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About this sound
In June of 1864, 475 men of the 36th United States Colored Troops embarked across the Potomac into Westmoreland County and the Northern Neck of Virginia during the Civil War. Their expedition began here at Pope's Creek, near the site of George Washington's birthplace. This month marks the 160th anniversary of the raid. Guest interpreter Steward Henderson joins us from Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP to tell the story. Intro music courtesy of Wolf Patrol. Outro music courtesy of Brumbaugh Family
Why parks record sound
The NPS Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division monitors soundscapes in parks across the United States. Natural quiet is treated as a resource to protect, like clean air or dark skies: noise from aircraft, vehicles and machinery can mask animal communication and change the experience of a place.
More sounds
Episode 3: The Power of Story
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
Episode 2: The Power of Mystery
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
Episode 7: America’s Semiquincentennial in Virginia
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
Episode 4: The Power of Art
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
Sources & credits
- Episode 6: Summer of 1864 at Pope’s Creek by US National Park Service – Public domain