Tennessee Civil War Sesquicentennial Events

Aug 12, 2011

 

Tennessee official state sanctioned Sesquicentennial Events sponsored by the Tennessee Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission and the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area includes a series of major signature conferences on battles, events, and stories of the Civil War.  These events are free and open to the public.  For more information visit tncivilwar150.com. 

 

Sept. 6-7, 2011     Tennessee Sesquicentennial Signature Event - "Civil War in the Borderlands"

Location:               Cookeville - Tennessee Tech University

 

April 4-5, 2012     Tennessee Sesquicentennial Signature Event - "Invasion by Rail and River"

Location:               Pickwick Landing State Park and Shiloh National Military Park

Tennessee official state sanctioned Sesquicentennial Events sponsored by the Tennessee Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission and the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area includes a series of major signature conferences on battles, events, and stories of the Civil War.  These events are free and open to the public.  For more information visit tncivilwar150.com. 

 

Sept. 6-7, 2011     Tennessee Sesquicentennial Signature Event - "Civil War in the Borderlands"

Location:               Cookeville - Tennessee Tech University

 

April 4-5, 2012     Tennessee Sesquicentennial Signature Event - "Invasion by Rail and River"

Location:               Pickwick Landing State Park and Shiloh National Military Park

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional 2011 Tennessee events, reenactments and festivals related to the Civil War planned in communities across the state include:

 

July 27 - Aug.       1861 - The Civil War in Tennessee

Ongoing through early August TSLA features an exhibit about Tennessee and the first year of the Civil War. The free exhibit illustrates the impact of slavery on the Union, the divisive election of 1860, beginnings of southern secession and Tennessee's gradual shift toward becoming a Confederate state. Major Military actions in 1861 include the shelling of Fort Sumter, the Battle of Bull Run and the implementation of the Union blockade.

 

August 8 - 14        Living Under The Guns

11:00 am - 11:30 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro, TN

Experience the war through the stories of civilians

 

August 13              Cheatham County Civil War Trail Marker Dedication

                                10:00 a.m.

Location:               South Cheatham Library, 358 North Main Street, Kingston Springs, Tennessee 37082-0310

City Mayor John McLeroy will provide opening remarks. Dr. Carrol Van West, director of MTSU Center for Historic Preservation and Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area and co-chair of the Tennessee Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission and Patrick McIntyre, executive director of the Tennessee Historical Commission will speak on the historical importance of Kingston Springs and the Civil War Railroad. 615-952-4752 http://southcheathamlibrary.com/

  

August 13              Bootlegger's Bash

Inspired by Williamson County's unique history of bootlegging, the Bootlegger's Bash is a brand new event that will attract a diverse crowd.  This casual evening will give guests the opportunity to taste flavored whiskeys, enjoy a country pig roast with an array of Southern side dishes, and be entertained by a lively bluegrass band.   

 

August 13-14        Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am- 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro - Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

 

 

 

August 13              Starvation Party Sesquicentennial (150 yrs) of the War Between the States

                                10:00 a.m. - Until

Location:               Milky Way Farm Mansion

Find out what the movements of the handkerchief, parasol, gloves & fan mean. Artillery and munitions

Demonstrations, Fashion show, Living History, Dance lessons, & Games.

For more information call, Cathy Wood 931-638-3024 or Diana Steelman 931-309-9695

 

August 13              Civil War Genealogy Workshop
10 am - 4 pm

Location:               East Tennessee History Center, 601 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN

Free sessions include information about how to research Civil War ancestors and resources in the Tennessee State Library and Archives. The sessions are free. Employees from history center and the Knox County Public Library's McClung Historical Collection will give individual direction and advice about research. Three classes will be conducted by Dr. George K. Schweitzer on "Civil War Genealogy on the Internet." Those classes also are free but require reservations at 865-215-8824 or eths@eastTNhistory.org.  At 11 a.m., Assistant Tennessee State Archivist Dr. Wayne Moore will discuss records available from the Tennessee State Library and Archives (TSLA), Nashville, as well as special resources being developed by the TSLA for the Civil War Sesquicentennial commemoration.

