"One of Virginia's Historic Gems" Fredericksburg by Tom_Fields

This town goes back to the very early days. Its old downtown is still very well preserved (or should I say restored). The town is quite walkable, and offers a number of attractions.

Part of the battlefield at Fredericksburg

In 1862, during the Civil War, General Burnside became the new commander of the Union Army. He replaced General McClellan, who had been widely regarded as too timid and not aggressive enough. Burnside was aggressive, all right.

Burnside ordered a direct, frontal assault on Confederate troops who were well trained, well armed, backed by strong artillery, and determined to win. They also occupied the strategic high ground.

The result was one of the worst defeats in American history. Learn the lessons of this key battle by touring the field with a park ranger. Sadly, European generals failed to take heed; the same thing occurred yet again on the battlefields of the Western Front in World War I.

Longstreet's guns stood atop this hill

During the Battle of Fredericksburg, General Longstreet positioned his big guns on the high ground overlooking the field. This is where Fredericksburg National Cemetery is today.

• Pros:Very historic town
• In a nutshell:An excellent day outing from Washington or Richmond