The Civil War and the Music Highway

Today's trip started out in Jackson, Tennessee.  Upon leaving my motel this morning, I stopped to take a look over some of the sights to see along the way on the map.  The first thing I noticed was that I was already in an area known for a Civil War battle.  I needed to find out more.

I stopped in at the Visitor's Center, for what is known as the Battle of Parker's Crossroads.  I had never heard of this battle.  Little did I know that history was surrounding me.  (Some of the pictures posted here are somewhat blurry due to the ice still on the glass from the early morning cold. )

In the early morning during December 1862, the Confederate troops were close to taking over the Union near the Tennessee River (in an area which I-40 now runs through).  Confederate troops gained an early advantage, but not too soon after, the Union surprised the troops by attacking from the rear.  The Confederates then attempted to attack the Union from the front and the rear, without success, and eventually withdrew south.  After the battle, the Confederates moved across the river anyway, and it was considered a victory for both sides.

Today, there are only about 350 acres that have been saved, however, it is feared that commercial development could hinder the preservation of the battle field.  Metal detecting is not allowed on the battlegrounds, where most of the Confederate artillery was found.  The tour can be self-guided, which is what I did.  There are maps at the Visitor's center, and I just followed the battle by finding the markers located throughout the area.  A simple stop off the highway is all one would need to find out about the history.  A history which I never even knew about.  I do hope this land will be preserved for generations to come, as it was a very important battle that was an early part of the history of our country.

Moving on from there, I drove to Nashville, to stop in and see a friend who lives there.  I was hoping to make it to his place last night, but I just couldn't pay attention to the road.  I was only able to visit for about 45 minutes and then had to head out again, to make up some time on the road.  I drove and drove and drove, until I reached Wytheville, Virginia.  Once again, the driving took a toll and I had to stop for the night.

Tomorrow, I will be 592 miles out from where I live.  I will probably make one more stop along the way to see a sight, and then it's onward to home.  Now, time to unwind and sleep.

Ramble on down the road....