 

August 14              Franklin Civil War Roundtable:  Sam Davis Elliott, Isham Harris

                                3:00 pm

Location:               Williamson County Library, Franklin, TN

Presentations by notable historians and authors cover all aspects of the War. The Round Table is open to the public

 

August 16              Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee

                                10:30 am - 2:30 pm

Location:               Dover, TN

Participation in Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee is open to all individuals who are interested in preserving Tennessee's Civil War history through the digitization of historic materials. http://www.tm.gov/tsla/cwtn/events.htm

 

August 16              Civil War Marker Dedication at Fiddler's Grove

                                7:00 pm

Location:               Wilson County Fairgrounds at Fiddler's Grove,  945 E. Baddour Parkway, Lebanon, TN  37088

 615 443-2626

 

August 18              Special Film about the Underground Railroad

6:30 pm - 8 pm

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Dover, TN

A special film sharing stories from the Underground Railroad

 

August 20              East Tennessee Regional History Fair

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Location:               Downtown Knoxville.

The fair includes Civil War living history encampments, traditional music, crafts, food and book signings.

 

August 20              Hallowed Ground: A Lantern Tour of Stones River National Cemetery

7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Walk through the cemetery by lantern light and listen to the stories of soldiers, and their loved ones, who are buried there.

 

 

 

August 20              Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

August 20-21        A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro - Guided Tour.

 

August 20-21        East Tennessee History Festival, its All History, features a special Civil War emphasis

                                Downtown giant 2 day street fair.

Location:               Gay Street and beyond - www.eastTNhistory.org

 

August 21              Trolley tours of Civil War-related and historic sites

                                1 pm - 4 pm

Location:               In and around downtown Knoxville during the fair.

 

August 21              "Polo for Preservation" Fundraiser

Location:               The Memphis Polo Club - 2650 Stinson Road,  Rossville, TN.

The Memphis Polo Club, in scenic Rossville, Tenn., is just 45 minutes from downtown but feels worlds away from the city. Tickets are $20 per person online and $25 at the gate, and kids under 10 get in free. 

To benefit Memphis Heritage, Inc. Memphis Heritage Inc., 2282 Madison Ave. at Edgewood, Memphis, Tennessee 38104 : 901.272.2727

 

August 25              Book Discussion: "For Cause and Comrades"

                                6:30 pm - 8 pm

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Dover, TN

Why did men choose to fight in the Civil War? A marvelous book explains why.

 

August 27              Hands-On History: at Carnton 9:30-10:30am ($10)

Location:               Carnton Plantation, 1345 Carnton Lane, Franklin, TN 37064

Old Time Toys.  No TVs, no game boys, no cell phones! What did kids do for fun? We will see antique toys and make some of our own. Hands-on History is for children 5-10 yrs. and reservations are required!

 

August 27              Walt Disney's "The Great Locomotive Chase", (1956), 85 Minutes

Location:               Fort Negley, 1100 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville, TN 37203 615-862-8470

Screen legend Fess Parker portrays James J. Andrews in the true story of a Union spy who embarked on a dangerous mission to destroy the South's railroad system.  Free

 

August 27              Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9 am - 10 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro - Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

August 27              Manchester Sesquicentennial Celebration - The Duck River Defense Line

                                10:00 am

Location:               On The Square

The unveiling of Manchester's new Civil War Marker.  Civil War Music & Entertainment, Civil War Storytelling, Canons, & Re-enactors, Food. Contact: Margie Lowe at 931-728-7635 www.macoc.org

 

August 27-28        A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro-  Guided Tour.

 

September 3         Hallowed Ground: A Lantern Tour of Stones River National Cemetery

                                7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Walk through the cemetery by lantern light and listen to the stories of soldiers, and their loved ones, who are buried there.

 

September 3         Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

                                9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

Sept. 3-4                A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro  -  Guided Tour.

 

Sept. 3-4                Fighting for Home and Hearth

11:00 am - 11:30 am, 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm, 2:00 - 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Infantry and artillery demonstrations will help visitors understand the role of Tennessee soldiers in the Battle of Stones River.

 

Sept. 3-4                Artillery Firing Demonstrations

Location:               Shiloh National Military Park

Artillery Firing Demonstrations. (Joe Davis 731-689-5696)

 

Sept. 6                    Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee   The Virginia Civil War 150 Legacy Project. 

