Preservation News This & That
By Joseph F. Wilson · Originally published November-December 2024 · pp. 53
Preservation Triumphs: Middletown’s Commitment to Honoring its Heritage The preservation of 30 acres in Middletown, Virginia, stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the community to safeguarding its rich historical legacy. This significant achievement, celebrated by Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV and the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation, marks a pivotal milestone in the ongoing endeavor to honor and protect our nation’s past. The preservation effort prevents over 85 houses from coming to Middletown. The latest Census of Agriculture data from the United States Department of Agriculture, released Feb. 13, revealed that Frederick County had over 15,000 fewer acres of farmland in 2022 than it did in 2017, when there was a total of nearly 110,000 acres. Middletown lies in Frederick County, the fastest growing county in the state of Virginia. The 5-acre parcel, adjacent to a 25-acre, 2022 preserved tract in Middletown, serves as a crucial extension of the cherished Civil War battlefield. Mayor Harbaugh underscored the profound importance of this strategic conservation effort, emphasizing its role in preserving local history for future generations. By safeguarding this land, not only do we protect tangible remnants of the past, but we also ensure that the stories and memories embedded within these hallowed grounds endure. Integral to this preservation endeavor is the inclusion of the Historic Miller House, a poignant symbol of the region’s rich heritage. The significance of this milestone cannot be overstated; it epitomizes the community’s steadfast commitment to fostering a vibrant and resilient future rooted in an appreciation for its historical roots. The property saw significant action during the October 19, 1864, Battle of Cedar Creek. During the battle, Middletown experienced the tide of war as Confederates pushed Union troops from their camps through town during the morning and then fled the Union counterattack in the afternoon. Heavy fighting occurred just north of Wilkerson’s Tavern (Wayside Inn), and scattered fighting occurred in the streets. Artillery and small arms fire damaged several buildings and properties in town. Vice Mayor Jeffrey H. Pennington, a longtime reenactor and supporter of the battlefield, said, “Preserving parts of the battlefield internal to the town and creating a future usable greenspace is important in preserving the historic integrity of Middletown.” The significance of these preservation efforts extends
beyond mere conservation; they serve as poignant reminders of the pivotal events that shaped our nation’s history. Indeed, the Miller House, the furthest advance of Jubal Early’s Confederate army, serves as a tangible link to a crucial moment in time. Reflecting on this pivotal juncture, one cannot help but ponder the profound impact it may have had on the course of history, particularly in the context of President Lincoln’s re-election. Mayor Harbaugh extended his heartfelt appreciation to Vice Chairman Nic Picerno and Executive Director Keven Walker of the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation for their unwavering support and dedication to Middletown. Their collaborative efforts have been instrumental in realizing this transformative project, further solidifying Middletown’s position as a guardian of its cultural heritage. With this combined 30-acre parcel, nine acres at Middletown Town Park, and a one acre tract at the Veterans Memorial, the town now has 40 acres of preserved land within the town and close to 2,000 more just outside town limits. Looking ahead, the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation eagerly anticipates continued partnership with the Town of Middletown in preserving, protecting, and interpreting the hallowed grounds of the Cedar Creek Battlefield. Mayor Harbaugh’s steadfast advocacy for historical preservation aligns seamlessly with the foundation’s mission to provide open-air classrooms where the public can connect with and honor the sacrifices made nearly 160 years ago. As we commemorate these preservation achievements, we are reminded of the enduring importance of community collaboration and collective stewardship in safeguarding our shared heritage. Through continued partnership and dedication, we can ensure that the stories etched into the landscape of Cedar Creek Battlefield remain a source of inspiration for generations to come.
Photo in front of the Miller House: Left to Right (Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV, Vice Chairman of SVBF Nic Picerno, Back Creek Supervisor for Frederick County John Jewell, CEO of SVBF Keven Walker)
Photographs from the Original Article
Captions and credits appear in the article text as originally printed.