The initial engagement on July 21, 1861 of what would become the First Battle of Bull Run (First Manassas) took place on McLean's farm in Manassas, Virginia. Union Army artillery fired at McLean's house, which was being used as a headquarters for Confederate Brigadier General P. G. T. Beauregard, and a cannonball dropped through the kitchen fireplace.

McLean was a retired major in the Virginia militia, but at 47, he was too old to return to active duty at the outbreak of the Civil War. In the spring of 1863, he and his family moved about 120 miles south to Appomattox County, Virginia, near a dusty, crossroads community called Appomattox Court House.

On April 9, 1865, the war revisited McLean. Confederate General Robert E. Lee was about to surrender to Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant. He sent a messenger to Appomattox Court House to find a place to meet. On April 8, 1865, the messenger knocked on McLean's door and requested the use of his home, to which McLean reluctantly agreed. Lee surrendered to Grant in the parlor of McLean's house, effectively ending the Civil War. Later, McLean is supposed to have said "The war began in my front yard and ended in my front parlor."

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Top Appomattox County Hotel Reviews

Appomattox Inn and Suites

10/10 Excellent

"The staff were very friendly and helpful. They even called to let us know we had forgotten a pair of shoes and had them bagged and waiting for us at the front desk when we came back to get them."

Hotel Weyanoke

10/10 Excellent

"My 2-day stay was reserved for 8/22-8/24 thru Hotels.com. Concluded my business early, decided to return home Saturday at 7;00 AM, and informed your staff of this at 7:00 AM. Was unable to get any credit for the 2nd night from Hotels.com or your Weyanoke staff. I ask that since you will be paid by Hotels.com for both nights, that you credit me for the second night, if you were able to book the room for someone else. Thanks very much. -Greg"