                                10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Location:               Cookeville History Museum, 40 East Broad Street, Cookeville, TN 38501 (615-253-3470)

To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War (2011-2015), the Tennessee State Library and Archives will send teams of professional archivists and conservators to communities across Tennessee. You may schedule an appointment, and we will digitally copy and help you preserve your Civil War era manuscripts, artifacts, and photographs. Digital copies of these items, representing the rich Civil War heritage of Tennessee families, can become part of a virtual exhibit commemorating the 150th anniversary of the war in Tennessee. http://www.tn.gov/tsla/cwtn/events.htm

 

Sept. 8-9                Fortress Rosecrans Encampment

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Living history including camps and demonstrations.

 

Sept. 9-11              11th Annual Sycamore Shoals Celtic Festival

Friday Night Torchlight Ceremony 6:30 pm

Saturday - Sunday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday Night Concert 6:30 pm

Location:               1651 West Elk Avenue, Elizabethton, TN 37643 - 423-543-5808

Celebrate Appalachia's Celtic heritage! Opening with a torchlight ceremony Friday Night, Clans and Family Societies will be on hand to help with family history; dance, music, food, vendors, demonstrations, reenactments of 18th & 19th Century heritage, lectures, and a special musical concert on Saturday evening. Admissions Charge

 

September 10      Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

 

Sept. 10-11           Fighting For Home and Hearth

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

 

Sept. 10-11           A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro - Guided Tour.

 

Sept. 11                 "Polo for Preservation" Fundraiser

Location:               The Memphis Polo Club, 2650 Stinson Road,  Rossville, TN.

                                 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

The Memphis Polo Club, in scenic Rossville, Tenn., is just 45 minutes from downtown but feels worlds away from the city. Tickets are $20 per person online and $25 at the gate, and kids under 10 get in free.   To benefit Memphis Heritage, Inc. Memphis Heritage Inc., 2282 Madison Ave. at Edgewood, Memphis, Tennessee 38104 : 901.272.2727

 

Sept. 10-16           National Heritage Quilt Show "Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow: The American Civil

                                War"

Location:               McMinn Living Heritage Museum, Athens, TN (423-745-0329)

The Museum's annual juried quilt show featuring Civil War era reproduction fabrics and patterns.

 

Sept. 15                 Book Discussion:"Nathan Bedford Forrest: A Biography"

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Dover, TN

Exploring the fascinating life of a most fascinating man.

 

Sept. 15-17           Civil War Sesquicentennial Event at Lairdland Farm

Location:               Lairdland Farm House, Cornersville

Come bring the family and experience the unique Living History of the Civil War as the 19th Alabama Civilian Corp and the 13th U.S. Colored Troops reenactors set up camp and offer demonstrations of daily life during the Civil War era. For additional information, please contact Bennita B. Rouleau or Don Rouleau 931-363-2205

www.lairdlandfarmhouse.com

 

September 17      The Civil War Comes to Cumberland Gap

                                2:00 pm

Location:               Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

Civil War program presented by Dr. Earl Hess from Lincoln Memorial University Dr. Earl Hess commemorates the 150th anniversary of the first significant military actions of the Civil War at Cumberland Gap. In September 1861, Confederate forces under General Felix Zollicoffer, which had been stationed at the Gap since June, marched north into the Yellow Creek Valley. They overpowered the Unionist home guard, establishing Camp Buckner at the Cumberland Ford. The South would continue to hold Cumberland Gap until June of 1862. Contact: Martha Wiley,  martha_wiley@nps.gov , Phone: (606) 248-2817, extension 1051.

 

September 17      Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

September 17      Memphis Heritage at the Cooper Young Festival

09/17/2011 - 9:00am - 7:00 p.m.

Location:               The Cooper Young Community Association Bldg.

The Cooper-Young Festival, hosted by the Cooper-Young Business Association (CYBA), is Memphis' most anticipated outdoor celebration. Held in Memphis' largest historic district. In its 24th year, this event has grown tremendously and is one of Memphis' most highly attended Festivals. This year, over 100,000 guests will enjoy an appealing mix of art, music and crafts presented by over 400 artisans from around the country. The Cooper Young Festival is a true celebration of the arts, people, culture and Memphis heritage. Memphis Heritage Inc., 2282 Madison Ave. at Edgewood, Memphis, Tennessee 38104 : 901.272.2727 - www.cooperyoungfestival.com

 

Sept. 17-18           A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro -Guided Tour.

