From academic buildings on JMU’s campus to local high schools and apartment complexes, Ashby is a popular choice for naming locations in the Harrisonburg area.
Turner Ashby served as a cavalry commander under Stonewall Jackson during the Civil War. Many stories depicting his success in battles have become legendary in and around the area. The great leader fell in battle just before the Confederacy won the battles of Cross Keys and Port Republic, both epic victories in the South’s battle against Union forces.
A monument constructed where Turner Ashby fell now stands as a marker on the Civil War Trails of Virginia, along with roadside signs lining today’s Port Republic Road. The Civil War Trails pinpoint some of the most important and historic events of the Civil War and reach from South Carolina to Pennsylvania. They provide a great opportunity to learn about the history of Harrisonburg. Traveling the trails is a fun activity to partake in on a nice fall day in the Valley.
Web sites: www.civilwartraveler.com/virginia
Hours: Hours vary.
Cost: Most stops along the trail are free of charge or have a minimal fee.
Directions to the Turner Ashby Monument and park: One mile east of the I-81 intersection, take a left off Port Republic Road at the sign marking the Turner Ashby Monument. Road signs on Port Republic Road southeast of Harrisonburg describe the activity in town during the two battles. A walking tour on part of the battlefield is offered at the site of “The Coaling” located just off US 340 northeast of town.