toN ~· THE SIEGE AND BATTLE OF CORINTH

A STRATEGY FOR PRESERVATION, PROTECTION AND INTERPRETATION

· Prepared for The Citizens of Corinth,

as a Technical Assistance Product of Southeast Region and the American Battlefield Protection Progrmn

PLEASE RE'MN TO: September 1991 TECHNICALINFORMATtON CENiER DENVER SERVICE CENTER B&WScans NATIONAL PARK SERVICE s-jrr9)~oo 3 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This document is a National Park Service The report tines not address the feasibility and technical assistance effort provided to the citizens suitability t~f these sites as parks on a federal, of Corinth as part of the American Battlefield state, or local level. The local community, Protection Program. It is intended to present the particularly '(he Corinth Task Force,' provided community of Corinth, Mississippi, with ideas significant input in the generation of this report. about the alternatives available to them for preserving the resources associated with the Siege and Battle of Corinth.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY: WITH ASSISTANCE FROM:

Paul Hartwig l'vlaureen Danaher Foster Deputy Associate Regional Director Historian Cultural Resources Washington Office Southeast Regional Office Katie Ryan Gene Cox Historian Chief, Division of Interpretation Washington Office Everglades National Park

Paul Hawke Historian Southeast Regional Office CARTOGRAPHY:

Virginia Horak Doug !vladsen Editor Landscape Architect Southeast Regional Office Southeast Regional Office TABLE OF CO.NTENTS

INTRODUCTION ... . . I

SIGNIFICANCE .. 2 ~> Troop :Movernents ...... 7

RESOURCE ASSESSMENT 12

PLANNING CoNSIDERATIONs .. 26

PLANNING PERSPECTIVES ...... • • ...... 2 8

I> Strategies ...... JO

I> Effects of Ownership on Resources ...... 34

FINDINGS ..•.•..•••..•..•.••...... J6

APPENDIXES ..•..•...... •..•..•...... •...•...... 38

I> A - Siege and Battle of Corinth Task Force ...... 39

I> B - Establishing a Friends Group ...... 40

I> C - Interpretive Potential ...... 41

I> D - Visitor Center Options ...... 43

I> E - American Battlefield Prp~ection Program ...... 46 ,,

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I INTRODUCTION

The citizens of Corinth, Mississippi have long To ensure the survival of Corinth's historic Presen·atiou is best shown interest in the historic resources in and resources, a comprehensive program , with a achiel'ed wheu the around their community. In response to their strong foundation is essential. Just as a building people closest to tf1e urging, the Secretary of the Interior designated requires basic components-mortar, bricks and pface ill queUiou are several sites associated with the Siege and Battle craftsmanship-such a program must incorporate close/)' iui'Oll'ed - wheu presermtiou is of Corinth as a National Historic Landmark. some basic elements. Preservation, protection happe11i11g 11ot for Thus, Corinth received the distinction of joining and interpretation, with consideration to owner­ them or to them, but some 2,000 National Landmark properties across ship, are the key ingredients which, when skill­ ll'ith them. America. With this new status comes a serious fully combined, will form the foundation of an responsibility to preserve, protect, and interpret enduring project. This document, in the context Mauual Luja11, Jr. these resources for future generations. of Corinth's history and current circumstallccs, U.S. Secretary of provides some basic components for h11ildi11g a the 111/erior successful program to share the hi.,lory and manage the rich resources of Corinth.

Oppo.•ire f'"K'': "0/lro the Wflr" by lVaJFon Taber

Page I SIGNIFICANCE

Corinth, Mississippi, originally known as Cross to Union invasion. Two Union City, was founded in the 1850s. This small armies under l\·laj. Gen. Ulysses S. and town numbering less than 400 residents in 1860, Maj. Gen. Do11 Carlos Buell advanced on Cor­ was soon to play an important role in the strug­ inth planning to unite at Pittsburg Landing on the gle between the North and the South. Located in , 22 miles northeast of the town. the northeast corner of Mississippi near the Grant, the first to arrive, bivouacked his army to Tennessee border, Corinth grew up around the wait for Uuell. Grant did not expect any m;~or crossover of two important railroad lines. The Confederate activity, but before Buell could join first, the Memphis & Charleston, was the only him, Confederate Gen. through railroad in the South. This east-west led his army out of Corinth for a surprise attack line provided service from the on Grant. Thus began the Battle of Shiloh, the at Memphis, by way of Chattanooga, branching first great bloody battle of the Civil War (April off to Richmond, Atlanta and beyond. The 6-7, 1862). The timely arrival of Buell's army second railroad, the north-south Mobile & , and Grant's ability to rally his army, forced the connected Mobile, , with Columbus, Confederates to withdraw to Corinth and saved Kentucky. Since the only other railroads of the Union forces from defeat. similar size and importance were in the North, the young Confederacy depended on these two Following lhe Battle of Shiloh, the two Union railways. During the first two years of the Civil armies were joined with a third and Maj. Gen. War, the crossroads enjoyed a great level of sig­ Henry \V. llalleck assumed command of lhc nificance as Union forces planned their strategy "army group." Grant served as deputy com­ to invade the South. In the campaign (April­ mander wi til l\ laj. Gen. George H. Thomas in May 1862) leading to the , Cor­ charge of TilL~ Army of the Tennessee; Maj. inth was considered one of the most strategic Gen. commanding the Army of locations in the Confederacy. the Ohio;

Page 2 ' .

