Virginia, renowned for its deep Civil War heritage, now finds itself at a crossroads. Plans to build one of the world’s largest AI data centres on historic grounds have sparked a lively debate about preserving the past while embracing modern technology.
At the Manassas National Battlefield Park—the site of the Civil War’s first major battle—the Bull Run Legion brings history to life with reenactments. Today, however, the park is caught in a tug-of-war between celebrating its storied legacy and making way for cutting-edge digital infrastructure.
Tech giants are eyeing this iconic location for a new data centre designed to fuel the booming demand for artificial intelligence processing. While many see these facilities as vital for a digitised future, experts worry that rapid growth could put a strain on local resources like water and energy.
“Do I want to see a data centre on the view line of this park? No, I do not,” says Bart Wheeler, a living historian and IT professional. “But I recognise they’re necessary—there isn’t a simple answer.”
Supporters of the development are keen to balance progress with preservation, proposing features such as informational kiosks and heritage trails. Yet a coalition of community advocates, environmentalists, and history buffs remains concerned that a sprawling new infrastructure could overshadow the park’s educational value and historical significance.
Northern Virginia, often dubbed “data centre alley” due to its cluster of facilities near Washington, D.C. and attractive tax incentives, is already witnessing an industry boom. Plans to add up to 1,200 more data centres are on the horizon, a growth that could see the state’s energy demand quadruple over the next decade and potentially nudge electricity prices upward.
Ann Bennett from the Virginia chapter of the Sierra Club voices these concerns: “This very reputable audit wing of the government says we have a big problem. We’re subsidising these major companies not only with our energy but also with our tax dollars.”
Despite the challenges, significant investments continue to back the data centre industry. David Duncan, president of the American Battlefield Trust, is urging a balanced approach with the proposed Prince William Digital Gateway. “We’re not anti-development,” he explains. “We believe this should be an ‘and’ conversation—one that honours our past while looking to the future.”
As legal battles and community debates unfold, the future of these historic sites remains uncertain. Just as Civil War soldiers witnessed their own era of technological change—from the telegraph to railroads—today’s developments remind us that progress and preservation can, and must, coexist.
