Is the Remotest of all Civil War Trails Signs on Your Virginia Bucket List?

Civil War Trails is “the world’s largest open-air museum” With signs located at more than 1500 sites in 6 states (Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania). This sign was placed in what is likely the remotest location of any CWT sign in False Cape State Park in Virginia. It is so remote that it is not even in the Historical Marker Database. The sign details the story of 97 Confederate officers who took control of the USS Maple Leaf on June 10, 1863, while it was transporting them to a Union POW Camp at Fort Delaware. They commandeered the ship and 70 of the men made their escape in small boats landing here. They traveled south down the shoreline, crossed Currituck Sound and eventually made their way back to Confederate lines and Richmond. The escape will be described in more detail in a future post (link).

A description of the park from their website- “Nestled between Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, False Cape State Park is one of the last remaining undeveloped areas along the Atlantic coast. As the former home of the historic Wash Woods community, False Cape honors the hardy souls who made a living from the sea. The park offers an opportunity to experience nature in a unique, primitive setting. Be prepared for weather conditions. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and insect repellent. False Cape features guided kayak trips, primitive camping, interpretive programs, hiking and biking trails, and 6 miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean beach. The park is accessible only by foot, bicycle or boat. Public vehicular access is not allowed at any time. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge interior trails, including East Dike and West Dike trails, are closed from Nov. 1 through Mar. 31, during which park access is restricted to hiking or bicycling along the beach or by boat. Day-use and overnight visitors should read all recommendations regarding visiting the park to be fully prepared. Visitors must follow refuge and False Cape State Park rules and regulations. While pets are allowed in False Cape, you cannot bring them through Back Bay.”