 

Sept. 21-23           Seminar, "Image of War"

Location:               Chattanooga

Annual event sponsored by the Center for Civil War Photography in Chattanooga. Program, lectures and tours, www.imageofwar.org

 

Sept. 24                 The Heritage Foundation of Franklin/Williamson County- 38th Annual Heritage Ball 

Location:                 24 at the Eastern Flank Battlefield Park, adjacent to Historic Carnton Plantation, in Franklin. Cocktails are at 6:00 p.m. with a multi-course dinner and dancing to follow.  The event benefits the Heritage Foundation of Franklin & Williamson County's efforts to protect and preserve historic resources in Franklin and Williamson County, Tennessee.  Tickets are $300 per person. Torrey Barnhill 615.591.8500,Ext. 20

 or by email at tbarnhill@historicfranklin.com. www.historicfranklin.com

 

September 24      Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

Sept. 24-25           Overmountain Victory Trail Celebration

10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Join us for an encampment by the Overmountain militia before the Battle of King's Mountain in 1780. Live some of the most crucial days of the American Revolution!

 

September 24      A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro -Guided Tour.

 

September 24      Hands-On History: at Carter House 9:30-10:30am ($10)

Biscuits and Butter. We will venture into the original kitchen of the Carter House to discuss cooking and food along with having a snack of biscuits and butter that we "churn" by hand! Hands-on History is for children 5-10 yrs and reservations are required!

                 

Sept. 24-25           Artillery Living History Demonstration

Location:               Shiloh National Military Park - Artillery demonstration.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sept. 25                 Overmountain Victory Trail March

 1:00 pm (approximate time)

Location:               1651 West Elk Avenue, Elizabethton, TN 37643 - 423-543-5808

Members of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association have recreated the historic march to King's Mountain since 1975. On September 25, marchers will cross the Watauga River at Sycamore Shoals, just as the Overmountain militia crossed 231 years ago.

 

Sept. 30 - Oct. 2  Battle of Franklin Descendants Reunion

Location:               Historic Carnton Plantation, Franklin, TN

Join us this fall for the eighth Battle of Franklin Descendants Reunion! This event, which began in 1996, brings people together from all over the country with a common connection: familial ties to the Carter Family, the McGavock Family and soldiers who fought in the Battle of Franklin. The weekend event includes lectures, battlefield tours with noted historians, and an opportunity to learn more about Franklin's enduring heritage. The Reunion is open to descendants and members of the Battle of Franklin Trust.

 

Sept. 30 - Oct. 2                  Annual Return to Shiloh BMW Rally

Location:                               Shiloh National Military Park

TVA Campgrounds, Pickwick Dam - weekend of live entertainment, fun and more. www.bmwrams.com

(662-419-0898)

 

September 30 - Oct. 2       Descendants Reunion

 

Join us this fall for the eighth Battle of Franklin Descendants Reunion! This event, which began in 1996, brings people together from all over the country with a common connection: familial ties to the Carter Family, the McGavock Family and soldiers who fought in the Battle of Franklin. The weekend event includes lectures, battlefield tours with noted historians, and an opportunity to learn more about Franklin's enduring heritage. The Reunion is open to descendants and members of the Battle of Franklin Trust.

 

October 1              Hallowed Ground: A Lantern Tour of Stones River National Cemetery

7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Walk through the cemetery by lantern light and listen to the stories of soldiers, and their loved ones, who are buried there.

 

October 1              Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

October 1              A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro  - Guided Tour.

 

October 1              Confederate Hoofbeats

9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Confederate cavalry and artillery demonstrations and tell the story of the mobile arm of the Confederate Army of TN.

 

October 8              Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

Oct. 8-9                  A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro - Guided Tour.

 

October 9              Ames Plantation Heritage Festival

Location:               5 miles north of Grand Junction, TN on Buford Ellington Road. 

The festival sponsored by Ames Plantation and The University of Tennessee, will feature an entertaining and educational approval to the area's rich heritage.  Civil War cavalry and artillery units provide a glimpse into that troubled time in our history with living history encampments and live fire artillery demonstrations.  Located 5 miles north of Grand Junction on Buford Ellington Road. 901-878-1067 www.amesplantation.org.

 

October 12           Black Leaders of Blount County During Reconstruction

Location:               East Tennessee History Center, 601 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN

Brown Bag Lecture by University of Tennessee doctoral candidate Robert Glenn Slater. Each free program starts at Noon.

