Open grassy field with autumn colored trees under a clear blue sky.

Experience the Wilderness Battlefields

"It has been said that, at it’s best, preservation engages the past in a conversation with the present over a mutual concern for the future. " -William Murtagh

Welcome to Friends of Wilderness Battlefield

Group of fourteen adults standing on steps in front of a wooden lodge.

Who We Are

The purpose of the Friends of Wilderness Battlefield (FoWB) is to assist the American Battlefield Trust and the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust in their efforts to preserve the battlefields in Spotsylvania and Orange Counties. The Friends provide advocacy, educational programs, and service projects for the battlefield.

FoWB comprises members from more than two dozen states and Canada. Nearly one-half of our members reside in the Virginia counties of Orange and Spotsylvania. Local members are integrally involved with the organization and its preservation activities, including interpretation at Payne's Farm, battlefield maintenance, events support, and community outreach and education.

Two Civil War reenactors with flag and historical artifacts on a table.

What Makes FOWB Special

Unique Partnership

We enjoy a unique partnership with other like-minded historical preservation organizations to help maintain battlefield property and provide interpretation and living history events.

Beautiful Trails

The battlefield grounds are beautiful to walk, with lovely trails.

Heritage Program

We have a Heritage Program to honor ancestors who were there. We host a variety of Living History Events throughout the year, and host dinner or lunch events, with speakers.

Who We Serve

If you love history and want to be a part of our organization please consider becoming a member.

Three children in hats study a map while sitting on a log.

School and Community Groups

Educational Programs for All Ages by prior arrangement
Provide Speakers for your Meetings

Older man in casual clothes pointing right in an open field.

Tourists

Free Volunteer led tours of local battlefields
Self Guided Driving Tour of the Battlefield
Numerous Hiking/Walking Trails
Acres of Beautiful Woods and Meadows to Explore and Enjoy

Large group of diverse people standing outdoors on green grass.

Volunteers

Trained Interpreters at area battlefields
Maintenance of area battlefields
Committee work, research and special events

Latest News and Updates

If you would like to stay updated on our latest events and projects make sure to sign up below.

Racing Towards Preservation

Payne’s Farm 5K and 10K Rally

DATE: Saturday, March 7, 2026

START TIME: 8:30 AM

ENTRY FEE: See Registration

LOCATION: Payne’s Farm Locust Grove, VA

Parking across the street at Zoar Baptist Church

31334 Zoar Road Locust Grove, VA 22508

REGISTRATION: https://bishopsevents.com/events/list/?tribe-bar-date=2026-03-07

Course Map: https://bishopsevents.com/paynes-farm-battlefield/

Become a Sponsor

$100 - $149: Sponsor’s name listed on FOWB website
$150 - $249: Sponsor’s name on website and on rally t-shirt
$250 and above: Sponsor’s name on website and logo on t-shirt
T-shirt deadline is February 5. If your logo will appear on the

t-shirt, please email it to bethstenstrom559@gmail.com.

Become a Sponsor

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Nancy Manners Fahy

Past President Friends of Chatham

Vickie L Burns $100 Sponsor

Randolph Artillery Tract

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources (VDHR) has awarded a grant in the amount of $195,925 to the Friends of Wilderness Battlefield (FOWB) that will be used toward the purchase, preservation and interpretation of a significant piece of the 1863 Mine Run Battlefield, entitled the Randolph Artillery Tract, in Orange County, Virginia.

Learn more about how to help us purchase this historic piece of history.

CLICK HERE