History at Sunset

“…there burst upon our view the appalling spectacle of a panic-stricken army…”
The William Dinges Farm (Rienzi Knoll) at Cedar Creek

Known variously as the William H. Dinges Farm, Ripple Farm or Rienzi Knoll, this historic property witnessed one of the most dramatic episodes of the Battle of Cedar Creek (October 19, 1864); the arrival of Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan following his non-stop ride from Winchester. Finding his army broken and demoralized, Sheridan rallied his troops and launched a devastating counterattack that afternoon which “snatched victory from the jaws of defeat,” turning Cedar Creek into a stunning Union triumph.

Join Park Ranger Jeff Driscoll for a special program that will allow the general public access to this property and explore its Battle of Cedar Creek history, Meet at the National Park Service Visitor Contact Station (7712 Main Street, Middletown, VA 22645). Visitors will then car-pool to the site.