On April28, 1862, Halleck began an advance on Corinth that was to last until May 30, 1862. Known as the Siege of Corinth, the campaign of this powerful "army group" has been described as the "most extraordinary display of entrench­ ment under offensive conditions witnessed in the entire war." Beginning with a cautious march from Pittsburg Landing and Hamburg Landing in Tennessee, Halleck's army warily pushed for­

ward. By May 2 the Northerners were within 12 c miles of Corinth. Despite these defenses, the Confederates were From "Baffle in 77w Meanwhile, the Confederates constructed de­ unable to hold their positions. On the night of Ci1·il War" by Paddy fenses to guard the eastern and northern ap­ May 29-30, 1862, Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard (who Grij]itll. lll!wration f1y proaches to Corinth. Anchored on the Memphis took command after Albert Sidney Johnston was by Peter Dennis. and Charleston Railroad on the west side, these killed at Shiloh) withdrew his troops from Cor­ earthworks followed the commanding ground inth. The loss of Corinth led to the evacuation northwest and north of Corinth, crossed the of Fort Pillow on the Mississippi River and the and Purdy Road, fall of Memphis, Tennessee. The lwo vital turned south to follow the high ground com­ Southern railroads that crossed at Corinth had manding Bridge Creek, traversed the Memphis been severed. Northern Alabama, rvtississippi, and Charleston Railroad well east of the cross­ and west Tennessee, as well as the l'vlississippi over, and finally hooked up to the Danville River route to Vicksburg, lay open to Union Road, one-half mile east of the Mobile and Ohio. armtes.

Page J During the summer of 1862, Union forces By the late .stlllllller and early autumn of 18(>2, occupied Corinth and hastily erected six batteries Confederat~ arlllies were on the march along a (A-F) west of town. Generals Halleck and Grant thousand-mile front. Confederate Maj. Gen. concurred that Corinth was still inadequately Earl Van Dom joined fvlaj. Gen. 's protected from the west and northwest. Maj. after Price's retreat from Gen. William S. Rosecrans, now commanding Iuka, rvtississippi. As senior officer, Van Dorn the at Corinth, complied with the led the 22.000-man Confederate army north to wishes of his superior officers by constructing Pocahontas, Tennessee on the Memphis and Cha­ additional defenses to the west and north. They rleston Railroad-a long day's march northwest consisted of redoubts connected by rifle-pits. of Corinth. It was from here on October 2, These positions were further strengthened by an 1862, that the Confederate army began its ad­ abatis (felled timber with sharpened branches, vance on Corinth. l3y 10:00 AM on October 3, "Looking for a Friend" arranged to face the expected direction of an the Confederates initiated the Battle of Corinth by Walton Taber enemy's attack) where the lines extended into when their forces crossed Cane Creek on the forested areas. Chewalla Road. Meeting with heavy skirmish­ ing, the Con federates continued southeast on either side of the Memphis and Charleston Rail­ road from the Cane Creek crossing area. Maj. Gen. Mansfield Lovell's division deployed south of the road, while Maj. Gen. Dabney Maury and Brig. Gen. Louis Hebert deployed to the north. Fighting continued all day along the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, the Chewalla Road leading into Corinth, and west of the Mobile a·nd Ohio Railroad. Toward the end of the first day, heavy fighting concentrated along the ridge near the and Ba!Lery F. The Union soldiers, outflanked, were forced to withdraw into their redoubts nearest the tmvn.

Page 4 •'

The morning of October 4 saw the Confederates Corinth and North Mississippi remained in delayed by organizational problems. Finally, the Union hands until the winter of 18GJ-G.'!.·. when attack renewed', Confederate forces slammed into the Federals abandoned their Corinth enclave. the Union defenses at Battery Robinett. The de­ Corinth was never again to hold such strategic fenders of the battery contested every step of the value. oncoming advance, sustaining heavy casualties. Confederate Col. William P. Rogers leading the 2nd Texas Regiment had his horse shot from "National Ccmclcty, under him. Rogers grabbed the regiment's battle Corinth, Mi.nissippi" flag from a wounded color-bearer and continued by Walwn Taher to lead the assault on foot. Reaching the scarp of Battery Robinett, Rogers planted the colors only to be shot dead .

. Fire from Battery Williams to the south, and a counterattack by Union reserves forced the Confederates to give way. Other Confederates who had fought their way into town near the railroad crossover, also were compelled to fall back. By noon, the Confederate army was in retreat. The next day, October 5, the Confeder­ ates found their way blocked at Davis Bridge over the Hatchie River. VanDorn, after a sharp fight, was forced to retreat south to Crum 's Mill where he crossed the Hatchie and continued on to Holly Springs.

Page 5 The Confederacy never fully recuperated from The Battle of Corinth took its toll. In killed, the defeats at Antietam, September 17; Corinth, wounded, or missing, the Confederates lost October 3-4; and Perryville, October 8, 1862. 4,838 men,' while the North lost 2,359. The These reversals were a factor in preventing percentage of losses (22% of the Confederate British recognition of the Confederacy and in and I 0.2% of the Union troops) rivals some of strengthening the force of the Emancipation the bloodiest conOicts of the Civil War. Today Proclamation which President the remaining earthworks and the battlefield at issued four days after Antietam. The earth­ Corinth arc silent witness to the carnage and de­ works, rare surviving examples of early Civil struction of, so long ago; they stand in quiet War field fortifications, were part of a develop­ tribute to those who sacrificed so much, some­ ing technology that was later applied extensively times their lives, for their beliefs. at Vicksburg (1863), northern Virginia and Petersburg (1864), and Atlanta (1864). This technology eventually evolved into the trench warfare system of World War I.

Page 6 •. TROOP MOVEMENTS

BATTLE OF.CORINTH OCTOBER 3-4, 1 662

"llalled's Amiy orr the Mnrch to Corimh" hy Ed11·in J. Meeker

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OCTOBER 3,

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BATTLE 0 OCTOBER 3,

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4 (~ -CORINTH = I _-_I ~2:£J~~ r

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4 ,., RESOURCE ASSESSMENT

"Building Breastworks Before Corinth • by Edwin J. Meeker

Page 12

------fiRST PHASE, BAITLE OF CORINTH AREA L~i,

Page 13 Significance: Heavy fighting occurred here at the end of the first day; Lovell's Confederates captured Battery F forcing Union soldiers into the inner defensive works. Description: The parapet is between three and six feel high, with a ditch in front. There is evi­ dence of the glacis, which can be seen in front of the ditch. The battery curves slightly in the shape of a crescent.

