Dover, Tenn.–This coming weekend marks the 160th anniversary of the advance by the Union Army, under the Command of Brigadier General Ulysses Grant, and the partnered Mississippi River Squadron of gunboats, commanded by Flag Officer Andrew Foote, of the February 5 approach upon and February 6 battle for Confederate Forts Henry and Heiman.
Fort Donelson will be hosting two programs in observance of the engagement that not only was the first victory of the Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson Campaign, but opened up the vital Tennessee River deep into the Confederate heartland.
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Saturday, Feb. 5 2:00 PM “The Forgotten Fort” – Fort Heiman, Kentucky
Location: Education Pavilion, 682 Fort Heiman Road, New Concord, KY
Gather at the remote Fort Heiman Unit for a hike to the little known, but impressive Confederate fortifications that were constructed high above the Tennessee River to protect flood-prone Fort Henry and learn why it failed.
Meet the park rangers at the Education Pavilion. The total hike is approximately eight-tenths of a mile on mostly gravel or rough surfaces. All participants are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the adventure.
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Sunday, Feb 6
2:00 PM
The Battle of Fort Henry, February 6, 1862
(RESERVATIONS REQUIRED)
Location: Program at Sykes Museum/Stewart County Historical Society, 178 Cedar St., Dover, TN
On the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Fort Henry, join Historian Susan “Ski” Witzofsky and Fort Donelson staff for a discussion on the first battle for Union control of the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers – the result proving a serous blow deep into the heart of the Confederacy.
Participation is limited and requires reservations
by calling 931-232-5706 ext. 0.
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NOTE: Safety always the priority, in the event of inclement weather there is the potential that scheduled programs may be cancelled or times adjusted. It is encouraged that before leaving for park events, the public look at the Fort Donelson web and social media pages for any updates: Fort Donelson Web – https://www.nps.gov/fodo/ or the Fort Donelson on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pg/fortdonelsonnps/
Information as to event status will be available online, or by contacting the Ranger office at 931-232-0576 ext. 0.
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Photo – The painting, “View from Fort Heiman,” by artist Andy Thomas, depicts the Battle of Fort Henry, as viewed from its sister defenses of Fort Heiman, located high atop a bluff across the Tennessee River. Ironclad gunboats of the Union flotilla are shown exchanging artillery fire with the large guns of Confederate Fort Henry.
NPS / © ANDY THOMAS