Over 300 acres and landmarks in the Battlefield area of Madison County will come under new ownership April 1, 2023. In a deal finalized by both Madison County and Richmond City officials in January, the City of Richmond will assume ownership of the Battlefield Visitors Center, the House, all the walking paths, two empty lots, and around 300 acres that also includes the historic Battle of Richmond grounds.
Richmond City Manager Rob Meinrich tells WBON-TV9, the possibilities of this deal have been in discussions for around 2 years. “The county is not really in the tourism & park business, and the City of Richmond is, so this was a win for both parties.”
Meinrich says the City has already made moves for equipment to start upkeeping and beautifying the space, as well as planning for future uses. “As Richmond continues it’s commitment to develop more parks and green space, this will be another great addition to other plans already in motion,”
Those plans include the new, extensive park design at Goggins and Tates Creek Road. In addition to many soccer fields and amenities, that park will also feature the birthplace of legendary frontiersman Kit Carson. The conversion of Irvington House to a museum for visitors, and the new project on Second Street in the former location of the old armory.
“Since the Battlefield park is a historical site, there are some limitations on what the City can do, but we see it as an opportunity to benefit Parks and Recreation in the City. It can also provide educational trips and opportunities for students, as well as enriching the Battle of Richmond Visitors Center, the Pow Wow Association, the Historical Society and other associated groups,” said Meinrich.
Madison County will continue to retain ownership of the golf course.
