Civil War Trails Program facts for kids

The Civil War Trails Program is a special project that helps people explore important places from the American Civil War. It's like a big, multi-state map or guide that connects different historical sites. The main goal is to encourage people to visit these places and learn about history firsthand.

In recent years, especially around the 150th anniversary (called the sesquicentennial) of the Civil War, efforts have grown to make more sites easier to find. This includes adding special "trailblazer signs" at over 1,000 places that weren't well-known before. These signs help visitors find hidden historical gems in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, and West Virginia. Tennessee also joined the program in 2008.

Exploring the Trails: Which States Are Involved?

The Civil War Trails Program helps you discover history in several states. Each state has its own special focus, highlighting important events that happened there during the war.

North Carolina's Civil War Journey

The North Carolina part of the Civil War Trails Program has more than 700 historical spots! It officially started on March 14, 2005, at the Bentonville Battlefield. A big part of this program focuses on a driving tour of key places from the 1865 Carolinas Campaign. This was a series of battles that ended with the important Battle of Bentonville. The trails also cover other significant events, like the Burnside Expedition and Foster's Raid.

Tennessee Joins the Trails

Tennessee became part of the Civil War Trails Program in 2008. Since then, people and groups in Tennessee have been encouraged to suggest new historical sites to add to the statewide map. To be included, a suggested location needs to be very close to where the actual Civil War event happened. It also must have enough parking for at least three cars and a bus, making it easy for visitors to stop and explore.