Following completion of the Statewide Preservation Plan (PP), TCWPA identified next steps in working towards protection of battlefield sites. Recognizing that TCWPA’s mission is to facilitate and help organize preservation initiatives, an Interpretation Committee was established to identify priorities and specifically consider options to highlight information and education about battlefields. Activities include:
- Expanding interpretation devices and signage is underway, specifically in close association with Civil War Trails at Jefferson Pike, Thompson Station, and Calfkiller River. Other partnerships include the Tennessee Valley Authority at Mossy Creek, The Homestead at Thompson’s Station, Battle of Nashville Trust at Shy’s Hill, United States Forest Service at Fort Henry, and the City of Knoxville/Knoxville Civil War Roundtable at Armstrong Hill.
- The use of QR codes is being evaluated to improve interpretation opportunities and effectiveness.
- Research assistance is being provided to website visitors who have questions about Civil War soldiers and respective battlefields.
A significant component of the PPas been the development and utilization of the Interactive Map on the website. The Interactive Map is the most viewed page on the website with visitors spending considerable time examining its content. This website feature promises to be an important platform for sharing information about battlefields, promoting interest, and identifying opportunities for interpretation and preservation.
