My name is Nick Love, and I am a fourth year History major at UVA. Once again, I had the privilege of working as a Nau Center intern at Appomattox Court House National Historical Park this summer, and I could not wait to get back. Appomattox is a place where history is alive in the landscape, the buildings, and the people who care for them. Walking through the park feels like stepping back into the past—the scenery is bucolic, quiet, and full of reminders that the end of one of America’s greatest conflicts happened here. Yet what I soon discovered is that Appomattox is more than the story of Lee’s surrender to Grant. It is a place full of lesser-known histories, stories of ordinary people, and a strong community dedicated to preserving and interpreting the past.
From the start, I was welcomed into that community. This year, I was welcomed back with hugs and hearty handshakes. It felt like being back home. Everyone at Appomattox—rangers, maintenance staff, volunteers, everyone—treats one another like family. As an intern, I was not just another set of hands; my ideas and opinions were heard and valued. That sense of belonging made the work especially meaningful, and it has left me with lifelong friends and mentors who share a passion for history.
Hands-On Experience with Museum Collections
One of the greatest parts of my internship was the chance to work closely with David Wooldridge, the museum curator and technician. David is not only skilled in museum care but is also a banjo player and folk music expert, which added a unique flavor to our projects and discussions. Together, we repaired museum displays and worked behind the scenes to make sure the artifacts and exhibits continued to tell their stories in a safe and effective way.
I also assisted in training seasonal rangers who wanted to cross-train in the field of museum curation and care. Helping others learn about museum work gave me a new appreciation for the responsibilities that go into preserving historic objects—not just for scholars, but for future generations of visitors. Cleaning historical items and preparing spaces, such as the Joel Sweeney house, was especially rewarding. That site became the backdrop for a banjo documentary featuring David, which showed me how careful preservation can keep history relevant in new ways.
Research and Archival Work
My internship also involved deep research and transcription projects that took me into the lives of 19th-century Americans. I completed over thirty transcriptions of newspapers, census records, muster rolls, letters, and diaries. Each document was like a time capsule, whether a soldier’s account, a family’s census entry, or a fragment from a local paper, these sources revealed the personal dimensions of the war and its aftermath.
I also conducted research on regiments and individuals, tracing where soldiers had been wounded, killed, or buried. This task often led me into detailed studies of troop movements on the morning of April 9, 1865, the very day of surrender at Appomattox. It was humbling to piece together the fates of men who had fought in those final hours and to see how their stories connected to the landscape around me.
Sometimes, this research meant reaching out to repositories beyond Appomattox to request information on their collections. Each exchange reminded me how much history depends on collaboration—no single site or archive can hold the entire story, but together they weave a more complete narrative.
The Wall of Honor Project
The most important project I was entrusted with was the digitization of the Wall of Honor. This exhibit commemorates soldiers who were present at Appomattox, and my role—alongside one of the seasonal rangers—was to go through the old files of these men and add the information into a comprehensive spreadsheet. The goal is to create a digital kiosk that future visitors can use to search for their ancestors and connect their family history to the park.
Working on the Wall of Honor was especially meaningful. It combined so many aspects of public history—careful archival research, the use of technology to improve accessibility, and the personal connection visitors seek when they walk into a historic site. Knowing that my work will contribute to a project that helps families discover their ties to Appomattox is one of the most rewarding parts of my summer.
Training and Professional Growth
Beyond my day-to-day tasks, I had the chance to participate in NPS-wide cultural resources training, which broadened my understanding of the National Park Service’s mission. I also worked closely with Patrick Schroeder, the park historian, assisting with filing, database organization, and ongoing research. These opportunities gave me a clearer picture of the wide range of skills involved in public history—from the practical care of objects to the interpretive storytelling that brings history alive for the public.
Reflection: History, Memory, and Community
Looking back on my time at Appomattox, I realize how much I’ve grown—both professionally and personally. I came here hoping to gain experience in the field of history and museum management, and I leave with not only those skills but also a deeper sense of why history matters.
Appomattox is often remembered simply as the place where the Civil War ended. But what I learned is that it also represents reconciliation, memory, and the importance of preserving the many smaller stories that surround a well-known event. Each artifact repaired, each letter transcribed, each soldier’s name entered into the database adds texture to the larger narrative. Equally important, this internship showed me the value of community. The staff and rangers at Appomattox care deeply about both the park and the people who work there. They welcomed me into their circle, encouraged me to contribute, and made sure I felt that my work had purpose. That sense of belonging, combined with the history I was immersed in daily, made this experience unforgettable.
As my internship ends, I carry with me not only practical skills and professional experiences but also friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. I am grateful to the National Park Service staff at Appomattox who mentored me, challenged me, and made me feel at home.
My last day at Appomattox was by far one of the best days and probably the most memorable one. I went to one of the ranger talks that was being held by Ranger Abigail Swanberg. Her talk told the story of music that was played during the time of the Civil War and how it was used to give marching orders, provide entertainment, and tell stories of hard times that were had by the soldiers. Abigail brings this to life by playing different songs from the time on her violin. David had also brought out his banjo and was playing songs as well. After the talk we sat on the porch of the tavern and played music for anyone that wanted to hear. I even sang a little bit when the spirit took me, which was not hard as their instruments rang out through the village drawing people to us. We interacted with many interesting people from all ages, talking history and music. It was truly one of the best days of my life. I will always cherish that memory and it was the best way to cap off another amazing summer.
For anyone who has not yet visited Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, I encourage you to go. Walk the quiet roads, step inside the historic buildings, and reflect on the events that shaped the nation. History is alive here—and it has a way of staying with you long after you leave.