Integrity: 0ome deterioration. --r:h~ viewshed (an area that can be viewed from a given point) has been impacted by residential development. Threats: The residential area around the battery is under development. Many of the adjacent lots arc being subdivided, and new construction is in Evidence of encroaching development around progress. The battery will soon be surrounded Batte!)' F. One of the by new houses. Union army's six outer bal/eries, it was cap­ trn·ed the evening of October 3, 1862.

Page 14 8ATIERY ROBINETI

Significance: Battery Robinett is one of the six major batteries erected and armed by Union soldiers during the summer of 1862. These Union batteries enabled the Federals to guard against Confederate forces approaching from the west and south. Description: This city-owned site includes are­ constructed battery and an obelisk. Battery Robinett is surrounded by a residential neighbor­ hood on three sides and a light industrial com­ plex to the west. The view from the site toward the city is currently being restored by removing public housing units adjacent to the park. Integrity: For an unspecified period, the site was used for residential purposes. The current battery, located several yards from the original, 17u! !1attery Rohincll, is a reconstnJ~tion based on archeological and COII.\'fi"UCied . . by Union documentary investigations. The reconstructed forc·cs, 1ms the ,\·(·cne r!f battery dominates the city park. the pii'Otal Cm!lcderare attack a11d rep11f.\e 011 Threats: Visitor impact on the site is the great­ Octo/Ja 4, 1862 est threat to any remaining integrity. Historical research and a thorough archeological survey should be completed before any further recon­ struction of the battery is considered.

l'tlgC 15 UNION EARTHWORKS: HARPER ROAD

Significance: Approximately 1,000 feet south of the intersection of Harper Road and Mississippi State Higlnvay 2, are the remains of the Union rifle-pits constructed by Brig. Gen. Stephen !\.. Hurlbutt's and Brig. Gen. Thomas A. Davies' divisions (Army of the Tennessee). Description: Running in a north-to-south line parallel to Harper Road on their east, they mea­ sure I, 164 feet long, three to four feet high, and · about ten to twelve feet wide. These earthworks are covere.d with underbrush, pines,. and hard­ wood trees. Between Harper Road and the earthworks, grass and brush grow; a plowed field lies to the west. Integrity: Weathering and gradual deterioration A view of the tree line over the years resulted in a filling of the ditch, marking the location of the Union earthworh in a loss of dct;1il. and erosion of approximately relation to limper Road. one half the original height of the earthworks. Threats: The area around Harper Road is a growing residential neighborhood with no land use protection. There is potential for the land encompassing the earthworks to be subdivided; this could leq~l. to the destruction of t.he earth-. works.

Page 16 CoNFEDERATE EARTHWORKS: BETWEEN THE MOBILE & OHIO RAILROAD AND PURDY ROAD

Significance: These earthworks represent the Threats: The earthworks are located in an inac­ A typical e_'WIIlple of m1 northern section of the Confederate fortifications cessible area with no land use protection; the eartfn,·ork construct ion built around Corinth from mid-March to May owner, however, shows interest in seeing the from "Battle ill the C'il'il 29, 1862. War'" by Paddy Grij]itlr. earthworks preserved. An October 15, 1990 Illustration by Peter report by Barta and Associates, Inc. entitled An­ Description: With a few exceptions, the earth­ De1111is. nexation Study, Corimh, Missi.uippi, 1ists this works extend in a continuous line for approxi­ area for future residential developmenl. Some mately 8,500 feet. Ranging from six inches to erosion is taking place. fifteen feet in height, they average three to five feet high along most of the line; their average width is ten to twelve feet. Integrity: The earthworks are in excellent condition except for the last I ,000 feet, which are badly damaged and eroded.

Page 17 UNION SIEGE liNES: SHERMAN's. AND DAVIES' DIVISIONS

Significance: The earthworks were built in May 1862 as part of the Union advance during the Siege of Corinth. Description: The largest of the two sections of these earthworks is situated in a stand of trees surrounded by cultivated fields. Located about 2,000 feet north of Mississippi Slate Highway 2, they measure I ,322 feet long in a west to east line, range two to four feet high, and average 10 feet wide. The other section is covered with mowed grass and shaded by a canopy of trees. Ranging one to two feet high and two to three feet wide, they extend 475 feet beginning at a gravel drive, proceed east, and end at Missis­ sippi Stale Highway 2, interrupted only by a 25- fool wide dirt road. Earth1vork remains.from rhe May 1862 Unio,ll ad­ lntegrifJ': The northwestern section is in good vance are typically two condition. The southeastern part, near Missis­ ro four feet high; how­ sippi State II ighway 2, has deteriorated badly; el•er, some batteries still less than 20 percent of the original height and srand ten ro fifreen feel width remain. high. Threats: The needs of the agricultural areas surrounding this site could adversely affect the earthworks. While there are currently no land use restrictions, the 1990 Annexarion. Sllldy lists this area for potential residential zoning.

Page 18 UNION SIEGE LINES: ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE AND

Significance: The earthworks were built in May 1862 as part of the Union advance during the Siege of Corinth. Description: Extending south from Henderson Road and running parallel to the unimproved field road for approximately 2500 feet, these rifle-pits rise one to two feet high and span two to three feet in width. In two places they are traversed by unimproved field roads and portions have been leveled during cultivation. Most of the line is covered by undergrowth and trees. At the southern end stand two battery positions approximately 250 long and two to four feet high. Bombproofs, approximately 25 feet long by 25 feet wide and 4 feet high, stand one at the One nf the relllrlllllllg hombproof.r near the har­ foot of each of the two battery positions. teries at the Union siege Integrity: Weathering and gradual deterioration Threats: Agricultural use has affected, and will lines constructed !Jy the has occurred. Approximately one half the height An11ies nf rhe Tcnne.uee continue to have an impact on the earthworks. and rhe Ohio. of the earthworks has been lost, more in certain Currently there is no land use protection but areas. The bombproofs have suffered some ero­ future zoning plans, as indicated in Corinth's sion. Otherwise, these earthworks maintain a 1990 Annexation Study, slate the area for heavy very good state of integrity. and light industry.

