Volunteers needed to clean up Tennessee battlefields and historic sites
Published March 23, 2023

American Battlefield Trust’s 27th annual Park Day encourages volunteers nationwide to uplift historic sites on April 15

TENNESSEE -- Volunteers throughout Tennessee are teaming up with the American Battlefield Trust to perform “spring cleaning” by way of maintenance and restoration of five Volunteer State battlefields and historic sites during the 27th annual Park Day. A nationwide, hands-on preservation event, Park Day provides an avenue to refresh these storied locations just in time for the busy tourist season. Over the years, the event has attracted volunteers of all ages and abilities bound by their dedication to community and the uplifting of our American heritage.

Park Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 15, 2023, but as sites consider weather and local public health guidelines, they may choose to participate in the event on an alternative date. Tennessee volunteers will be joined by participants across 26 states. Volunteers will receive reusable Trust water bottles, and some sites will provide lunch or refreshments. A local historian may also be present to discuss the unique role of the site in our national story. Tennessee volunteers interested in participating in Park Day are encouraged to contact the individual sites listed below.

Fort Pillow State Historic Park, Henning, 9:00 am
Contact: Tyson Weller at tysonweller@tn.gov
Volunteers will help clean up debris around the 1861 Earthworks. The history and significance of Fort Pillow will be discussed throughout the day. Participants are asked to bring gloves and water.

Mabry-Hazen House, Knoxville, 9:00 am
Contact: Patrick Hollis at director@mabryhazen.com
Volunteers will help with mulching, removal of invasive plants, washing the historic house, gardening, and general spring-cleaning. A local historian will be on site sharing the historical significance of the site. Participants are encouraged to bring rakes, pitchforks and tarps. (Note: This event takes place Saturday, April 8, 2023)

Mossy Creek Battlefield at Glenmore Mansion, Jefferson City, 10:00 am
Contact: Susie Jarnagin at tennsusie@gmail.com
Volunteers will help with gardening, trimming, and general maintenance. Historians will be present to discuss the historic mansion. Participants are encouraged to bring gloves and gardening tools; water and snacks will be provided.

Parker’s Crossroads Battlefield, Wildersville, 9:00 am
Contact: Jim Weaver at jnweaver@bellsouth.net
Volunteers will help clean up the grounds and scout camp, as well as prepare the garden. A video about the battlefield will be shown during the event. Participants are encouraged to bring rakes and gloves. Water and donuts will be provided at registration.

Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center, Chattanooga, 9:00 am
Contact: Paige Powell at paige@reflectionriding.org
Volunteers will help with trail maintenance and help remove invasive species from the grounds. A naturalist hike will be offered on the day, with a historical hike planned for May 6th. Participants are encouraged to bring closed-toed shoes, long pants and reusable water bottles.

For a complete list of participating Park Day sites and more information, visit www.battlefields.org/parkday. Volunteers can share their Park Day participation online using #ParkDay2023.

It is asked that anyone who has experienced any COVID-19 symptoms in the two weeks prior to their Park Day event refrain from participating. For any questions regarding weather policies, rain dates, and COVID-19 considerations, the American Battlefield Trust recommends that volunteers contact their site of interest.

The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today. The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 56,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War across 155 sites in 25 states. Learn more at www.battlefields.org.