The 1,642 acre Fort Pillow, located in Lauderdale County on the Chickasaw Bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, is rich in both historic and archaeological significance. In 1861, the Confederate Army built extensive fortifications here and named the site for General Gideon J. Pillow of Maury County. Because of its strategic location, the fort was taken by the Union Army who controlled it during most of the war. Remains of the earthworks are well-preserved.
The park interpretive Center/Museum is open from 8:00am to 4:00pm daily and year round with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. There is no entrance fee. There is a 12 minute video on the 1864 Battle shown by request. Tours of the museum and restored fortifications are available upon request as well.
Most of the interpretive programs at the park are developed to enhance the understanding of the American Civil War as it relates to the occupation of both Confederate and Union forces at Fort Pillow. Nature and recreational programs are presented during the summer months upon request. Programs available: Civil War Battle of Fort Pillow (12 minute video); Haversack: Soldiers Life and Talk; Weapons of the Civil War; Construction of Fortifications; Owl Prowls (seasonal); Nature Walks (seasonal); Living History Encampment (seasonal); Canon Firing (seasonal); and Junior Ranger.
Directions: Turn west off of I-40, Exit 66 onto US 70. In Brownsville, turn right on State Highway 19. Follow Highway 19 into Ripley to State Highway 51. Turn South on Hwy 51 to Henning, turn west onto Highway 87. Turn right on State Highway 207 East onto Park Road. For specific directions, see http://www.mapquest.com
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This site was last updated 07/17/07.