Page 19 ...

RAILROAD CROSSOVER

Significance: The crossover of the 1\kmphis and Charleston and the Mobile and Ohio Rail­ roads was the catalyst for. Corinth's existence and military significance. Today, the Illinois Central Gulf and the Southern Railroads cross at this same point. In some respects, this single location is more important than any other in understanding Corinth's critical role in the Civil War. Description: The crossing of two railroad lines is located near the 1917 railroad depot. Integrity: The railroad lines are modern, how­ ever, the tracks and crossover remain in the same location as the original lines. Threats: This active railroad crossing is located 17ze junction where the Mobile & Ohio and the in present-day downtown Corinth. While the Memphis & Charleston historical integrity of the site has been adversely Railroads cross. impacted, the location and configuration of the crossroads remain the same.

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CONFEDERATE RIFLE-PIT

Significance: The earthworks were constructed by Confederate forces in April and May 1862, during the Siege of Corinth. Description: · The crescent-shaped rifle-pit is oriented to face northeast. · Approximately three feet high, ten to twelve feet wide and fifty feet long, this low earthwork, devoid of sod, is subject to erosion. The trench has been infilled by slope was!~ from the embankment. Integrity: The earthwork has experienced severe weathering and deterioration. Very little of the above ground resource exists. Threats: Very deteriorated. Surrounded by residential area. -·· iP +A P .. Qt&A- - Remains of the Con­ fedcmte rifle-pit.

Page 21 DUNCAN I-lOUSE ' Significance: The Duncan House, on the east side of Polk Street between Bunch and Linden Streets, was the headquarters of Confederate Maj. Gen. John C. Breckenridge in April and May 1862. Dcscript ion: This one-story, wood frame house has a central gabled roof and a full length front porch. Integrity: Built in 1857, the house has under­ gone several changes and has heen moved from its original location, however,' much of the origi­ nal historic fabric remains.

Thn~ats: The building is deteriorating and needs maintenance.

17le Duncan House once served as Mmdquai·ters for Confederate Major General Breckenridge.

Page 22 "

FISHPOND HoUSE OAK HOME

Significance: Fishpond House, situated at the Signil1cance: Oak Home, on Fillmore Street northeast corner of the intersection of Kilpatrick between Bunch and Gloster Streets, was the and Childs Streets, served as the headquarters of headquarters of Confederate Maj. Gen. Leonidas Confederate Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard from late Polk from late March to May 29, 1862. March to May 29, 1862. Description: The original wood frame, four­ Description: Built in 1857, this one-story, wood room block house was enlarged and rehabilitated frame house stands on brick piers and IS sur­ circa 1930 in the then popular "WilliamsiHirg" rounded on three sides by a veranda. It was interpretation of the Colonial style. rehabilitated circa 1930. Integrity: The building retains very little of the Integrity: The structure has lost some of its historic fabric. From Wn/ter Fcnn 's historic fabric. The most prominent change was Thn~ats: Minor deterioration. sketche.'i of Corimll the removal of the projecting cupola housing the dln!llings. cistern on the roof which purportedly gave Fish­ pond House its name. Threats: Minor deterioration.

Page 2:1 CURLEE HOUSE ' Significance: Located on Jackson Street be­ tween Childs and Bunch Streets in Corinth, the Curlee House, originally called the Veranda House, served as the headquarters of Confeder­ ate Maj. Gens. and Earl Van Dorn in April and May 1862, and of Union Maj. Gen. Henry W. Halleck from May 30, to mid­ July 1862.

Description: The Curlee House is a one-story, wood frame house, three bays wide, resting on brick piers. Originally built in the Greek Reviv­ al style, it was remodeled in the 1930s to reflect Walter Fem1 's historic a then popular trend in architectu're toward the sketch of the Curlee Colonial Revival styles. House. Integrity: Alterations have been made including Opposite page: 17ze the frame addition built in the early '1930s. Curlee House today. Threats: rvlinor deterioration.

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trlANNING CONSIDERATIONS

PoPULATION TRANSI'ORTJ\TION

' Several factors must Over the past fifty years, Corinth's population Three railroad5 intersect in Corinth-the Corinth be considered whell has grown at a rate of approximately twenty and Counce, the Illinois Central, and the South­ discussing presel'va­ percent per decade. By 1990, 17,118 people ern. The Illinois Central follows the historic tion, protection and resided here, with the annexation of areas from Mobile and Ohio route, while the Southern inte1pretation strate­ Alcorn County contributing to the rise in num­ traces the old 1\lcmphis and Charleston line. gies. Population, bers in more recent years. Development of the transp01tation, land · nearby NASA facility will no doubt draw more Two m<\ior U.S. Highways intersect in Corinth. use and zoning are people to the area, at least several hundred per U.S. 45 runs north and south through town, just of few of the year over the next four years. Based on this and serving as the primary business route. The U.S. most imp01tant con­ normal growth trends, a twenty-one percent 45 Bypass diverts "through" traffic to the west of sidetations that will population increase is projected for the last Corinth and is a limited access highway. It set the climate for decade of the 20th Century. According to the extends through a portion of the October 3-4 and haJ'e an impor­ Annexation Study of 1990, by the year 2010, the Battle area, and cuts through where some of the tant impact on the population of Corinth's urban area is expected to original Con federate works of the Beauregard preservation ejj01ts reach 35,974. This poteiltial growth will affect line were located. U.S. 72 provides access from in Corinth. development as more and more families settle the east and west, widening into four lanes at here and residential areas expand. Land use in Corinth, and is fully accessible with numerous and around Corinth will be affected as various cross roads, traffic lights, and turn-offs. Mis­ interests vie for space. sissippi State Highway 2 intersects U.S. 45 and the U.S. 45 Bypass north of the city and pro­ vides Corinth with access to Shiloh National Military Park and Pickwick Lake.

