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Published: January 28, 2011
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History buffs and land conservationists are breathing a sigh of relief as a famous Virginia landmark has been saved from development.

Tom Kiernan, President of the National Parks Conservation Association has released the following statements regarding the issue:

“After months of intense debate and a legal challenge led by the Wilderness Battlefield Coalition, we are pleased with Walmart’s decision this morning to abandon its plans to build a Superstore on a privately-owned portion of the Wilderness Battlefield in Orange County, Virginia, next to Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park.

“Pulitzer-Prize winning historian James McPherson has said that this site was in the nerve center of the Union Army during the battle of the Wilderness, which was as significant as the battle of Gettysburg.  The Battle resulted in one of the most decisive moments of the U.S. Civil War, involved more than 150,000 soldiers, and resulted in 30,000 casualties.

“Today’s decision is a victory for protecting our priceless historic landscapes that tell our shared story.  All involved now have the opportunity to work together to preserve this site so that it remains compatible with the national park's meaning and character.  As we commemorate the 150th anniversary of the U.S. Civil War, I urge Americans to work together to protect these sacred places for our children and grandchildren to experience and enjoy in the future.”

source: National Parks Conservation Association

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