Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Dover

Had an awesome experience visiting this National Battlefield. The rangers were very helpful and provided me with plenty of maps and info to complete some hiking trails and self-guided audio tours. The signage throughout the Battlefield was well laid-out and easy to find on the map. This is important because there are sites located throughout the town of Dover; not just within the park. It was so cool to be able to walk through and picture the history that took place here. Having accounts of those who served during the conflict was extremely valuable and sobering. One thing that surprised me was seeing a Confederate monument for the first time in my life. Once you do some reading of the provided info packet and the associated signs at the site, you begin to understand its importance. The soldiers of the Confederate Army were often buried where they fell and/or placed in unmarked mass graves nearby. This monument stands as the sole marker in recognition of their memory. War hurt a lot of people on both sides and it's important to have an open mind in order to understand our history in its full narrative.

Beautiful and perfectly re-creation of the fortifications. The view is spectacular. After visiting numerous other battlefields, this may be my favorite of them all. You can feel the battle going on as the ships come up the river and the Rebels hold them off with their cannons. This fortress makes you want to be a kid again.