How Henrico is working to preserve Civil War history at Deep Bottom Park

A quick detour off the beaten path at Deep Bottom Park in the Varina District of Henrico County can transport visitors back to the Civil War.

What looks like a high bank off a stream is actually an earthen fortification — a structure instrumental in the military tactics of northern troops against Confederate soldiers.

Henrico County purchased the land from the American Battlefield Trust to ensure it isn't further lost to nature or future development.

Julian Charity, assistant director of Recreation & Parks, said the natural environment has actually helped keep the site preserved.

"It has kept it intact so that 160 years later, we can interpret these things," Charity said. "Nature has swallowed up what man has changed, but it has embraced it, and now is keeping it so we can preserve it for the future."

He said the acquisition is part of a broader effort across the East End of the county.

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