North Carolina has an impressive amount of historical landmarks. There were some notable battles that took place just 45 miles from our house. Not only that, but the buildings and markers are still standing and well maintained! With re-enactments! Next weekend (between painting and babies) we're going to the Bentonville Battlefield.
At one time I was obsessed with all things Civil War. I even took classes on it in high school. I've never been to a battlefield though, well, not a significant battlefield. Fort Concho in San Angelo was a neat post-Civil War military installation. I'm literally itching to go today, but it hasn't been a good morning for the little ones. Good days and bad days :) Plus, its only open on some Sundays, at the will of the curator. I called earlier and there was no answer, so I'm guessing its not open today.
General Sherman's March to the Sea campaign brought him through the NC in March of 1965. On March 19, 1965 Sherman met Confederate General Joe Johnston at the Battle of Bentonville. For 2 days the battle raged. It was a Union victory. The unfortunated Harper family lived on the site and their home was comandeered as the field hospital. They didn't leave as the battle played out. They lived on the second floor of the home while the first floor served as the field hospital. Today, this house is a museum. The home is furnished as it was during the battle.
Harper House
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Eighty thousand soldiers came here to fight. That's a staggering number. The casualties were low (relatively speaking) at 4200. Something about being in a place where such a significant exchange happened, is humbling. I believe the term hallowed ground is appropriate.
There are a lot of links (to offer more in depth info) in there, be sure to hover and click if you're interested!
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