The Civil War was a bitter, hard time for Americans. Thousands of lives were lost on both the Union and Confederate sides. The loss was tragic and it took the United States generations to recover.

Brice’s Cross Roads National Battlefield Site

This battle took place on June 10, 1864. The location is Mississippi. The objective – to keep General Nathan Bedford Forest of the Confederacy from interfering with General Sherman’s railroad lines carrying supplies. The casualties were heavy for the Union side during the battle. They lost three men for every one the South lost. General Forrest triumphed, managing to capture guns, wagons full of supplies and much needed ammunition. Visitors can tour this battlefield today. It is located on MS Hwy 370 six miles west of Baldwyn, MS.

Battle of Bentonville

This battle took place March 19-21, 1865. The location was North Carolina. It was the largest battle ever fought in this state. The objective – to defeat General Sherman’s army as it marched across the Carolinas. This was the last full scale tactical offense the South was able to launch. General Johnston, who was called out of retirement, tried his best to stop Sherman’s troops, but the call had come too late. Today a visitor’s center, exhibits and picnic tables allow visitors to relive history. The Harper House is there is an example of a Civil War field hospital.

Manassas National Battlefield Park

Several major battles were fought on this notable battlefield in Virginia. The First Manassas Battle was fought on July 21, 1861 and the Second Manassas Battle, also known as the Battle of Bull Run, was fought August 28-30, 1862. The first battle was where the Confederate General Thomas. J. Jackson received his famous nickname “Stonewall.”

The park is a wonderful tribute to the men who fought and died in these two major battles. There are two museums, a visitor’s center, educational programs and walking tours are available. There is a small fee to enter the park, but kids 16 and under are free.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield park

There were several brief battles fought on this battlefield from June 18, 1864 until July 2, 1864. Kennesaw Mountain is located just outside Atlanta, Georgia. Confederates attempted to defeat Union brigades by firing heavily upon them and rolling large stones down the hills. The battles were bloody. Visitors can explore the battlefield on their own or take a tour.