Update: American Battlefield Trust Postpones Public Events Scheduled Through May 15

(Washington, D.C.) — Given the unprecedented impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the American Battlefield Trust has made the decision to postpone and reschedule its public events through May 15, 2020. In announcing the move, Trust President Jim Lighthizer made the following statement:

“The American Battlefield Trust, along with countless other cultural institutions, is disappointed we won’t have the opportunity to proceed with our public events in March and April. However, we recognize that public health considerations are paramount at this time, and are committed to protecting the health and well-being of our members, staff and friends.

“In lieu of the public events we have had to postpone, we encourage history lovers to join our vibrant social media community and take advantage of our numerous digital offerings. In particular, our catalog of educational videos covering a huge range of topics in American history may be of interest to those unable to travel this spring or those who are looking to supplement distance learning environments.

“We look forward to interacting with our members on the battlefield as soon as it is advisable to do so. And we urge those who live in proximity to battlefields and other similar sources of outdoor recreation to enjoy them individually in the interim.”

This postponement impacts the Trust-hosted Generations events at Yorktown and Gettysburg, as well as Pop-Up tours for eligible members; the nearly 130 sites that had signed up to participate in the 24th annual Park Day are encouraged to reschedule at their own discretion. Decisions regarding future Trust events will be made in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and the advice of public health officials.

The latest details on rescheduling of postponed events and the status of future gatherings will be posted online at www.battlefields.org/events.

The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today. The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 50,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War. Learn more at www.battlefields.org.

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