What's ahead in 2006

Park development is key

Continued development of Battlefield Park at the Barnett-Gibbs-Herndon estate will be a major effort of the Battle of Richmond Association (BORA) in 2006.

It's also anticipated that the Bluegrass Army Depot's Quarters 29 (Rogers-Terrill house) soon will be deeded to the Madison County Fiscal Court.  When that occurs, the court will ask BORA to begin plans for converting the house into a Battle of Richmond Visitor's Center.  Quarters 29 is located near the intersection of U.S. 421 and 25 just south of Richmond.

Other efforts in 2006 include additional land acquisition, preservation of existing buildings (Herndon House, slave quarters), development of interpreted trails and more interpretative signage in the park and along the 17-mile Battle of Richmond corridor (Big Hill to Richmond).

Museum exhibits are planned for structures at the park along with additional rest room facilities and shelter areas.  The Rose Barn Theater, new home of  the Richmond Area Theater, continues to undergo improvements and renovations at the Herndon House are expected to making that facility more compatible for public meetings and activities.  Improvements in parking facilities and to roadways also are anticipated.

An ongoing archaeological program for Battlefield Park will continue as will work with area schools and universities to develop interest in and knowledge of the battlefield.  Also, BORA will seek approval for the reconstruction of the Merritt Jones Tavern in the Big Hill area off U.S. 421.