Lee's Retreat: High Bridge
April 6-7, 1865
High Bridge Then
High Bridge Now
The High Bridge figures prominently into Lee’s Retreat in several ways: first, a battle was fought at the eastern approach to the bridge during the battle of Sailor’s Creek; secondly, Sheridan crossed high bridge crossed High Bridge to attack Lee at Cumberland Church.
The view down the south side of the bridge showing the origonal pillars for the double decker bridge.
Blow up of the old bridge pillars.
View down the north side of the bridge showing the new pillars.
The High Bridge site was not officially accessible to the public until recently a hiking path has been opened up to the west side of the bride that run all the way from Farmville. You don’t have to start at Farmville though there is a parking area on route 600 next to a cell phone tower. From Farmville turn right on 657, the first right after Cumberland Church, turn right again on 600. You can see the tower from 657 so just drive to it.
The bridge itself is fenced off with no go signs but I have heard that there is a plan to open the trail across the bridge all the way to Rice’s Depot; it would be something like 35 miles long altogether.
This is the trail to the bridge across the street from the parking area. It's a mile to the bridge.
There are a couple of old pieces of farm equipment along the way.
The house dates to the time but it is mostly hidden by trees.
The bridge approach is still under guard but they they can be bought off with a smile.
The trail to Farmville, it's about three miles to town. The parking area is on the right if you decide to drive.