Licensed from Columbia University Press
Fort Pillow is known for being the site of a horrific massacre. On the other hand, Fort Pillow is known by some--presumably unaware of its actual history--for its humorous name.
Confederate fort 1861
In 1861, the Confederate States Army built extensive fortifications here and named the site for General Gideon J. Pillow of Maury County.Union fort, and Battle of Fort Pillow
Because of its strategic location, the fort was taken by the Union Army, which controlled it during most of the war. An exception to this control occurred for less than one day immediately after the Battle of Fort Pillow in 1864.
June 4, 1862 - American Civil War: Confederate troops evacuate Fort Pillow on the Mississippi River, leaving the way clear for Union troops to take Memphis, Tennessee.
The Confederate victory at the Battle of Fort Pillow (April 1864) ended in the killing of 229 Black Union soldiers out of 262 engaged in the battle. This slaughter by the Southern troops under Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest has been labeled a massacre. "Remember Fort Pillow!" became a battle cry among Black soldiers for the remainder of the Civil War.
Historic site and museum
In 1973, the site was added to the National Register of Historic Places.It was further declared a National Historic Landmark in 1974.
Remains of the earthworks are well-preserved in 2007.
The park has an Interpretive Center/Museum (open 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily, except for certain holidays). Tours of the museum and restored fortifications are available upon request. The park also offers many recreational activities, including camping, picnicking and fishing.
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