Just an hour from Oak Grove, old men and young boys from this region successfully defended a railroad bridge against a raid by federal troops 149 years ago. Though Confederates lost the Civil War only a short time later, the 
Battle of Staunton River is looked upon with pride by descendants of the local combatants. To mark the anniversary, two days of festivities will be held at Staunton River Battlefield State Park on Friday, June 21, and Saturday, June 22.
On Friday at 8 p.m., visitors can tour the battleground by wagon. On Saturday, a guided tour will begin at 10:30 at the famous bridge. Members of the Sappony Indian Nation will serve lunch afterward. Then, at 12:30, visitors can see Gen. Robert E. Lee himself (well, really a reenactor) describe the battle and the final months of the Confederacy. Throughout the day, a Living History Encampment will include prisoner demonstrations, camp life, weapon demonstration and Confederate cooking.