Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

The Horseshoe Bend National Military Park is both fun and educational. The park now covers the area where the final battle of the Creek Indian War (1813 and 1814) was fought. This battle was a very important historical event, not only for ending the war, but also for securing the prominence of Andrew Jackson, who led the Tennessee Militia during the battle. Located in the park is a museum featuring many artifacts from the battle, such as arrowheads and cannonballs.

At Horseshoe Bend, however, there is much more to learn about than just the battle. Explaining Creek Indian culture and history is a very important aspect of the park, and there is also a 20 minute film on the history of the area.

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park also hosts an annual special event in memory of the battle fought there. Usually the last weekend in March, the event consists of about 70 people setting up camps and putting on historical exhibitions, such as musket demonstrations and Creek Indian dances.

The park's visitor center is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and the tour road is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 days a week. The park does close, however, for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. For more information, call 234-7111.