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 The Heartland of the Confederacy includes two driving trails, each with a distinctive theme. The
Leaders Trail begins in Gainesville, continues through
Jefferson to
Athens and then to
Washington and Crawfordville and shows the homes, artifacts and atmosphere associated with General
James Longstreet, Robert E. Lee's second in command at the Battle of Gettysburg; Generals and brothers
T.R.R. Cobb and Howell Cobb of Athens; Vice President
Alexander H. Stephens and Secretary of State
Robert A. Toombs of the Confederate government. Other sites display the stories of
Crawford W. Long, a physician credited with the discovery of ether anesthesia in 1842, and
Benjamin H. Hill and Henry W.
Grady, who became voices for the "New South" following the Civil War and Reconstruction.
The second Trail in the Heartland winds around Madison, Rutledge and
Athens and stretches toward Winder, tracing the path of
Stoneman's Raid in August 1864. These raiders were sent out by General Sherman to destroy the Armory located in Athens. They caused much destruction, but a home guard composed of males too young, old or feeble to serve in the Army prevented the raiders from entering Athens. Eventually 300 of the raiders were captured by 85 Confederate cavalrymen and held briefly at the University of Georgia before being sent to Andersonville Prison.
This unique trail system is very fortunate to have four professionally staffed welcome centers to assist visitors during their exploration of the Heartland of the Confederacy. One can begin the Heartland tours anywhere along the trail, but it is wise to take advantage of the wealth of travel information that the cities of Athens, Gainesville, Madison and Washington can offer. Maps, brochures and accommodations information is all at one's fingertips at the welcome centers. Each city and county is unique in charm, attractions and sightseeing adventures. To begin a journey along the Heartland of the Confederacy Civil War Trails,
browse our website, www.HeartlandoftheConfederacy.org
or contact 1-800-653-0603.
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