Preservation Deal Helps Middletown Save Battlefield and Rebuild Historic Train Station

A historic Civil War battlefield and a beloved train station are getting new life thanks to a $75,000 preservation easement between the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation and the Town of Middletown.

Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV accepts a $75,000 check from the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation, marking a major step forward in preserving Cedar Creek Battlefield and rebuilding Middletown’s historic train station. Courtesy photo.

The agreement permanently protects 23 acres of land at Cedar Creek Battlefield, one of the most important Civil War sites in the Shenandoah Valley. Instead of being developed, the land will remain open and accessible to the public. The parcel sits near the center of town, close to the historic Wayside Inn, and includes 20 acres purchased by the town and 3 acres donated by a local developer.

In return for granting a conservation easement on the land, Middletown received $75,000 from the Battlefields Foundation. That money is being used to help fund the rebuilding of the town’s historic B&O Train Station, which will soon become home to the Winchester & Middletown Model Railroad Association.

Battlefields Foundation CEO Keven Walker called the deal a powerful example of preservation in action. “Preserving this land honors the sacrifices made here 161 years ago,” Walker said. “And now, thanks to Middletown’s vision, that preservation will also help build something new—a destination that connects history, community, and education.”

Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV echoed those thoughts, calling it a victory for both heritage and local development. “This is a win for both history and the future,” Harbaugh said. “Not only does it protect our heritage, but it also creates new opportunities to reinvest in our town’s future.”

The land will remain open space with trails, public access, and interpretive signs to help visitors learn about the battle that took place there during the Civil War. Cedar Creek was the site of a major Union victory in October 1864 and remains one of the most visited Civil War sites in the region.

Meanwhile, the $75,000 easement payment is helping turn a longtime dream into reality. Middletown’s historic B&O Train Station is being rebuilt as a hub for history lovers and train enthusiasts. The Winchester & Middletown Model Railroad Association plans to use the building for club meetings, model train displays, and a museum.

Support for the station project has been strong. Former Valley Proteins CEO J.J. Smith donated $50,000, while Dave Holliday Construction and Project Manager Patrick Sowers have contributed over $100,000 in services and support. With the new easement funds, the station is nearing its funding goal.

“Every dollar from this easement is being used twice—once to preserve hallowed ground and again to bring life back to a beloved landmark,” Harbaugh said. “This partnership shows how historic preservation can fuel community revitalization.”

Construction officially began this month, with completion expected in spring 2026. The Model Railroad Association signed a 25-year renewable lease with the town, ensuring the station will remain a public resource for decades.

For more information about battlefield preservation efforts, visit www.ShenandoahAtWar.org.

To follow the model railroad project, check out the Winchester & Middletown Model Railroad Association on Facebook at facebook.com/WinchesterModelRailroad.

(Taken from press release)