HAMPTON, Va. – The Battle of Big Bethel (also known as the Battle of Bethel Church) turns 155 years old on Friday. The battle took place in 1861 during the Civil War.
It was known as one of the first major land battles of the war. Inexperienced Massachusetts general, Ebenezer Peirce, and his Union troops were soundly defeated.
The battle was part of the Union’s push to expand their army’s reach toward Richmond. The defeat caused the Union generals to realize that their troops needed more training and experienced leaders.
A ceremony will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Big Bethel Battlefield to commemorate the event. Hosted by Bethel Chapter 185, UDC and the Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau, the Battle of Big Bethel Walking Park and historic markers will be dedicated.