Page 26 lAND UsE AND ZONING

The zoning of land and its subsequent use pro­ vides a setting for Corinth's historic resources. Local govenmient makes the decisions regarding zoning and, in this sense, controls the future of landmark sites. While the city owns some of the sites, for which visitation is permitted and limited interpretation is provided, other sites are interspersed in areas zoned for residential, light industry or agricultural use. These locations may potentially be threatened or destroyed depending on how surrounding land is developed in the future. Zoning proposed in the 1990 Annexation Study, Corinth, Mississippi will affect some of the sites currently located in landmarks for listing on the National Register of unzoned areas of Alcorn County. Historic Places. Its review process requires the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness prior The Corinth Preservation Commission will also to any exterior alterations, demolition, or new be instrumental in prote.cting sites by providing construction affecting local landmarks. A con­ standards that will impact future preservation scientious local government, sensitive to preser­ "Headquarters i11 the efforts. Working within the city government, vation needs, will play a key role in the survival Field" by Rufus F. the Commission inventories and designates local of historic resources. Zogbaum

Page 27 PLANNING PERSPECTIVES ·

The historic resources associated with the Siege The first overview, Strategies, lists appropriate and Battle of Corinth retain a relatively high actions for ,achieving the preservation, protec­ level of integrity. They exist in a slowly chang­ tion, and interpretation of the individual sites. ing environment and have moderate needs for These actions, based only on a preliminary preservation and protection. It is important to evaluation of possibilities, should be viewed as keep these significant resources either by assur­ potential treatments that can be changed as cir­ ing that the conditions are maintained that allow cumstances warrant. their current preservation, or by placing controls on activities that might have an adverse impact The second overview, Effects (!f Ownership on on the resources. Resources, addresses the subject of public versus private owne,rship. The type of ow~1ership may For Corinth to provide the necessary protective alter the threats to a site, its accessibility, and measures, the significance of the resources must the qual iI y and type of interpretation. Here we be understood by its people. Their support is compare some effects that a change from private critical for permanent preservation of the historic ownership (status quo) to private ownership with sites.· The two following overviews will help preservation controls or public ownership might explore ways in which the significant resources have. associated with the Siege and Battle of Corinth can be protected, preserved, and interpreted, The overviews should serve as a foundation for while providing economic stimulus for the the comprehensive planning that needs to take community. place at the local level, perhaps with assistance from the state or federal government through the American Battlefield Protection Program. A "Friends Group" could spearhead this effort (Appendix 13).

Page 28 •

lminediate steps should be taken to: • identify important historic viewsheds or vistas that define the character of the Siege and. Battle sites; • create protective easements on historic proper­ ties and historic vistas; • establish appropriate protective zoning (city and county governments); • develop potential state and federal sources of \\ technical assistance for activities identified in the overview ·of strategies; • conduct archival studies and field surveys of areas where additional, currently unknown Civil War era resources may be found; and • in coordination with the Mississippi SHPO and the Codnth Preservation Commission, complete National Register of Historic Places Top to boltom: nominations for newly discovered resources in Pierre Gusla\'e Toutant the Corinth area. Beauregard, Ulysus Simpson Gram, and /lewy Wager liol/eck.

Page 29 ..

STRATEGIES GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Corinth Landmarl! Designalion: Slate Anliq'uilies Ad, Mississippi Slate Provides city recognition and protection under Landmark Designation: applicable city laws. Provides state recognition and potent review requirements to assist owners preserve their re­ Easements: sources. Properties are eligible for technical Transfer of certain property development or use assistance and llnancial grants from the !VIissis­ rights, in perpetuity, without transfer of title. sippi Department of Archives and History.

Kiosk: Wayside Exhihits: Small shelters with interpretive displays, usually Signs placed at waysides on major roads with located at a historic resource with a pull off and information ahoill nearby histori'c' resources. parking area. Travelers can pull into the wayside and view the signs from their automobiles. National Historic Landmark Designation: Provides national recognition and protection Zoning: from federal undertakings or undertakings re­ City or county regulations determining land use quiring federal funds or permits. Designated within designated zones. Often determined by properties are eligible for National Park Service the consensus of the public. technical assistance.

Page 30 ,. STRATEGIES PROTECTION, PRESERVATION AND INTERPRETATION

CURLE;E HOUSE "" Remain in city ownership t> Cyclic maintenance 1> Personal services interpretation ~>- Obtain City Landmark status from "" Conduct historic research anti prepare "" Wayside exhibit Historic Preservation Commission building assessment if restoration is a consideration

PRIVATELY 0\VNEIJ "" Private ownership "" Obtain condition assessment reports from ~ Interpretive signing HOUSFS 1> Consider government or non-profit National Park Service "' Duncan ownership for the Duncan House "" Seek preservation grants from Historic • Fishpo11d • Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from Preservation Fund and American • Oak Home Mississippi Department of Archives and Battlelield Protection Program History • Obtain City Landmark status from Historic Preservation Commission "" Obtain easements

BATTERY F "' Exercise Conservation Fund optiOn ~> Stabilize and preseJVe earthworks r- Kiosk with three-panel interpretive signs "' Purchase additional acreage to fully protect site 1> Obtain easements on viewshed ~> Establish protective zoning ~> Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from Mississippi Department of Archives and History

BATTERY ROIIINf:Tr t> Remain in city ownership "' Repair monuments ~> Kiosk with three-four interpretive panels

"' Obtain City Landmark status from I> rvraintain site t> Personal services interpretation Historic Preservation Commission ~> Re.move buildings r- Reconstruction is a considenttion ~> Comluct archeological survey

Page 31 ,. STRATEGIES

PROTECTION, PRESERVATION AND INTERPRETATION

RAILROAD 1> Obtain easement with railroad company I> No preservation needs <> Wayside exhibit CROSSOVER and owners of adjacent lands 1> Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from Mississippi Department of Archives and History 1> Obtain City Landmark status from Historic Preservation Commission

