Wilson's Headquarters & Camp Historical Marker
Discover a pivotal Civil War site where General Wilson massed his cavalry before a campaign that led to the capture of Jefferson Davis and the end of the Confederacy near Waterloo, Alabama.
Wilson's Headquarters & Camp Historical Marker commemorates a significant site in Civil War history. In the winter of 1865, Major General James Harrison Wilson assembled the largest cavalry force ever massed in the Western Hemisphere here, totaling 22,000 men. The troops camped from Gravelly Springs westward to Waterloo. Wilson established his headquarters at the nearby Houston Plantation. From this location, Wilson's cavalry crossed the Tennessee River and launched an invasion into South Alabama and Georgia, which included the burning of the University of Alabama and the capture of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Today, the marker stands as a reminder of the area's role in the Civil War and the events that shaped the nation. It's a quiet, reflective spot offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history, nestled in the serene landscape of rural Alabama.
A brief summary to Wilson's Headquarters & Camp Historical Marker
- Waterloo, Alabama, 35677, US
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Edith Newman Culver Memorial Museum in Waterloo to delve deeper into local history and see Civil War relics.
- Take a scenic drive along County Road 14 to appreciate the rural landscape and imagine the vast military encampment that once occupied the area.
- Visit Pickwick Lake, a short drive from the marker, for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities after exploring the historical site.
Getting There
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Driving
From Florence, Alabama, take County Road 14 (also known as Waterloo Road) west towards Waterloo. The historical marker is located on County Road 14 near the intersection with County Road 2, approximately halfway between Florence and Waterloo. Look for the marker on the right side of the road when traveling west. There is no dedicated parking area, but it is possible to pull over safely on the shoulder of the road. Exercise caution when pulling over and departing from your vehicle. The marker is free to visit.
Discover more about Wilson's Headquarters & Camp Historical Marker
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wilson's Headquarters & Camp Historical Marker
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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