The enthusiasm, hard work, and generosity of so many have enabled us to complete Phases I and II of the project. Most recently, Friends of Wilderness Battlefield (FoWB) and Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park (FRSP) collaborated to secure a $248,000 matching grant from the Centennial Challenge Initiative for design and fabrication of first-floor exhibits, which were installed in May 2010. Phase III, the restoration of the four second-floor bedrooms, is scheduled for completion in time for the launching of the Civil War Sesquicentennial in 2011.

In 1998, FoWB with FRSP combined forces to open Ellwood. The Friends placed five new interpretive panels around the grounds (funded by a grant from the American Battlefield Protection Program), recruited volunteers to interpret Ellwood’s history, and began maintaining the house’s surroundings. Since the initial opening in June of 1998, tens of thousands of visitors have crossed its threshold.

FRSP structurally repaired the building, installed an HVAC system and new electrical wiring, and returned the exterior to its Civil War appearance. However, the interior remained a maze of open walls, deteriorating plaster, and timbers ravaged by insects. Ironically, the Civil War inflicted less damage to Ellwood than did the elements and time. The Friends initiated plans to correct this situation.

With the help of two Washington, D.C. architects schooled in the art of historical restoration, FoWB completed a preliminary restoration plan for the interior of the structure that would allow the building to remain open to visitors during the restoration process. This plan developed into a three-phase restoration process:

• Phase I: Restoration and furnishing of the parlor (General Warren’s headquarters), entry hall, and north room.
• Phase II: Restoration of the breezeway, west room, and first- and second-floor stair halls.
• Phase III: Restoration of the four bedrooms on the second floor.

The next step was to fund the project. In 2003, under the direction of a volunteer fund-development expert, a capital campaign plan was accepted by FRSP, permitting the Friends organization to begin fundraising. The effort has been tackled in concert with the restoration phases outlined above.

The group has raised sufficient funds to complete Phase I and Phase II, as well as an archeological study of the south entrance to the breezeway. The current fundraising goal of $30,000 will support Phase III restoration and interpretation of the second floor.

It is an extremely gratifying endeavor. Ellwood Manor is an integral component of American history. Through preservation and restoration, the house and surrounding grounds become the best of teaching tools, an unequaled learning experience.

Please, join us as we save an American treasure.

• Send a gift
• Become a “Friend”
• Volunteer

Hundreds have signed on to do all three. Can we count you as a member of the team?

Ellwood Restoration Photos.