Ringgold Gap Battlefield facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Ringgold Gap Battlefield
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New York monument at site
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 Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Location in the United States
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| Location | White Oak Mountain, E of Ringgold and N of I75, and the NE face of Taylor Ridge S of I75, Ringgold, Georgia |
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| Area | 110 acres (45 ha) |
| MPS | Chickamauga-Chattanooga Civil War-Related Sites in Georgia and Tennessee MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 11000079 |
| Added to NRHP | March 12, 2011 |
The Ringgold Gap Battlefield is a special place in Catoosa County, Georgia. It helps us remember an important battle from the American Civil War. This battle was called the Battle of Ringgold Gap.
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What Happened at Ringgold Gap?
The Battle of Ringgold Gap took place in November 1863. It was a key moment in the Civil War. The battle happened in a narrow pass. This pass was between two mountains: White Oak Mountain and Taylor Ridge.
A Clever Plan
During the battle, a Confederate general named Patrick Cleburne led his soldiers. He was part of the Army of Tennessee. General Cleburne had a very smart plan. He hid his troops well. They waited until the Union soldiers were very close, about 100 yards away. Then, they opened fire.
Stopping the Union Army
This surprise attack worked very well. General Cleburne's forces stopped the Union Army from moving forward into Georgia. This battle was important because it slowed down the Union troops. It kept them from reaching Atlanta, which was a major Confederate city.
A Hero's Name
Because of his clever tactics, General Cleburne became famous. People started calling him the "Stonewall of the West." This nickname showed how strong and unmoving he was in battle. The fight at Ringgold Gap caused many soldiers to be hurt or lost on both sides.
Remembering the Battle
Today, the Ringgold Gap Battlefield helps us learn about this history. It has several ways to remember the brave soldiers.
Monuments and Parks
There is a monument built in 1898 by the state of New York. It honors the soldiers from the New York Brigade who fought there. You can find it near Tiger Creek. There is also a small park called Ringgold Gap Wayside Park. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) started building this park in 1939. The National Park Service finished it.
Honoring Leaders
Inside the small pocket park, you'll find a new monument. It honors Major General Patrick Cleburne and his soldiers. It helps visitors remember their courage.
Historical Buildings
Close by, the old Western and Atlantic Depot still stands. You can even see marks on it from the artillery fire during the battle. These marks are a reminder of the intense fighting that happened here.
Battlefield Recognition
The Ringgold Gap Battlefield is a very important historical site. It was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on March 12, 2011. This means it is officially recognized for its historical value.
