History at Sunset

These ranger-conducted presentations cover a variety of subjects and provide visitors an opportunity to see sites normally not open, or widely accessible, to the general public. Explore and learn about some of the “hidden gems” of the park and the Shenandoah Valley. Each program is free and lasts between 90 minutes to two hours.

Sabers and Spencers: Custer and the Cavalry at Cedar Creek
By late 1864, the Union cavalry had evolved into a ferocious offensive strike force under aggressive leaders like Brig. Gen. George A. Custer. At the battle of Cedar Creek, Custer used not only his own leadership skills, but also superior weapons, horses, and tactics to outflank the Confederate army. Join Ranger Rick Ashbacker to follow the actions of Custer’s division as it fought and chased the Confederates from early morning until late evening on October 19, 1864.

Meet at the National Park Service Visitor Contact Station (7712 Main Street, Middletown, Virginia).