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Michael has a BA in History & American Studies and an MSc in American History from the University of Edinburgh. He comes from a proud military family and has spent most of his career as an educator in the Middle East and Asia. His passion is travel, and he seizes any opportunity to share his experiences in the most immersive way possible, whether at sea or on the land.

Part of our in-depth series exploring Southern Early American Forts

Picture of Cannons at Fort Pillow State Park
Fort Pillow State Historical Park
3122 Park Road
Henning , TN 38041
Phone: 731-738-5581 or 731-738-5731
Fax: 731-738-9117
Recreational Opportunities

* Camping
* Group Camping
* Picnic Facilities
* Boating
* Fishing
* Historic Park

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.

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.

Museum

The park Interpretive Center/Museum is open from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily and year round with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. There is no entrance fee. Visitors will find displays of Civil War artifacts and interpretive displays. There is a 12 minute video on the 1864 Battle shown by request. Tours of the museum and restored fortifications are available upon request.

Programs

Most of the interpretive programs at the park are devloped 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 or upon request.

Programs Available

Civil War Battle of Fort Pillow (12 minute video)
Haversack: Soldiers Life & Talk
Weapons of the Civil War
Construction of Fortifications
Owl Prowls (seasonal)
Nature Walks (seasonal)
Living History Encampment (seasonal)
Cannon Firing (seasonal)
Junior Ranger
Special Events

Other Activities

Playgrounds
Volleyball
Horseshoes
Softball
Equipment for horseshoes and volleyball may be checked out at no charge through the park museum.

Hours of Operation

Park open 8 a.m. - Sunset (year round)

Tour Buses

Tour buses are welcome. Please call in advance to book tours. (731) 738-5581

Communities and Related Links
Memphis
Memphis Chamber of Commerce
Memphis Visitors' Page

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