 

Oct. 14-16             Civil War Days and Battle of Franklin 147th Reenactment

Location:               Harlinsdale Park just north of downtown Franklin

The event will include reenactment of the Battle of Franklin, living history camps, food vendors and

sutlers.

 

October 14-16     Rogersville Heritage Association - Heritage Days - 32nd Anniversary Celebration-

Location:               415 South Depot Street, Rogersville, TN 37857

Rogersville's historic downtown plays host to east Tennessee's most enjoyable weekend. Join the fun with: Over 100 juried craft artists offering a wide variety of lovely hand-made items, Craft Demonstrations, Traditional Appalachian and Celtic music, Appalachian Dancers, Historic Re-enactors, Rod Run, Art & Photography Show, Quilt Show, Needlework Exhibit, Antique Farm Equipment Show, Young'uns, Yard and Children's Activities, Heritage Children's Train, Festival Food, Chili Cook-Off, Our charming local shops and restaurants. Visit the Historic Hale Springs Inn and McKinney's Fine Dinning Restaurant on Main Street. For reservations call 423-272-5171 or visit www.halepringsinn.com. For more information, call the Rogersville Heritage Association at 423.272.1961.

 

Oct. 15-16             Fortress Rosecrans Encampment

9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Visitors will get a chance to learn more about the Union occupation of Murfreesboro that followed the Battle of Stones River.

 

Oct. 15-16             Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education

 

Oct. 15-16             A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro - Guided Tour.

 

Oct. 15-16             Fortress Rosecrans Encampment

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Living history including camps and demonstrations.

 

 

 

October 22           Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

October 22           The 2011 Architectural Auction and Fundraiser

Location:                Sears Crosstown on Cleveland

Architectural elements from across the city will be auctioned during the event which is

MHI's largest fundraiser. Tickets will be limited.   Guests will receive great food, an open bar and entertainment, but also live and silent auctions that include rare and interesting architectural pieces of Memphis' history.   

901-272-2727 or info@memphisheritage.org

 

October 22           A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro - Guided Tour.

 

October 22           Seminar "Union vs. Disunion: East Tennessee Chooses Sides"

9:00 am - 3 pm

Location:               East Tennessee History Center, Knoxville, TN

Sponsored by East Tennessee Historical Society and Knoxville Civil War Roundtable, the seminar is $30 and includes lunch. Register at 865-215-8824 or eths@eastTNhistory.org. Sessions include "Tennessee's Winter and Spring of Discontent, 1860-1861" by Dr. Paul Bergeron; "The Unionist Movement in East Tennessee, 1860-1861: Confronting Secession" by Lincoln Memorial University Associate Professor of History Dr. Michael Toomey; "...A state of Rebellion: The Bridge Burning and Unionist Uprising" by historians Dorothy Kelly and Donahue Bible; and "Civil War Borderlands, Guerilla Warfare, and the Culture of Paranoia" by University of Virginia at Wise history professor Dr. Brian McKnight.

 

October 23           A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro - Guided Tour.

 

October 27           Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee -  The Virginia Civil War 150 Legacy Project. 

                                4:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Location:               Erwin Town Hall, 211 North Main Avenue, Erwin, TN

To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War (2011-2015), the Tennessee State Library and Archives will send teams of professional archivists and conservators to communities across Tennessee. You may schedule an appointment, and we will digitally copy and help you preserve your Civil War era manuscripts, artifacts, and photographs. Digital copies of these items, representing the rich Civil War heritage of Tennessee families, can become part of a virtual exhibit commemorating the 150th anniversary of the war in Tennessee. http://www.tn.gov/tsla/cwtn/events.htm

 

October 29           Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

9:00 am - 10:00 am

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Join a ranger for some exercise and education.

 

Oct. 29-30             A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro -Guided Tour.

 

 

 

 

Nov. - Dec.            Exhibit "Hoofbeats in the Heartland: Civil War Cavalry in Tennessee"

Location:               Historic Carnton Plantation, Franklin, TN

Presented by the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area, this traveling exhibit will be at Carnton in November and December of 2011. Tracing mounted warfare throughout Tennessee from 1861 to 1865, this exhibit explores the impact of war on the small communities as well as the large cities. Topics covered include military occupation, spies, guerillas, and highlights on major battles.

