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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.

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Fifth grade friends Brenna, Campbell, and Madison having a blast exploring Civil War Trails sites along the old Manassas Gap Railroad line.

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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.

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Chris Brown

Executive Director

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Ashley McCuistion 

Membership and Projects Manager

Terry Heder

Historian/Editor

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Victoria Tolson

Administrative Assistant

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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.

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André Nabors

Chairman

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Mary Fugere

Vice Chairman

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Jessica Hollingsoworth

Treasurer

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John Fieseler

Past Chairman

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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

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