Battle for Decatur
Remembering the historic battle that stopped the Confederate Army of Tennessee from reaching the Tennessee River
In October of 1864, over 3,000 men stopped 39,000 Confederate soldiers from gaining access to the pivotal Tennessee River. Over a century later, the citizens of Decatur, Alabama host an annual reenactment of the infamous battle remembering the men who fought during the American Civil War. This annual reenactment takes place on Labor Day weekend, September 2nd- 3rd, and is held at Point Mallard Park. This year's reenactment will be the 159th anniversary of the historic Battle for Decatur!
A glimpse into Decatur's history
In 1864, Confederate General John Bell Hood was marching through northern Alabama on his way to Union held territory in Tennessee. He needed to find an access point to the Tennessee River. Hood had planned to cross the Tennessee River in Guntersville, Alabama but had received word that the area was heavily guarded. Changing his plan, he headed to Decatur, Alabama expecting an easier way across. When General John B. Hood arrived in Decatur on October 26th he discovered a much larger force of men than he had believed to be there.
Decatur was equipped with two forts and 1,600 yards of rifle pits, along with two Federal gunboats that patrolled the Tennessee River. Meanwhile Union General George Thomas, in Nashville, sent supplies and reinforcements to Decatur along with orders to "defend Decatur to the last extremity." The loss of the river town could've been detrimental. On October 27th, Hood led his Confederate soldiers into a ravine but was met by Federal forces. Union soldiers had captured 125 men and Hood decided that they could not afford a full-scale assault. He lead his men out of Decatur towards Tuscumbia to make another attempt at crossing the Tennessee River.
The Reenactment
The Battle for Decatur Reenactment last over the entire Labor Day weekend. On Friday September 1st, re-enactors perform for local schools who come to experience the historical battle from 9:30 AM- 2:00 PM. Then re-enactors have another performance on Saturday, September 2nd. In the morning of September 3rd, the re-enactor's camps become open to the public. Then the Battle for Decatur takes place starting at 2:00 PM!
There will also be a Ladies Tea on Saturday September 2nd located at the Point Mallard Chapel. This event will start at 11:00 AM and is open to the public. You may find women in historical gowns, and some treats!
You can view the reenactment on two occasions, the first Battle for Decatur reenactment will be on Saturday, September 2nd @2:00 PM, and the next Battle for Decatur reenactment will be on Sunday, September 3rd @2:00 PM. There will be seating available at Point Mallard Park. Please be aware of sensory issues if attending the event. There will be loud noises throughout the reenactment so please prepare accordingly.