FIRST PHASE: 1> Obtain easements <> Site maintenance " Wayside exhibits BATTLE OF CORINTH 1> Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from " Personal services tours Mississippi Department of Archives and <> Kiosk with exhibits History

CONFEDERATE " Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from 1> Site stabilization " Wayside exhibit RIFLE PIT Mississippi Department of Archives and 1> Restrict access to prevent further History deterioration of the earthworks

CONFEDERATE 1> Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from " Site stabilization " Wayside exhibit EARTHWORKS Mississippi Department of Archives and <> Archeological testing "' Personal services tours

I> Between the Mobile History "' Kiosk with exhibits & Ohio Railroad and the Purdy Road

UNION SIEGE LINES " Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from 1> Site stabilization " Wayside exhibit 1> Anny of the Mississippi Department of Archives and " Archeological testing " Personal services tours Tennessee History "'· Kiosk with exhibits 1> Anny of the Ohio

Page 32 ., STRATEGIES PROTECTION, PRESERVATION AND INTERPRETATION

UNION EARTIIWORKS " Obtain easements " Site stabilization " Wayside exhibit 1> Harper Road " Purchase tum-off area along Harper " Obtain funding from Historic Road Preservation Fund or American " Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from Battlefield Protection Program Mississippi Department of Archives and History

UNION SIEGE LINES " Obtain easements " Site stabilization " Wayside exhibit ~> Shennan's & " Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from Davies' Divisions Mississippi Department of Archives and ~> Paine's Dil'ision History

* BATTLE OF " Include in National Historic Landmark " Archeological testing " Wayside exhibit CORINTH designation " Site stabilization " Personal services tours " Obtain easements " Site maintenance " Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from Mississippi Department of Archives and History

* SIEGE OF CORINTII " Include in National Historic Landmark " Archeological testing " Wayside exhibit designation " Site stabilization " Personal services tours " Obtain easements " Site maintenance " Obtain Mississippi Landmark status from Mississippi Department of Archives and History

* Areas identified as potentially eligible for inclusion in the National Historic Landmark boundaries (Spring 1991 ).

Page 33 EFFECTS OF OWNERSHIP ON RESOURCES GLOSSARY OF TERMS

I Accessibility: Degree to which a visitor can enter, view or experience a resource.

Enhanced Private Owner·ship: A status of ownership whereby a property re­ "Depot and Hotel, mains in private ownership with preservation Corinth" by Hany Femi controls in force to protect its historic integrity. Examples of such contracts are easements (trans­ fer of development rights or use), zoning, and title covenants which result from receipt of Historic Preservation Fund grants.

Interpretat.ion: Most appropriate method of presenting the story of the site to visitors.

Public Ownership: A status of ownership whereby a property is pur­ chased by a government agency and developed.

Threats: Forces both natural and man-made that can endan.ger a resource. Details on types of threats are available in the Resource Assessment section of this study.

Page 34 EFFECTS OF OWNERSHIP ON RESOURCES

Duncan House Deteriorating Viewed from None None Viewed from Wayside exhibit None Viewed from Wayside exhibit rapidly street only (Preserved) street only (Preserved) street only; lease out house

Fishpond House Minor Viewed from None None Viewed from Wayside exhibit None Viewed from Wayside exhibit deterioration street only (Preserved & street only (Preserved & street only; lease rehabilitated) rehabilitated) out house

Oak Home None Viewed from None None Viewed from Wayside exhibit None Viewed from Wayside exhibit street only (Preserved & street only (Preserved & street only; lease rehabilitated) rehabilitated) out house

Battery F Development Viewed from None Potential Viewed from Wayside exhibit if Potential Walking trail to On-site exhibits road only adjacent roadside exhibit access to earth- adjacent Battery after development work restricted development development

Railroad Crossover None Public access None None Public access Wayside exhibit None Public access Wayside exhibit

First Phase: Development 40% viewed No on-site Potential 40% viewed Wayside exhibit; Potential 100% alter On-site exhibits Battle of Corinth from highway visitation; limited adjacent from highway possible limited adjacent development to wayside development on-site visitation development

Confederate Potential future Inaccessible None Potential Inaccessible None without Potential 100% alkr On-site exhibits Earthworks development adjacent without easement adjacent development of development developing road permitting development trail and road system visitation rights system

Union Siege Lines: Potential Inaccessible None Potential Inaccessible None without Potential 100% after On-site exhibits Armies of the development adjacent without easement adjacent development of Tmnessee and the development developing road permitting development trail and road Ohio system visitation rights system

Union Earthworks: Imminent Viewed from None Potential Viewed from Wayside exhibit Potential Best viewed Wayside exhibit Harper Road development road only adjacent road only adjacent from road only development development

Union Earthworks: Potential Inaccessible None Potential Inaccessible None without Potential 100% after On-site exhibits Sherma11 's, Davies' development adjacent without easement adjacent development of & Pai11e's Divisions development developing road permitting development road and trail system visitation rights system

Page 35

... .,.. -~-· ... -- .... ' ,J,.,. ·"""~ fiNDINGS

The overview on ownership clearly shows that some cases impossible. The story of Corinth's public ownership of additional land will not Civil War ~vents can best be told in a visitor significantly reduce the threats to Civil War re­ center with limited wayside exhibits. Interpre­ sources in Corinth. Public ownership will make tive efforts at the center could place the signifi­ some of the sites more accessible and might im­ cance of the events in and around Corinth in the prove the visitor experience, but probably not broader conlcxt of the Civil War as a whole and enough to justify the greater monetary and could serve to d ireel the visitor to local sites and dislocation cost to the community. Mississippi regional Civil War sites such as the nearby State Landmark designation, easements, and Shiloh National Military Park. zoning can provide adequate protection to the re­ sources, while allowing the properties to remain The size of the visitor center would depend upon in private hands and on the tax rolls. Without the uses intended for the facility, the interpretive the costs of acquiring and developing additional story line, and the financial resources available public lands, the community can concentrate on (Appendix D: Visitor Center Options). The the much needed interpretation of the Siege and interpretive center could also provide an opportu­ Battle of Corinth. (For examples of interpreta­ nity to discuss other Civil War topics, such as tion see Appendix C.) the importance of railroads during the Civil War and of the contraband (freedman's) camp at Cor­ The two overviews demonstrate the discontig­ inth. The location of Shiloh National Military uous nature of the historic resources associated Park twenty miles to the northeast, with its with the Siege and Battle. The small acreage, historical connection to Corinth, provides an the distance between resources, and their inac­ excellent opportunity for a joint program to pres­ cessibility make on-site visitation difficult, and in ent Corinth's Civil War history.

