During the American Civil War, Tennessee saw the second most fighting of any state. One of the biggest conflicts was the Franklin-Nashville campaign, which saw many significant battles between Union and Confederate soldiers across Alabama, Tennessee and Northwest Georgia. There are many powerful memorials and historical sites serving to educate and reflect on the region’s Civil War history, some of which can be found in the city of Spring Hill.
On November 29, 1864, the Confederate army converged on Spring Hill, and Union General John M. Schofield reinforced his troops in preparation. The Battle of Spring Hill ensued, though Gen. Schofield’s troops were able to advance in secret during the night. The result was a Union victory, with the battle serving as a prelude to a major turning point in the war, the Battle of Franklin.
Civil War history can be found across Spring Hill in preserved historical sites. To learn more about Spring Hill’s role in the conflict, we’ve rounded up four sites to visit.
Spring Hill Battlefield
Located near Kedron Road and Reserve Boulevard, the Spring Hill Battlefield is a preserved historical site open to visitors. Whether you prefer to tour through a drive or on foot via walking trails, there are a number of interpretive markers stationed throughout that tell the complete story of the Battle of Spring Hill.
The markers indicate specific vantage points and noteworthy sites from the battle, information and history surrounding those enslaved in the area, the location of General Hood’s command post, and more.
Rippa Villa Plantation
The historic Rippa Villa Plantation features a Greek Revival-style home standing at its center, built in the mid-1850s by one of the wealthiest families in the region. The property was the site of conflict during the Battle of Spring Hill, and the home was used as a field hospital to treat wounded soldiers.
Today, the property is owned by the City of Spring Hill and maintained by the Battle of Franklin Trust, offering tours ranging from a classic house tour to an extended property or behind-the-scenes tour, and a specific option dedicated to exploring the history of slavery and, specifically, those who were enslaved onsite.
Spring Hill Cemetery
The Spring Hill Cemetery has been in operation since 1840, serving as the final resting place for both Union and Confederate soldiers who fought during the Civil War. In addition to soldiers, the cemetery also holds the prominent McKissack and Cheairs families, the latter of which owned Rippa Villa Plantation. Today, visitors can pay their respects and explore the history of those laid to rest within.
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