2 Color Bearer events so far (Last year’s get together at Franklin and this year’s event in Charleston).  The opportunity to attend these excellent events and the level of expertise by the tour leaders is very much appreciated, and I genuinely enjoyed getting to meet Mr Duncan at the Charleston event and opportunity to thank him for providing the event.

Which battlefield sites that you’ve visited have left the most profound impact on you?

I’ve visited a significant number of the major Civil War sites and also Revolutionary Sites. Shiloh, Antietam and 2nd Manassas are probably the ones that most impressed me.

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why?

George Washington, his action at Jumonville Glen started the French and Indian War, his activities at Braddock’s defeat saved Howe and the British forces falling back. The Revolution resulted from the Crown’s attempts to pay for that war, which Washington led the army to contest. He surrendered his commission at the end of the war but his attendance at the Constitutional Convention gave it legitimacy and their confidence in him led to the very limited instruction on the creation of the Executive Branch. His leadership created the Presidency and many of its institutions, such as the cabinet offices. His tours of the country while in office helped strengthen the ties of the states to the nation. He was the indispensable man, and had I chance to meet him I would simply say thank you.

What would you like to pass on to future generations?    

Preserved or restored land (preservation and restoration at Franklin Tennessee is simply astounding).

Anything else you would like to share?

Simply a sincere appreciation of the group, its efforts and achievements.