The American Civil War Center is located at The Historic Tredegar Iron Works at 490 Tredegar Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219. Truly this is in downtown Richmond, from the center you can see the downtown skyscrapers. The sign welcoming you to The American Civil War Center is on a large Arch from one of the original buildings. "To Bind up the Nations Wounds" Stature seems most appropriate. The museum shows 3 different perspectives of the cause and effective of The Civil War. Three vastly different perspectives are that of The Union, The Confederate, and The African American. The center is open 9-5 daily except special holidays. Entrance fees are $8.00 for adults, $6.00 for students and seniors, and reduced to $2.00 for children; with those younger than 6 free. Tredegar Iron Works was founded in 1836 and named after a Welsh town.
In 1847 it was producing cannons for The US Government and armor plates for The Navy. The Foundry produced many other things such as trains, locamotives, wheels, spikes and more. Pictured above are Cupola's from The Virginia State Penitentiary, and a 12 pound Mountain Howitzer manufactured in 1862. The foundry produced items for The Spanish American War, World War I, World War II, and The Korean War.
Situated on the James River in downtown Richmond it operated on water power. It employed a huge number of employees, 5 of the original buildings still stand. This is a National Historic Landmark, owned and operated by The National Parks. A visitors center, expansive museum, and gift shop are among the many things here to enjoy.
I highly recommend this as a must stop for people of all ages, even those who aren't history enthusiast. The area is quite pretty, a good place for the kids to run off some energy. Picnic areas exist, so take a break and relax.
Other Virginia Posts:
Ford's Colony, Williamsburg
University of Virginia