Page 36 •

To mi1iimize costs and possibly better serve the public, the visitor center could combine with "Batlery Robim•tte, other operations, such as a proposed Mississippi Corinth" by Walton state welcome center or the Corinth Museum. Taber Location is equally important; the visitor center, to successfully draw people, must be both easily accessible and near the historic resources. (See Appendix D for some possible locations.) The role of the National Park Service in development and operation of the visitor center is undeter­ mined at this time, but certainly a limited in­ volvement in exhibit preparation and presentation of interpretive programs for the short term may be warranted.

Recently identified historic resources pertaining to the Siege and Battle of Corinth should be added to the'existii'lg National Historic Landmark nomination. Additional archival and survey work is needed to determine the significance and the integrity of the contraband (freedmen's) f :.~~~ • • ::.;:!l:~t~-~~;::~· :.... , camp for consideration as a National Historic /''\._ f J ·,.~ _.; Landmark or for listing on the National Register c .....s'J -~ of Historic Places. . '.

Page 37 .. APPENDIXES

"P ·ovost-Marshal 's I .. Ofjice, Corinth ··MISSIS-· SljJfJI. . ,. by Hariy Fe1111

Page 38 ,..\ ... ,.

APPENDIX A: SIEGE AND BATTLE OF CORINTH TASK FORCE

Mr. Elbert Hilliard Mr. Clifford G. Worsham State Historic Preservation Officer Consulting Engineer Represented by Ken Ppool Box 1302 . Mississippi Department of Archives and History Corinth, Mississippi 38834 P.O. Box 571 (601) 287-0174 Jackson, Mississippi 39205 (601) 359-1424 Mr. Bobby Worsham Representing Alcorn County Mr. Haywood Harrell, Superintendent State Line Road and George Reaves Corinth, Mississippi 38834 Shiloh National Military Park (60 I) 286-8446 Shiloh, Tennessee 38376 (901) 689-5275 ADVISORS: Honorable E.S. Bishop Mr. Bill Canty Mayor of Corinth Field Representative to Senator Trent Loll Represented by Cliff Bolton, Alderman 911 Jackson Avenue, Suite 127 P.O. Box 352 Oxford, Mississippi 38655 Corinth, Mississippi 38834 (60 I) 234-3714 (601) 286-6644

Mr. Jack Griffith Ms. Rosemary Williams Community Development Director 808 North Filmore Street Northeast Mississippi Planning Corinth, Mississippi 38834 and Development District (601) 287-1328 P.O. Box 600 Booneville, Mississippi 38829 Ms. Margaret G. Rogers (60 I) 728-6248 Corinth Museum 1118 Fifth S~reet Mrs. Stephanie Sandy Corinth, Mississippi 38834 Corinth Preservation Commission (601) 287-3120 P.O. Box 1535 Corinth, Mississippi 38834 Mr. Hugh J. Horton (601) 287-2921 1702 Tate Street Corinth, Mississippi 38834 (601) 286-2894, '

Page J9 APPENDIX B: ESTABLISHING A FRIENDS GROUP

"Friends Groups" have in the past been extreme­ ly successful in helping safeguard historic land­ marks. These local interest groups enable private citizens to join together to oversee the "Camp Gossip • by well-being of historic properties in their own Walton Taber community. The "Friends" can provide valuable advice and help create the partnerships necessary to establish and implement successful protection, preservation and interpretation programs. Op­ portunities exist for the Friend's Group to as­ sume a leadership role and become involved in operational functions. Operating as a legal entity, this type of non-profit organization often has more flexibility than a governmental entity in the planning and actualization of all phases of their own projects.

Through the American Battlefield Protection Program, local groups can obtain a project manual that explains how to establish a Friends Group, become operational, and request on-site assistance.

Page 40 ·I

APPENDIX C: INTERPRETIVE POTENTIAL

As the 21st century approaches, threats to the I> To help the average visitor better utlclerstand historic properties in and around Corinth are the sites in their original context, one ap­ becoming more varied and numerous. Already proach would be to incorporate into Corinth's the infrastructure for a subdivision has been story an explanation of the attitudes and events installed adjacent to Battery F, and recently site that led to the outbreak of the Civil War, and preparation began for a new home next to the the important role played by the railroads. battery. Active interpretive programs will play

a vital role in, and may well become the lifeline I> Interpretive programs could be integrated into of the preservation and protection of Corinth's the state history curriculum offered in public landmarks. These programs, in addition to schools. To generate more awareness among sharing Corinth's story with visitors, can serve students, local civic groups might sponsor as reminders to citizens and visitors alike, of the poster and essay contests, awarding modest importance of our cultural heritage. pnzes.

The story of the Siege and Battle of Corinth is a I> Seminars could be organized. A noted Civil complex one, further complicated by the discon­ War historian or authority could serve as an tiguous nature of events and physical features. honorary chair or be a name draw perhaps for Following are a few examples of interpretation a weekend or a week-long seminar on the approaches that can help unify preservation Civil War. Memberships could be sold for efforts. lecture series. It might even be possible to arrange course credit through a university.

:· •.

