JEFFERSON DAVIS MEMORIAL STATE PARK
When Confederate President Jefferson Davis and a few remaining staff members crossed the Savannah River into Georgia on May 3, 1865, they were headed for the Western theater of war where Davis planned to unite rebel forces and continue fighting for the ?lost cause.? On May 9, 1865, they camped in this pine forest, not knowing that pursuit was so close behind. At dawn, they were surrounded by two independent groups of Union cavalry who were unaware of each other?s presence. Gunfire ensued until the federal forces realized they had been shooting at one another. Two Union cavalrymen died during the skirmish. Davis was taken prisoner and held in Virginia for two years until released. Today, a monument marks the spot where he was arrested. Visitors can tour the 13-acre historic site that includes a museum, short trail, a gift shop, picnic tables and a group shelter.
Jefferson Davis Memorial State Park is located near Fitzgerald, Tifton
Jefferson Davis Memorial State Park offers picnic tables and grills for visitors. There's also a pavilion available for larger gatherings.
1/3 mileEasyEstimated Time: 20 Minutes
This short nature walk takes you on a relaxing stroll around the site. Our nature trail is unique because not only is the trail full of wildlife, the trail is actually full of history. Part of the trail is the original county road, which ran through the present day site, during the Civil War. This part of the trail is the road, which Davis and his party entered and made camp on, the night of his capture. The trail offers great opportunity to view the site?s 47 different species of birds, and is also dotted with native wildlife and plant identification signs. At the end of the trail an elevated boardwalk, will give visitors the experience of viewing a south Georgia swamp?s ecosystem, which is full of wetland plants and many interesting creatures!