The Tri-Cities and the Commonwealth of Virginia are mourning the loss of Chris Calkins, whose decades of work as a historian left an indelible mark on the region. Chris passed away this morning, leaving behind a legacy of scholarship, preservation, and heartfelt personal connections that will be remembered for generations.
Chris dedicated his life to preserving the history of Petersburg and its surrounding battlefields. His tireless research and passion for history led to the creation of Saylers Creek Battlefield Park, now a cherished site for visitors and historians alike. He not only documented the battle in meticulous detail but also wrote the book on it, helping secure funding and becoming the park’s first superintendent—a role he filled with dedication and pride. His love for history extended beyond textbooks and plaques; it was alive in the stories he shared and the way he connected the past with the present.
Beyond his professional achievements, Chris was a cherished friend and neighbor. He shared a beautiful life with his wife, Sarah, in their High Street home. Friends remember moments spent together, including the poignant and humorous eulogy he gave for their beloved cat, Robert, a local celebrity who appeared on CBS-6 and in the Progress-Index. These memories capture the warmth, humor, and humanity that defined Chris’s life.