 

November 9          Bleeding Kansas by National Park Service Chief Historian Emeritus Ed Bearrs

Location:               East Tennessee History Center, 601 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN

Brown Bag Lecture.  Each free program starts at Noon.

 

Nov. 10-12            19th Annual Symposium on the 19th Century Press, the Civil War, and Free Expression

Location:               University of Chattanooga

Sponsored by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's Department of Communications.  The annual Symposium on the 19th Century Press, the Civil War, and Free Expression solicits papers dealing with U.S. mass media of the 19th century, the Civil War in fiction and history, images of race and gender in the 19th century press, presidents and the 19th century press, and sensationalism and crime in 19th century newspapers.  http://www.utc.edu/Academic/SymposiumOnThe19thCenturyPress/

 

November 12       Hands-On History: at Carnton 9:30-10:30am ($10)

Location:               Carnton Plantation, 1345 Carnton Lane, Franklin, TN 37064

147th Anniversary of the Battle of Franklin. Our annual Blue and Gray Days will be going on this weekend! There is so much to see and so many people to talk to like Abraham Lincoln, soldiers, and more. We will talk with reenactors and learn what was important about the battle that happened in Franklin. Hands-on History is for children 5-10 yrs and reservations are required!

 

November 12-14 Blue and Gray Days and Illumination

Location: Carnton Plantation, 1345 Carnton Lane, Franklin, TN 37064

Experience Civil War history like never before! Blue and Gray Days, which is presented by Tennessee Commerce Bank, will take place at both The Carter House and Carnton Plantation where you can talk with re-enactors, shop period vendors, hear slave spirituals, and visit Abraham Lincoln!  Friday November 14 will be reserved for school children on field trips from 9am-1pm. Join us on Saturday, November 12 from 9am-5pm and on Sunday, November 13 from 10am-5pm for house tours and to walk the grounds to experience Civil War soldier life. For more information or field trip reservations contact Tara Danley at tara@battleoffranklintrust.org.

 

Nov. 11-13            Fee Free Weekend

Location:               Shiloh Battlefield, Hardin County

In honor of Veteran's Day, no fees will be charged 731-689-5696.

 

November 16       Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee

Location:               Athens, TN

 

Nov. 19-20            Harvest Celebration & Militia Muster at Fort Watauga

 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Location:               1651 West Elk Avenue, Elizabethton, TN 37643 - 423-543-5808

It's a jollification! The Washington County Militia musters its troops for good times and good cheer! Re-enactors in period dress provide demonstrations of old-time skills and scenes from daily life in America's colonial past.

 

Nov. 19-20            Living history, "Blue and Gray Days"

Location:               Carnton Plantation and the Carter House in Franklin.

Camps, demonstrations and tours 9 am-5 pm both days. Saturday night illumination at Carnton.  www.battleoffranklintrust.org.

 

November 30       Living history, "Battle of Franklin Commemoration"

Location:               Carter House, Franklin, TN

Living history event on the anniversary at the Carter House in Franklin. www.battleoffranklintrust.org

 

November 30       Commemoration Ceremony, Civil War Battle of Franklin

Community members, Civil War enthusiasts, and costumed re-enactors gather at The Carter House near the end of the day for a somber moment of remembrance.

 

Mid - December   Salem Battlefield Annual Dedication

Location:               On the site on Cotton Grove Road, Salem, TN

Held mid-December each year, Salem Battlefield Assn. holds a dedication ceremony on the site on Cotton Grove Road where on the morning of Dec. 19, 1862, approx. 1,500 Confederate Calvary along with Freeman's Battery with three pieces of artillery under the command of Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, clashed in a 2 hour battle with about 1000 Federals under the command of Col. Adolph Englemann.

 

Dec. 3-4                                 Mike Kent Civil War Show and Sale

Location:               Williamson County Ag Center, Franklin

Nation's largest Civil War show with over 1000 tables of Civil War items displayed and for sale; $8 for adults; see www.mkshows.com.

 

December 5          Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee

                                10:30 am - 2:30 pm

Location:               McKenzie, Tennessee

Participation in Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee is open to all individuals who are interested in preserving Tennessee's Civil War history through the digitization of historic materials.

http://www.tm.gov/tsla/cwtn/events.htm

 

December 10        Living history, "Remembering the Battle of the Cedars"

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield
Camps and demonstrations at the Stones River National Battlefield in Murfreesboro. www.nps.gov/stri.

