Middletown Secures Key Civil War Battlefield Parcel on Main Street

The Town of Middletown has added another piece of history to its growing list of preserved green spaces with the recent purchase of a battlefield parcel at 7881 Main Street, right along historic U.S. Route 11.

This land witnessed intense fighting during the Battle of Cedar Creek on October 19, 1864, one of the most important battles of the Civil War in the Shenandoah Valley. Thanks to a full year of respectful negotiations, the town was able to purchase the land for $213,000, down from the original listing price of $251,000.

The parcel includes a rare double lot with no buildings, making it especially valuable for preservation. Town leaders say the purchase not only protects historic ground, but also prevents unwanted development that could add traffic, strain local utilities, or increase school enrollment in already crowded areas.

“Open green spaces have major benefits for a community,” said Vice Mayor Jeffrey H. Pennington. “They preserve our history, offer beauty and tranquility, and protect our infrastructure from overdevelopment.”

The new purchase brings the total land preserved within Middletown’s town limits to nearly 40 acres, including the well-loved Town Park, Veterans Memorial, and the recently acquired Bernstein parcel. When combined with almost 2,100 acres of preserved battlefield managed by nearby park partners, Middletown continues to lead the way in protecting the heritage and charm of the area.

Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV said this is the second Main Street property purchased by the town this year. “This purchase is another major step in protecting our heritage, controlling growth, and ensuring Middletown remains a beautiful and balanced place for future generations,” Harbaugh said. “We hope our park partners are energized by our recent efforts to continue to preserve properties in and around Middletown.”

To learn more about the town’s preservation efforts, visit www.middletownva.gov or contact the Town Office at (540) 869-2226.