There are several interesting sites to see before you come to the Ehrlich’s house. Both of these local sites are relevant to the Civil War Battle of the Wilderness, which took place essentially in our “backyard.” This battle — effectively a draw between Union and Confederate forces inflicted nearly 2/3 as many casualties on both sides as Gettysburg the costliest battle of the entire war. Both sites are on Rt. 20 which is a turn-off from Rte 3 about 2 miles to the west of the gate to the Lake of the Woods. If you only have time for one you may find #1 more interesting.
- Ellwood Manor, located at 36380 Constitution Highway (Route 20), Locust Grove, Virginia 22508 is open 10 AM to 5 PM. You should allow at least 30 minutes here, for the free informative tour of the house and how it fits into the 1864 Battle of the Wilderness.
- Wilderness Exhibit Shelter at Saunders Field, This is also located on Rt. 20 a bit further from route 3 than Ellwood Manor. Schedule about 30 minutes, including walking some of the path. This is open from 9AM to 5PM most every day.
You will need to go back to route 3 afterwards to enter Lake of the Woods which is a few miles further west.