 

Dec. 10-11            The Carter House Candlelight Tour

Location:               Carter House, Franklin, TN

This holiday-themed event awakens the holiday spirit while showcasing historic Franklin homes and properties and benefits the Battle of Franklin Trust.

 

Dec. 10 - Jan. 2.   Anniversary Activities - Stones River

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield, Murfreesboro

Includes special talks, tours and living history.

 

December 17       Hands-On History at Carnton

9:30 am - 10:30 am ($15)

Location:               Historic Carnton Plantation, Franklin, TN

Christmas in Carrie's Attic. Christmas in the 1860s wasn't quite what it is today so we will learn what traditions were practiced then and read The Night Before Christmas. Once in Carrie's attic we will make Victorian Christmas decorations. Hands-on History is for children 5-10 yrs and reservations are required!

 

2012 Civil War related events planned in communities across Tennessee include: 

 

Feb. 11, 2012       Special Author Visit by Kendall Gott

1:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield

Special author visit by historian of the Fort Henry/ Fort Donelson campaign.

 

February 13          Commemoration of the Skirmish Between the USS Carondelet and the Batteries at Fort Donelson

                                3:30 pm

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield

3:30 PM - Remembering the 150th anniversary of the prelude to the big battle on the river.

 

February 14          Commemoration of the Naval Battle at Fort Donelson

2:00 pm

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield

Commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the great battle of February 14th, 1862.

 

February 15          150th Anniversary of the Confederate Attempt to Escape Fort Donelson

10:00 am

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield

Commemorating the Confederate Attempt to create an escape route towards Nashville.

 

February 15          Commemoration of Grant's Retaking of the Union Right on February 15, 1862

1:00 pm

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield -Meet a Ranger to discuss the changing of the tide on the afternoon of February 15, 1862.

 

February 16          Commemoration of the Surrender of Fort Donelson

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Location:               Fort Donelson National Battlefield

150th Anniversary of the Surrender of Fort Donelson.

 

March 29 -

April 1                    150th Anniversary:  The Battle of Shiloh National Reenactment

Location:               Shiloh, Tennessee (location right across from Shiloh National Military Park)

Sponsored by The Blue Gray Alliance.  Civil War living history / reenactment event.

 

March 30 - April 1 

150th Anniversary Battle of Shiloh

Location:               Battlefield Park, Highway 57 Hardin County, approximately six miles south of Shiloh National
                                Military Park, in the Southside community.

Sponsored by AOT / AOTT Headquarters, General Tom Doss, Commanding.  The Armies of Tennessee will host of the 150th Anniversary Battle of Shiloh, a national living history event to take place on March 30th-April 1st, 2012 at the same location of the highly successful 140th & 145th Anniversary Battles of Shiloh. The main goal of the Armies of Tennessee is to educate and preserve heritage. A school day is set for Friday, March 30th, 2012 so that schools in the surrounding area can experience history coming to life.

 

October 26-27     Legacy of Stones River Symposium - The Battle of Stones River: 150 Years Later

Location:               Stones River National Battlefield and Rutherford County Courthouse, Murfreesboro, TN

150 years after the Civil War, history buffs, students, and teachers are invited to learn more about this pivotal but underappreciated battle that took place outside of Murfreesboro, TN, in 1862.  The symposium will include talks that highlight the significance of the battle, period music and dramatizations, lunch, and activities at the battlefield. 615-893-9501, http://www.nps.gov/stri/planyourvisit/legacymain.htm

 

Civil War Camp at the Carter Mansion

Dates and times to be announced.

Location:               1651 West Elk Avenue, Elizabethton, TN 37643 - 423-543-5808

Step back to the 1860s when East Tennessee was a hotbed of activity during the War Between the States! Visit a Confederate camp and witness Life as it was 150 years ago. Experience the Roar of the Cannon, the Rattle of Muskets, the Smell of the Cook's Fire, & the Melodies of Camp!

 

Fort Negley Parks and Recreation Historic Properties - Gateway to Nashville's Civil War Past

Hours of Operation

June-August

Tuesday - Thursday: noon - 4 pm - Friday and Saturday: 9 am - 4 pm and by appointment

615-862-8470 - Closed Sunday and Monday

Fort Negley Park - Open daily dawn to dusk for self-guided walking tours