As you stand before the Monument to Captain William Carnes Tennessee Battery in Ringgold, Georgia, USA, within the Chickamauga Battlefield National Park, allow yourself to be transported back in time to September 19, 1863. This monument was erected by the State of Tennessee in 1900 as a tribute to Captain William W. Carnes and his Confederate artillery battery that played a crucial role during one of the bloodiest battles of the American Civil War - the Battle of Chickamauga.

The battery, part of Wrights Brigade, Cheathams Division, Polks Corps, was initially called Jacksons-Carnes-Marshalls Battery [also known as The Steuben Artillery] and was mustered into Confederate service at New Madrid, Missouri in August 1861. Captain William Carnes led this formidable unit with distinction during the Battle of Chickamauga.

Imagine the thunderous roar of cannon fire and the cries of wounded soldiers echoing through the valley as you gaze upon the two 6-pounder guns and two 12-pounder howitzers that stand guard before you. These weapons were instrumental in the batterys success on the battlefield, allowing it to hold a strategic enfilade position that proved advantageous for Confederate forces during the engagement.

As you listen to the wind rustling through the trees and the distant chirping of birds, try to envision the scene that unfolded here nearly 160 years ago - a battle that forever changed the lives of those who fought and survived it. The Monument to Captain William Carnes Tennessee Battery serves not only as a testament to their bravery but also as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during one of the darkest chapters in American history.

Allow yourself to be captivated by this historically significant monument and the stories it tells about the courageous souls who fought for what they believed in at Chickamauga Battlefield National Park.