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May/June, 1997:
On Sunday, June 8, Gate Post Estates residents were transported several miles south on Rte 29 to the late summer of 1862 to relive the events of the battle that took place, in their back yard, one hundred and thirty-five years ago. John J. Hennessy, the acclaimed author of Return To Bull Run "The Campaign And Battle Of Second Manassas, 1993, Simon and Schuster," served as tour guide and provided an insight into the emotions and events that occurred on August 28-30, 1862.
The day began at the Fort Hill Building with a breakfast and lecture about the months and days leading up to the battle and concentrated on the role that Centreville played in the history of our nation at that time. Later on the battlefield, Hennessy provided residents with a vivid and often touching commentary of the events that had taken place on the ground where they stood. The tour began at Brawner’s Farm, and proceeded to the Unfinished Railroad, then to New York Ave., and culminated on Chinn Ridge. Hennessy brought the past to life through passages written by participants and witnesses before during and after the battle. He guided those present to the exact location that were referred to in those words from the past. His ability to connect narrative, place, and commentary, brought long past thoughts and deeds to life in the minds of the group and will not soon be forgotten.
John Hennessy served as historian at Manassas National Battlefield and currently is the director of the Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park in Fredericksburg, VA. John was asked and has agreed to return to lead a similar tour of the First Battle of Manassas for Gate Post Estates residents, possibly later this year.
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