This is our museums centerpiece and pride and joy. It is a depiction of the Battle of Cedar Creek, Virginia with General Phil Sheridan riding Rienzi (a.k.a. Winchester) onto the field of battle to rally the Vermont troops and turn the tide of battle. This battle occurred on 19 October, 1864.

The original painting was designed and painted by Vermont native Charles H. Andrus and was done on a massive 17' by 28' canvas, reminiscent of the then popular, theater curtains.

Here is an in depth chronological history of how this exceptional painting came to end up at our museum.

Also, here is a link to a work in progress statement by artist Charles Andrus explaining how he came to create this painting and an in depth explanation of the battlefield layout, battalion positions and personnel involved in the conflict.