Near Williamsburg in James City County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)

The Battle of Green Spring

— Greensprings Interpretive Trail —

Photographed by Evan Dwyer, February 14, 2026

1. The Battle of Green Spring Marker

Inscription. On July 6, 1781, the Battle of Green Spring was fought in this vicinity. Cornwallis, through an elaborate ruse, tricked the Allies into believing the main body of the British Army had withdrawn across the James River. As a result, when American troops led by General "Mad Anthony" Wayne moved in closer to Jamestown, they were ambushed. When Lafayette, who had moved o a vantage point on the James River, perceived that his men were at risk, he hurried back to Green Spring and stationed men to cover their comrades' hasty retreat. At nightfall both armies retired behind their own lines.

Erected by James City County Parks & Recreation.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Patriots & Patriotism • War, US Revolutionary. A significant historical date for this entry is July 6, 1781.

Location. 37° 14.723′ N, 76° 47.349′ W. Marker is near Williamsburg, Virginia, in James City County. It can be reached from John Tyler Highway (Virginia Route 5) east of Greensprings Road, on the right when traveling east. Marker is on the Greensprings Interpretive Trail. The address given is for Jamestown

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High School, which includes the northern trailhead and parking area. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 3751 John Tyler Highway, Williamsburg VA 23185, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is on Virginia’s Peninsula,

in Coastal Virginia,

and in the Hampton Roads Metropolitan Area.

It is also in the American South,

specifically in the Upper South,

in the Tidewater,

and on the Eastern Seaboard. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region,

North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture,

one of the original Thirteen Colonies,

one of the Confederate States of America,

and the Antebellum South.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Mainland Farm (here, next to this marker); Agriculture on the Mainland (a few steps from this marker); Abandoned Farm Equipment (a few steps from this marker); The Governor's Land (within shouting distance of this marker); Early Life on the Main (about 300 feet away,

Photographed by Evan Dwyer, February 14, 2026

2. The Battle of Green Spring Marker

There are other markers about the battle on the opposite end of the vast field visible beyond the tree-line. Those other markers are not affiliated with the interpretive trail.

measured in a direct line); a different marker also named Governor's Land (about 400 feet away); Bacon's Rebellion (about 600 feet away); Tobacco, The Money Crop (about 700 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Williamsburg.

Another marker is no longer nearby. Bacon's Rebellion (was about 600 feet away but has been permanently removed).

Photographed by Evan Dwyer, February 14, 2026

3. The Battle of Green Spring Marker

Marker is the one on the right. There are four markers overall at this clearing & bench area.

Credits. This page was last revised on March 16, 2026. It was originally submitted on March 13, 2026, by Evan Dwyer of Richmond, Virginia. This page has been viewed 17 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on March 13, 2026, by Evan Dwyer of Richmond, Virginia. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.