Cannon Branch Fort Shows Value During Civil War

Tucked away in a wooded area off Gateway Blvd. near Manassas Airport, little-known Cannon Branch Fort (technically a redoubt) is now full of life as it was in the early 1860's.

Civil War reenactors and "Living History" displays are part of the 150th anniversary of the First Battle of Manassas (Bull Run) from July 21-24, 2011.  

Cannon Branch Fort was constructed by the the Union Army once they occupied Manassas as a way to guard against Confederate Col. John S. Mosby's Partison Rangers from interrupting supply lines.  It is approx imately 100 x 150 ft.
 
This weekends exhibits include cannon, Signal Corps, and  encampments as they were during the Civil War complete with reenactors. 

A short walk from the parking area lets you see the Signal Corps encampment and cannon is fired at various times throughout the day.  Reenactors for the four-day event are from all over the country. 

"Living History" dispalys will run through Sunday.  The Confederate fort on display is Mayfield Fort on the east side of Manassas.

Living History displays are available throughout Manassas and the National Battlefield site through Sunday.