Beginning Peace and Reunion

On April 9, 1865, the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia in the McLean House in the village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia signaled the effective end of the nation's largest war. Questions remained: could the nation reunite as one? How would emancipation be realized?

Aerial view of the village, Appomattox Court House
Visiting the Park

Plan your visit to Appomattox Court House NHP.

Federal Troops marching with rifles in hand
Appomattox Campaign

General Grant's victory was the product of eight-day campaign that ended at Appomattox Court House.

Civil war era dressed soldiers march through a grassy field
Battle of Appomattox Court House

The armies confronted each other on the gently rolling terrain in and around Appomattox Court House at dawn on April 9, 1865.

A wheeled leather chair in front of a wooden table with documents spread out on top.
The Surrender Meeting

Cornered by Federal forces, Confederate General Robert E. Lee faced the decision to surrender his forces.

East side of McLean House with both front porches and ice house at sunset
The McLean House

Why was the McLean House chosen for the famous meeting and what has happened to the house since 1865?

Printing press similar to the one used for parole passes for Confederates at Appomattox CH
Appomattox Parole List

The soldiers of the Army of Northern Virginia were issued parole passes granting safe passage home, free food, and free transportation.

John Peck, USCT
United States Colored Troops

More than 5,000 USCTs, participated in the Battle of Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865.

Last updated: June 23, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park
P.O. Box 218
Appomattox, VA 24522

Phone:

434 694-8904

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