Page 41 ·• '

~ Brochures, television series, and newspaper ~ A Fricnd.1 Uroup could operate bus or van articles could be used to inform Corinth tours to the historic sites, scheduling on a citizens of their heritage and promote pro­ regular basis throughout the year special tection efforts at the local, city, county and educational tours for students. state level. Positive publicity could be an incentive, encouraging landowners to actively ~ The services of a traffic engineer may be participate in preservation efforts, while needed to help map a tour route that would strengthening community pride. safely move people through the town. Excel­ lent street signage is a necessity. Perhaps an ~ A limited number of special events could be appropriate logo could be designed and strate­ organized as annual events. If they occur at gically located to guide visitors who are on the same time every year, visitors could plan their own through the town. Arrangements to attend in advance ami look forward to must be made with landowners and the ques­ specific activities taking place. Evacuation tion of liability answered if tours stop on Day (May 30th) and the anniversary of the private property. Battle (October 3-4) could be two special event dates; or, a Christmas Candlelight Week ~ Certain sites lend themselves to interpretation could highlight town activities and feature through wayside exhibits, but there arc limita­ tours with guides dressed in historic clothing. tions. A traveler does not always stop at a wayside to obtain information. Nor do visi­ ~ To draw visitors to Corinth, an !MAX -type tors necessarily progress in an orderly fashion movie is possible. In fact, it is perhaps the from a beginning to an ending exhibit; they best way to explain to large groups of people might commence at any location along the the compelling story of the Siege and Battle way. Thus, each exhibit would need to in­ while spotlighting Corinth's marvelous historic clude the same introductory information along setting and landscape. Revisions of the !MAX with the site-specific story. movies, when appropriate, would help keep Corinth "new" to repeat visitors.

Page 42 • Brochures are helpful in moving visitors about • The use of historical black and white photo­ the battlefield and providing historical infor­ graphs and art work to show the original mation. It is our understanding that in July "look" of a site has proven a very s;JCcessful 1991, the Corinth Preservation Commission interpretation technique. "Before and after" began an inventory of historic buildings. This exhibits can have a powerful impact 011 view­ type of contribution would be particularly ers, while providing a point of refcrcllce. useful in developing publications. Books and Noted Civil War artists could be cnmmis­ guides, if of good quality, would make great sioned to do a limited series on the Corinth sales items ·and serve to spread the story of campaign to be used as fund raisers. Corinth beyond the city's boundaries. A friends group could operate its own bookstore There is one more bonus to a strong interpretive and provide a catalog. program. Fees from seminars, special tours, and exhibits; revenue from the sales or re11tal of • High quality historical tape tours are conve­ narrated tape tours; book sales-all these could nient sources of information for visitors walk­ help defray expenses while aiding the preserva­ ing a battlefield or meandering around the tion effort. Creative marketing and sound sites on their own. These could be rented or organization will play an important role in the sold. success of any program, but the potential for interpretation remains as vast and varied as the • Personal services are the best way to interpret imagination. earthworks. One or two sites could be chosen as the focus of attention.

Page 43 APPENDIX D: VISITOR CENTER OPTIONS

A visitor center would provide a centralized Initial construction costs would generally be in location to orient, inform, and educate travellers the range of $750,000 for a small visitor center; about the various aspects of the May 1862 Siege, $1,500,000 for a construction of medium size; the October 1862 Battle, and Civil War Corinth. and $2,500,000 for a large center. Additional Careful consideration needs to be given to the consideration must be given to quality of design location of the visitor center; it should be situat­ and function i 11 order to create an attraction that ed in an area easily accessible to the main trans- justifies the initial construction and yearly oper­ . portation arteries and the major historic sites. ating costs. Possible locations that might be further evaluated include: SMALL (2,000 SQUARE FEET) ~>- Near Curlee House lllfe1pret the Siege (April-May 1862) and 1Ja11le ~>- In the commercial block (burned out building) 1862) (?f near the Railroad Crossover (Ocwber Corinth and provide general At the Railroad Crossover.- il!fonnation and brochures,· presellf a short slide program in display area "" At Battery Robinett "" At the Union or Confederate Earthworks "" Small display area (1000 sq. ft.) ~>- At the intersection of Highways 45 and 72 "" Small sales area (100 sq. ft.) At the intersection of Highway 45 and ~>- Two offices (150 sq. ft. each; 300 sq. ft. Wenasoga Road total) "" At the intersection of Highway 45 and State ~>- One workroom (150 sq. ft.) Route 2 "" Curatorial storage (150 sq. ft.) "" Lobby (100 sq. ft.) "" Rcstrooms (I 00 sq. ft.) ~>- Mechanical/janitorial space (100 sq. ft.)

Page 44 p •

MEDIUM (4,300 SQUARE FEET) LARGE (8,000 SQUARE FEET) Imerpret the Siege and Battle of Corinth; provide ImoyJI'et the Siege and Battle of Corimh and the limiled on-site personal intelpretation; and Civil War within the region (northern Mi.uissip­ fUrnish general ilifonnation and brochures pi, northwest Alabama, sowhem Ti•n,u•ssee); • Medium display area (2000 sq. ft.) provide for a full range of on-site personal • Medium sales area including 25 sq. ft. storage inteTfJI'etation; give guided driving or walking (200 sq. ft.) tours (possibly supply buses or rans); and pro­ • Auditorium (60 seats) for audio-visual presen­ vide general infonnation and brochures tations (500 sq. ft.) • Large display area (4000 sq. ft.) • Research library (!50 sq. ft.) • Auditorium ( 150 seats) for audio-visual pre­ • Three offices (ISO sq. ft. each; 450 sq. ft. sentations (1000 sq. ft.) total) • Large sales center including 50 sq. ft. storage • One work room (250 sq. ft.) (300 sq. ft.) • Curatorial storage (250 sq. ft.) • Research library (250 sq. ft.) • Lobby (200 sq. ft.) • Offices (2 each 150 sq. ft.; 2 each 225 sq. ft.; • Restrooms (200 sq. ft.) 750 sq. ft. total) • Mechanical/janitorial space (100 sq. ft.) • Workroom (300 sq. ft.) • Curatorial storage ( 400 sq. ft.) • Lobby (400 sq. ft.) • Restrooms (400 sq. ft.) • Mechanical/janitorial space (I 00 Sq. Ft.)

Page 45