Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park |
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Recreated artillery position on Kennesaw Mountain
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 Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
Location in the United States
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| Location | Cobb County, Georgia, USA |
| Nearest city | Marietta, GA |
| Area | 2,913.63 acres (11.7910 km2) |
| Established | February 18, 1917 |
| Visitors | 1,005,510 (in 2005) |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park |
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Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
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| Nearest city | Marietta, Georgia |
| Area | 2,923 acres (1,182.9 ha) |
| Built | 1933 |
| Architect | Peter Valentine Kolb |
| Architectural style | Federal, Moderne |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000063 |
| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a special place in Georgia, USA. It protects a historic battleground from the American Civil War. The park also includes Kennesaw Mountain itself. You can find it near the cities of Marietta and Kennesaw, Georgia. The name "Kennesaw" comes from a Cherokee Indian word meaning "cemetery" or burial ground. This important area became a U.S. historic district on October 15, 1966.
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The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain
A major battle of the American Civil War happened here. It was part of the Atlanta Campaign. The battle took place between June 18 and July 2, 1864. Two famous generals led their armies: General William Tecumseh Sherman for the Union and General Joseph E. Johnston for the Confederate army.
Armies and Strategy
General Sherman had a very large army of 100,000 soldiers. They also had 254 cannons and 35,000 horses. General Johnston's Confederate army was smaller, with 50,000 soldiers and 187 cannons. Johnston had been very good at stopping Sherman's army with strong defenses. This time, Sherman decided to try a direct attack.
Key Battle Locations
Most of the fighting did not happen on Kennesaw Mountain itself. Instead, it took place on a smaller hill called Pigeon Hill. This area is part of Little Kennesaw Mountain. Another important battle spot was to the south, around a place called Cheatham Hill.
Battle Outcome
Sadly, 5,350 soldiers lost their lives during this battle. The Confederates considered it a victory because they held their ground. However, General Johnston's army still moved back after the fighting.
Kennesaw Mountain Park History
The park was first created on February 18, 1917. It was called the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Site. Later, in 1933, it became part of the National Park Service. On June 26, 1935, it was officially named a national military park. Like other important historic places managed by the National Park Service, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
What You Can See at the Park
Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield Park covers about 2,923 acres. It protects the Civil War battleground from the Atlanta Campaign. There are three main areas where battles happened. You can find one near the Visitor Center. Another is off Burnt Hickory Road. The biggest site is at Cheatham Hill, also known as the Dead Angle.
Kolb's Farm House
At the southern part of the park, you can see Peter Valentine Kolb's farm house. A smaller battle was fought here. The house has been restored to look like it did during the war.
Visitor Center and Trails
The Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit. It has an information desk and a museum. You can also watch movies about the battle. The park has 17.3 miles of hiking trails. As you walk, you can see old earthworks and cannon spots. There are also signs that explain the history.
Monuments and Mountain Views
You will find three monuments in the park. They honor soldiers from Illinois, Texas, and Georgia. Kennesaw Mountain itself is 1,808 feet above sea level. The hike from the Visitor Center to the top is about 1.4 miles on the road. It is about 1.1 miles if you take the trail. You gain about 664 feet in height on the way up.
Protecting Kennesaw Mountain
The U.S. War Department first decided to protect Kennesaw Mountain in 1917. In 1933, it became part of the National Park System. The park's 2,923 acres include where some of the fiercest fighting of the Civil War happened. This battlefield was set aside to inspire people and teach them about these important historical events.
Challenges for the Park
The area around the park has grown a lot, with many new buildings and people. This growth means the park needs careful protection. It is important to make sure the park is not damaged by too much use. The National Park Service works hard to keep this historic place safe for everyone.
