Explore historic encampments in Spotsylvania and Stafford counties set up after the Battle of Fredericksburg in winter 1862, and visit sites associated with the Second Battle of Fredericksburg and Salem Church in May 1863, an important phase of the Chancellorsville Campaign.

Begin with a stop in Stafford County at the White Oak Museum, which houses an outstanding collection of artifacts associated with Union camp life. Continue to Belle Plain and Aquia Landing. Venture off the beaten path to tour sites associated with the Confederate defense line from December 1862 to May 1863. Lunch is at Claiborne’s Restaurant in Fredericksburg.

Most battlefields of the Second Battle of Fredericksburg and the Battle of Salem Church have been lost. During the afternoon, visit the few that remain, including Marye’s Heights, which figured prominently during the First Battle of Fredericksburg, and Salem Church, used as a hospital by both sides. Civil War authority Ed Bearss leads the tour.

CODE: 1ND-045

8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. by bus from the southeast corner of the Air and Space Museum, 4th St. and Independence Ave., S.W., with a pickup stop at the Horner Road commuter lot bus shelter, I-95, Exit 158B, at about 8:25 a.m.

Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear for a considerable amount of walking.