On this day 150 years ago, the Atlanta Campaign began with its first battle at Tunnel Hill. Elements of General Sherman’s massive Army of the Cumberland were pushing through the area toward Mill Creek Gap. Along the way they were taking control of key railroad points and the railroad tunnel at Tunnel Hill was a key strategic point. The Federals easily routed the small contingent of Wheeler’s Cavalry that was stationed at Tunnel Hill. When Sherman arrived on scene, he took over the Clisby-Austin house as his Headquarters for several day’s. He began the early planning of the March to the Sea here.
Earlier today I was able to photograph the Clisby-Austin House inside and out. It was really cool to walk where General Sherman walked 150 years ago to the day. I was there so early that I was the only person there and had the whole place to my self. Here is a list of all the locations that I made images at today.
1. Tunnel Hill Heritage Center: Here I made images at Key’s Battery, The Clisby-Austin House, the railroad tunnel and the battlefield.
2. Dug Gap: I made images here yesterday as well, but today I made images from Mill Creek Valley, below the gap, near the Federal position during the battle. This was called the Babb’s community.
3. The bronze statue of General Johnston in downtown Dalton.
4. Mill Creek Gap: Today I made images of I-75, US 41, and the Railroad as they pass through the gap.
5. Ringold: I made images of the train Depot and the railroad tracks.
6. Atlanta Campaign Pavilion number 1 at Ringold Gap.
7. The Old Stone Church: About three miles south of Ringold Gap. It was used as a hospital by both side at different times throughout the war.
8. Atlanta Campaign pavilion number 2.
9. Tilton: I made a few images of the railroad here and of some of the terrain. As the Confederate Army retreated from Dalton, a rearguard action was fought here to slow down the Federal advance and protect the Confederate supply train.
10. Atlanta Campaign pavilion number 3.
11. Resaca: I did not make any images here today, but I did scout a few more locations, including Fort Wayne, that I plan on photographing next week. I also drove by the area where the reenactment will be during the weekend of the 17th. Looks like they have already started making preparations for the event. It should be the largest they have ever had at Resaca and probably the largest in the state this year. I am looking forward to attending. It is really cool to have the reenactment on part of the actual battlefield. For more information checkout their website here: Resaca Reenactment
War Was Here 