About

A wide view of Cedar Creek Museum and Visitor Center

The Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation (CCBF), an entirely private 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 1988, is a unique, largely volunteer-operated organization dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the landscape, artifacts, and writings of the 1864 Battle of Cedar Creek. Today, CCBF continues to be an active Key Partner in the management of the Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park.

The landscape of the Cedar Creek Battlefield is constantly threatened by Northern Virginia’s rapid development. Since its formation, CCBF alone has preserved over 350 acres of central battlegrounds, including the Federal XIX Corps Earthworks, a section of the Federal VI Corps position along the Meadow Brook, and the centrally located Heater House. The Heater House, nestled in a hillside just south of Middletown, is the last remaining structure of the original 18th-century homestead that witnessed the Battle of Cedar Creek and over 200 years of Shenandoah Valley history.

CCBF strives to bring the October 19th, 1864, Battle of Cedar Creek to life through museum exhibits, guided and self-guided tours, outdoor trails, and lessons by costumed interpreters during special weekend programs. In addition, lectures, presentations, book signings, and hands-on workshops are scheduled throughout the year to share the diverse stories and rich history of the Shenandoah Valley, life during the mid-19th century, and more. As a private organization, CCBF receives no state or federal funding and relies on the generosity of our members, public contributions, gift shop, event proceeds, and grants to continue our mission of preservation and education.

Mission Statement

The Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation acquires, protects, preserves, and interprets the lands, physical objects, and writings relating to the October 19th, 1864, Battle of Cedar Creek for the educational benefit of scholars, the general public, and future generations.

A wide view of valley with the Heater House in the background

History Comes Alive At Cedar Creek!

Who Are We?

Our Board of Directors

Jeannette Shaffer

President

Gary Rinkerman

Vice President

Cynthia Armstrong

Secretary-Treasurer 

John Cadden

Charles Harbaugh IV

Zsolt "G" Vezsenyi

Martin Downey

The Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation

is a Managing Partner of the Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park with

The Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation is also a Proud Member or Partner of: