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Boyhood Home of Nathan Bedford Forrest

Boyhood Home of Nathan Bedford Forrest

Album Featured Marshall Co.

Image 8/55

Feb 01, 2013 17:45

  Original

Disclaimer before we get started: I recognize that Forrest (and the confederate flag) are controversial. After the Civil War, Forrest started the Klan but some people claim that his intentions at the time were not racist. I do not take a stand on the issue but I don't have a tolerance for racism. My goal is to photographically document historic or significant sites in the area. Forrest was born to William and Mariam Beck Forrest in Chapel Hill, NC in 1821. In 1830, the family purchased this log cabin and lived here for about 3 years before moving to Mississippi. A few years ago, the home was purchased by the local chapter of Sons of Confederate Veterans. Their goal has been to restore the property to its original condition. There is a sign out front that asks for a $5 donation to help with the upkeep. Once a year, they have a fundraiser event with period costumes and demonstrations. I was actually unaware of this place as I was driving the back roads and looking for something else. I suppose his controversial nature has caused this historic site to not be listed in any brochures or tour guides. I had heard that the house where he was born was long gone.