“An Indiscriminate Slaughter”

Date: March 28, 2014
Contact: Kim Coons, 423-752-5213 x139

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park invites the public to participate in a free, 1-hour ranger-led program focusing on Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest's role during the Battle of Fort Pillow, 150 years ago. On Saturday, April 5, 2014, at 1:30 pm, visitors are asked to meet at the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center. From there, they will caravan to the site of Jay's Mill, where Forrest's men fought during the Battle of Chickamauga.  

On April 12, 1864, Confederate cavalrymen led by Forrest attacked Union troops stationed inside Fort Pillow along the banks of the Mississippi River. Defending the fort were not only white troops but members of the United States Colored Artillery, African-Americans now poised to fight for the freedom of all those remaining in bondage throughout the South. We encourage you to come learn about what actually occurred during the Battle of Fort Pillow and the similarities displayed by Forrest seven months earlier at Jay's Mill.   

 Visitors are encouraged to bring portable chairs for this program.