Appomattox Court House

Appomattox Court House is a courthouse in Virginia located within a 968-acre national park that preserves the landscape and buildings from the Civil War period. The complex includes the McLean House, where the surrender agreement was signed, along with other period structures that visitors can explore.

The Confederate surrender occurred here in April 1865 when General Lee met with Union commanders to end the Civil War's fighting. This moment marked the beginning of the nation's reunification process.

This location holds deep meaning for Americans as the place where one nation's conflict reached its end through negotiation rather than continued bloodshed. Visitors come to reflect on a turning point that shaped the country's future.

The park is open daily and visitors can walk through buildings and view exhibits about the surrender and the war's conclusion. Wear comfortable shoes since there is considerable walking through restored structures and outdoor areas.

The surrender agreement included an unusual provision allowing Confederate soldiers to keep their personal horses and mules for use in spring planting after the war ended. This detail reveals how the peace terms considered the soldiers' return to farming and civilian life.

Location: Virginia

Inception: April 10, 1940

GPS coordinates: 37.35889,-78.82639

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:07