Welcome to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, a historic landmark that marks the site of two pivotal battles in the American Civil War. Established by Congress in 1890, it was the first designated national military park in the United States, a testament to the significance of these battlegrounds in shaping American history.
The park spans across northern Georgia and southeastern Tennessee, preserving the sites of the Battle of Chickamauga, fought in September 1863, and the subsequent Siege of Chattanooga. These battles were crucial in the Union’s quest to control the vital rail hub of Chattanooga, a strategic point for movement and supplies during the war.
The Battle of Chickamauga was the second bloodiest battle of the Civil War, only surpassed by Gettysburg. It resulted in a Confederate victory under General Braxton Bragg, who managed to push back Union forces led by General William Rosecrans. However, despite their success at Chickamauga, the Confederates were unable to capitalize fully on their victory.
The Siege of Chattanooga followed, where Union forces, reinforced and commanded by General Ulysses S. Grant, broke the Confederate hold over the city in November 1863. This victory was a strategic turning point, opening the gateway to the Deep South for the Union army.
The park owes much of its existence to the efforts of Generals Henry V. Boynton and Ferdinand Van Derveer, Union veterans who advocated for the preservation of these historic sites. Their vision was realized with the park’s dedication in 1895, setting a precedent for the preservation of military history in the United States.
Today, visitors can explore this vast park that includes historical markers, monuments, and the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center. The center offers an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that bring the stories of these battles to life. Notably, the self-guided auto tour allows visitors to traverse the battlefield and reflect on the significant events that unfolded here.
As you walk these hallowed grounds, consider the soldiers who fought bravely and the strategic maneuvers that defined these battles. The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park stands as a living memorial to the sacrifices made and the enduring legacy of the Civil War.
