Shiloh National Military Park

Shiloh National Military Park preserves the American Civil War battlefields of Shiloh and Corinth.

Shiloh, Tennessee was the site of one of the first major Civil War battles in the West in April 1862. There were more than 23,000 casualties between the Union and Confederate forces.

The Corinth Battlefield Unit is part of the park and contains 14 historic sites that played a part in the siege, battle and occupation of Corinth, Mississippi.

Where is Shiloh?

Shiloh is a historic site located in southwestern Tennessee, in the United States. Specifically, it’s in Hardin County, near the small town of Shiloh. The Shiloh National Military Park preserves the site of the Battle of Shiloh, one of the major early engagements in the American Civil War.

The park is situated along the Tennessee River, making it an accessible destination for those interested in Civil War history and scenic beauty. It’s approximately:

110 miles east of Memphis, Tennessee

150 miles southwest of Nashville, Tennessee

45 miles southwest of Jackson, Tennessee

What happened at Shiloh National Military Park?

The Battle of Shiloh, fought on April 6-7, 1862, was one of the early major battles in the Western Theater of the American Civil War. Here’s a brief overview of what happened:

Location: The battle took place near Pittsburg Landing on the Tennessee River, close to the Shiloh Methodist Church, which gave the battlefield its name.

Union Forces: About 65,000 Union troops under the command of General Ulysses S. Grant and General Don Carlos Buell were encamped at Pittsburg Landing.

Confederate Forces: Approximately 44,000 Confederate troops under General Albert Sidney Johnston and General P.G.T. Beauregard launched a surprise attack on the Union forces.

First Day of Battle: The Confederates initially achieved success, pushing back the Union forces and causing heavy casualties. However, the Union troops managed to hold their ground and establish a defensive line1.

Second Day of Battle: On the second day, Union reinforcements arrived, and General Grant launched a counterattack. The Confederates were eventually forced to retreat, resulting in a Union victory1.

Casualties: The battle was one of the bloodiest of the Civil War, with nearly 24,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing.

Strategic Impact: Although the battle did not result in a decisive tactical victory for either side, it was a strategic defeat for the Confederates. The Union forces went on to capture Corinth, a critical railroad junction, further weakening the Confederate hold on the region1.

The Battle of Shiloh was a turning point in the Western Theater and demonstrated the brutal nature of the Civil War.

What should I do at Shiloh National Military Park?

Shiloh National Military Park offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors interested in history and outdoor activities. Here are some things you can do:

Auto Tour: Take a self-guided auto tour of the battlefield. The route is about 12.7 miles long and includes stops at key points of interest with interpretive signs and monuments.

Hiking: There are several trails you can explore, including a 1.1-mile trail through the Shiloh Indian Mounds village. The park encourages visitors to hike and walk the grounds to see the monumentation and tablets away from the auto tour roads1.

Visitor Center: Start your visit at the Visitor Center, where you can watch a short film, view exhibits, and pick up a park brochure to help guide your tour.

Shiloh National Cemetery: Visit the cemetery, which is the final resting place of 3,892 soldiers and sailors. It’s a somber and beautiful place to reflect on the history and sacrifices made during the Civil War1.

Living History Demonstrations: Check the park’s schedule of events for living history demonstrations, reenactments, and other special programs that bring the history of the park to life.

Picnicking: There are picnic areas available if you want to enjoy a meal outdoors. It’s a great way to relax and take in the surroundings.