11/15/26. The first major Union victory of the Civil War happened at Mill Springs Battlefield (KY). Fought on January 19, 1862, the Union’s victory broke the eastern end of the Confederate defensive line across Kentucky, secured the state for the Union, and opened the door into middle Tennessee. It also gave the North a much-needed morale boost early in the war and cost the Confederates their commander, General Felix Zollicoffer. I walked around the battlefield on the park’s two trails. It was odd, imagining all the bloody and terrible fighting while at the same time enjoying today’s beautiful and crisp fall scenery.

Earlier, I tried to visit Creelsboro Natural Bridge, a dolomite rock formation Native Peoples used to use for shelter. This National Natural Landmark is in nearby Russell County and has a history of being open to the public even though it’s on private property. Got to the access road only to be greeted by a closed gate and a “No Trespassing” sign.