Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation
History Research Fellowship
Supporting research into the American Civil War era in the Shenandoah Valley through access to the Foundation’s library, collections, historic sites, and preserved battlefields.
The 2026 Fellowship
In 2026, the Foundation will host either one research fellow for a one- or two-week session, or two fellows for one-week sessions.
Each fellowship provides $1,250 per one-week session to support travel and per diem expenses. Researchers will use the Foundation’s John “Jack” Ackerly III Memorial Library at its headquarters in New Market, Virginia, for at least five consecutive days per session.
Who May Apply
Fellowships are open to graduate students, academics, teachers, museum professionals, and independent scholars whose research interests may benefit from the Foundation’s holdings, collections, and historic sites.
Research Focus
Fellowships will be awarded to applicants focusing on the American Civil War era in the Shenandoah Valley, broadly conceived, whose topics match the Foundation’s collections.
Library and Collections
The Foundation’s library includes approximately 5,000 Civil War books, including complete sets of The Official Records of the War of the Rebellion, The Official Records of the Union and Confederate Navies in the War of the Rebellion, the Roster of Union Soldiers, 1861–1865, the Confederate State Rosters, The Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, the Virginia Regimental Series, Confederate Veteran, Southern Historical Society Papers, Battles and Leaders of the Civil War, and many more.
The collection also includes more than 3,000 catalogued Civil War periodicals and magazines, along with a growing collection of primary documents and archival materials.
The Foundation’s extensive collection of original artifacts at its historic sites and museums in New Market, Winchester, and Port Republic will also be available for review and examination. Fellows will have access to multiple Civil War battlefields throughout the Valley that are owned, preserved, and interpreted by the Foundation.
Explore Library HoldingsFellowship Requirements and Support
Recipient Requirements
- Complete fellowship research within one year of the award date.
- Make an evening presentation to the public while in residence.
- Submit a written summary of the research project and findings to the Foundation’s Education Committee.
While in Residence
Awardees will receive:
- Lodging
- A photocopy allowance
- Technical support
- Collection orientation
How to Apply
Applicants should send a résumé or C.V. and a cover letter describing their research project and explaining how the Library and the Foundation’s related holdings and collections would benefit their work.
Application deadline: December 1, 2026
Send Materials To
Shenandoah Valley Battlefields FoundationEducation Committee
PO Box 897
New Market, VA 22844
For more information:
540-740-4545
info@svbf.net