Near Powhatan in Powhatan County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Derwent
Rest and Reconciliation
Here at Derwent, named after a beautiful lake in England, Lee found the quietness he needed to focus on his future. He often rode his famous warhorse, Traveller, through the Powhatan countryside and conversed with surprised farmers. From Derwent he communicated with former comrades and others who sought his advice. To many Southerners Lee remained a leader and a model of proper conduct during Military Reconstruction. Late in the summer, Judge John W. Brokenbrough of Lexington asked Lee to become the president of Washington College there. Lee accepted, leaving his Powhatan retreat on September 15 and devoting the remainder of his life to the education of young men.
“The questions which for years were in dispute between the State and General government, and which unhappily were not decided by the dictates of reason, but referred to the decision of war, having been decided against us, it is the part of wisdom to acquiesce in the result, and of candor to recognize the fact. … All should unite in honest efforts to obliterate the effects of war and to restore the blessings of peace, … promote harmony and good feeling; … and elect to the State and general Legislatures wise and patriotic men, who will devote their abilities to the interest of the country, and the healing of all dissensions.” – Lee to former Virginia Gov. John Letcher, Aug. 28, 1865
“The war being at an end, the Southern States having laid down their arms, and the questions at issue between them and the Northern States having been decided, I believe it to be the duty of everyone to unite in the restoration of the country, and the reestablishment of peace and harmony.” – Lee to Capt. Josiah Tatnall, Savannah, Ga., Sept. 7, 1865
(captions)
Derwent
Lee on Traveller
Erected by Virginia Civil War Trails.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War, US Civil. In addition, it is included in the Virginia Civil War Trails series list. A significant historical month for this entry is April 1864.
Location. Marker has been permanently removed. It was located near 37° 36.331′ N, 78° 4.778′ W. Marker was near Powhatan, Virginia, in Powhatan County. Marker was on Derwent Road (Virginia Route 646) 1.3 miles west of Trenholm Road (Virginia Route 629) when traveling west. The marker is located on the circle at the end of Derwent Road.
THE HOUSE IS A PRIVATE RESIDENCE - the owners have indicated that they do not wish to be disturbed.
. Touch for map. Marker was at or near this postal address: 6000 Derwent Road, Powhatan VA 23139, United States of America.
We have been informed that this sign or monument is no longer there and will not be replaced. This page is an archival view of what was.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 5 miles of this location, measured as the crow flies. A different marker also named Derwent (a few steps from this marker); Muddy Creek School (approx. 1.1 miles away); Mosby’s Tavern / Cumberland Old Courthouse (approx. 3.6 miles away); Rosenwald School at Cartersville (approx. 4.3 miles away); Campaign of 1781 (approx. 4.4 miles away); a different marker also named Campaign of 1781 (approx. 4.4 miles away); Hamilton High School (approx. 4.4 miles away); Cumberland County / Powhatan County (approx. 4˝ miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Powhatan.
Credits. This page was last revised on December 9, 2022. It was originally submitted on April 27, 2009, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. This page has been viewed 3,302 times since then and 137 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on April 27, 2009.