Explore Beyond the Battlefield
We work with communities and individuals to bring history to life—one remarkable stop at a time! Our sites connect you to powerful stories and landmarks and invite you to map out adventures in between—from scenic hiking trails to charming downtowns to roadside restaurants you’ll never forget.
Our Mission
For over 30 years, we have partnered with communities to share their rich histories. Travelers look to Civil War Trails to put them in the footsteps of generals, soldiers, citizens, and freedom seekers, experiencing all the pivotal stories of the war that shaped our nation.
Today, the program guides visitors across a network of more than 1,500 sites across six states. There’s always something new to see as our program continues to grow and as we add new sites, and update existing ones as new research comes to light.
Fifth grade friends Brenna, Campbell, and Madison having a blast exploring Civil War Trails sites along the old Manassas Gap Railroad line.
Thomas, a descendant of United States Colored Troops helps install a sign about his ancestors, at Carmichael Park In Oliver Springs TN.
Our Visitors
We welcome visitors from around the world! Beyond our dedicated history-loving audience, Civil War Trails have become a gateway to authentic experiences enjoyed by travelers of all ages and backgrounds. As you journey our historic routes, you’ll discover local food, craft drinks, and opportunities to hike, bike, and paddle. It’s no wonder we’re seeing more visitors in the 25–34 age range. But Civil War Trails is more than an adventure—when you stand in the footsteps of history, these stories become more relevant than ever before.
Our Staff
We are here to support our partners, sites, and visitors.
Chris Brown
Executive Director
Ashley McCuistion
Membership and Projects Manager
Terry Heder
Historian/Editor
Victoria Tolson
Administrative Assistant
Jason Shaffer
Operations
Our Board
Civil War Trails is a 501 C-3 non-profit governed by a dedicated board of directors representing our program’s reach. Board members are appointed by the partnering state travel offices or selected from our regional tourism partners. Together, they help steer Trails as a unique tourism initiative.
André Nabors
Chairman
Mary Fugere
Vice Chairman
Jessica Hollingsoworth
Treasurer
John Fieseler
Past Chairman
Joshua Gooden
Secretary
Appointed Directors
- Rob Sherrill, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development
- Ennis Smith, West Virginia Department of Tourism
- Val Guffy, Virginia Tourism Corporation
- Andre’ Nabors, Visit North Carolina
Regional Directors
Virginia
- Beverley Hawthorne, South Central Region
- Josh Gooden, Shenandoah Valley
- Patrick Lennon, Northern Region
- Kalen Hunter, Southwest Region
- Mary Fugere, Coastal Region
- Julie Perry, Central Region
Tennessee
- Jessica Hollingsworth, Statewide
- Sara Beth Urban, Statewide
West Virginia
- Lisa Stader, Southern Region
- Anne Beardslee, Eastern Region
- Susan Riddle, Northern Region
Maryland
- Vacant, Eastern Region
- Amanda Hof, Central Region
- Becky Bickerton, Western Region
North Carolina
- Peter Koch, Western Region
- Andrew Duppstadt, Eastern Region
- Vacant, Central Region
Pennsylvania
- Melissa Beaverson, Statewide