March to the Past

On Sunday, April 20, from 1 p.m. -5 p.m. you'll have a chance to step back into Clarksville's past! In partnership with The Friends of Ft. Defiance.

March to the Past is an opportunity to step back into the time of the Civil War and learn how soldiers and civilians lived during that time. Reenactors in period clothing will demonstrate marching, firing muskets, preparing food when in camp, women's household skills, what the properly dressed woman wore, and social customs of the period.

Preserving a piece of history and educating the public about Clarksville,Tennessee’s role in the Civil War…FT. DEFIANCE ......

In November 1861, Confederate troops began to build a defensive fort that would control the river approach to Clarksville. They mounted three guns in the fort. On February 19, 1862, Federal gunboats came up the river from Fort Donelson and reported the fort displayed a white flag and was deserted. The Federals took over the fort and enlarged it so that it would control traffic on the Hopkinsville Pike. Clarksville was left with a small garrison of Union Troops. In April 1862, this small garrison was made up of the 71st Ohio Volunteers commanded by Col. Rodney Mason.

During July and August 1862, there was an increase in guerrilla activity around Clarksville. On August 18, 1862, Clarksville was recapturered by Confederate Calvary. Col. Mason was chashiered for surrendering Clarksville so easily. Union soldiers were sent from Fort Donelson to retake Clarksville in Spetember 1862. Skirmishes were fought at New Providence on Spetember 6, 1862 and at Riggins Hill on September 7, 1862. The town and fort were reoccupied by Federal troops who remained for the rest of the war. Col. Bruce was placed in command at Clarksville and Fort Defiance was renamed Fot Bruce.

At one point in time, Fort Defiance was also referred to as Fort Severe.

Free tours of the Fort are also available during this time.

Fort Defiance is located at 120 A Street, Clarksville, Tennessee. For directions to the fort, see Mapquest.

For additional questions, contact: Phyllis Smith or call 615-516-5627.