When we left Memphis, we headed northeast to a small town called, Savannah. We stayed at a nice little RV park (review will be done later!) that was really close to Shiloh National Battlefield.
This battlefield has so many artifacts, and historical facts about the Civil War. It was so organized, and the National Park system did a great job preserving the area and arranging the tour.
There are over 250 cannons at this battlefield, many of them, in their original settings.
Of course, the dress-up area was a 'hit!' :)
Ummm, Parker, I think it is a little too big for you.......maybe a couple more years?
Here is the actual Shiloh Church that the battle was named. It is such a humble little place, with a wood stove, small pulpit, and benches lined up inside. General Grant's (union) and General Johnston's (confederate) soldiers found themselves right at this very spot, many times, through out the battle.
The tour of the battlefield was actually 10 miles long, and was ironically, a beautiful place. They have placed monuments, tombstones and memorials through out the acreage, noting where certain men died or where points of significance were accounted for. There was also a movie in the visitor center that we watched before the tour, and it was extremely informative. I definitely recommend that you watch the movie first, before driving the battlefield tour.
Afterwards, we stopped for a quick picnic in the truck and walked the National Cemetery. There are roughly 3500 soldiers buried here, but it is worthy to note, that over 23,000 men died from the battle at Shiloh. It is known as one of the most horrific battle grounds on American soil, with the most casualties. This battle was also significant for the north, as the union conquered all the western states and the south, from this point. They started gaining ground and the south was getting worn down.
Two-thirds of the 3500 tombstones, do not have names. It was such a solemn moment. I kept thinking how each one of these, is someone's son, brother, father, uncle, friend or neighbor.
Many, just had a number.
Shiloh made an impact on my kids. I am thankful for the opportunity to learn alongside them, and experience history in such an awesome way.
It is times like these, when the Civil War is brought to life. It is so easy to read a book, or hear others talk about the war, but to visit the grounds and walk the cemetery, reading the names of the brave soldiers who gave their lives for what they believed in, my heart is overwhelmed.
Way to go Jr Rangers!
Blessings,
Steph
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