Gaines’ Mill Battlefield, Richmond National Battlefield Park

Description

On this site occurred one of the Seven Days’ Battles of Richmond. Meadows adjacent to the parking lot, which are maintained for historic purposes, are used by a variety of species that prefer open pastureland. Trails along the fields’ borders offer access to the woodland habitat.

Brown-headed cowbirds, pictured here, eastern bluebirds, and eastern phoebes are frequently seen on the fencing. Photo Credit: Lisa Mease/DWR

Gravel trails wind through a beautiful tract of old-growth hardwoods that may have been young saplings at the time of the battle. Massive tulip poplars, red and white oaks, and American beech dominate the canopy. The large deciduous trees make for very interesting birding in early spring before leaf-out. During spring migration, the tops of these trees may be loaded with migrating passerines. Straining to scan the treetops may give the lucky observer “warbler neck,” a condition many birders are grateful to experience after a great day of spring birding. A small creek and adjacent foodplain at the bottom of the ravine host salamanders in spring and summer.

Notes:

• Please be mindful of the property lines while exploring Gaines Mill; adjacent properties, including Watt House next to the parking lot, are privately owned.

Directions

Physical Address: 6283 Watt House Rd, Mechanicsville, VA 23111

From I-295, take the SR-615/Creighton Road exit and merge onto SR-615/Creighton Road, at the traffic circle, take the 1st exit onto VA-156 S/Cold Harbor Rd, then slight right onto SR-718/Watt House Road, and follow it to the parking area.