We decided to take a little fall getaway last week and headed to Land Between the Lakes for a few days. The weather was perfect for our stay on Kentucky Lake in TN.
We thoroughly enjoyed visiting The Homeplace 1850s Working Farm and Living Museum while in Dover, TN. Established to mimic how this farm appeared in its day, there are nearly 20 authentic buildings containing a blend of both antique and replica contents. There are two farmhouses, a few barns, a blacksmithing shed, a smokehouse, etc. Gardens and farm animals complete the grounds. Interpreters, dressed in period clothing, explain the tasks they're performing while assuming the roles of characters from that timeframe.
Apple slices and peanuts were being dried on the porch.
This pig was a real ham and kept playing with a rock he found.We asked the nearby woodworker about it and he replied that these pigs are particularly curious and playful and even fetch!
Some women docents were spinning yarn and sewing quilt squares out on the porch. They were also taking advantage of the sunny autumn day to air-out the bedding and their beautiful quilts.
Apple slices and peanuts were being dried on the porch.
The livestock breeds are the same as those raised in 1850.
This pig was a real ham and kept playing with a rock he found.We asked the nearby woodworker about it and he replied that these pigs are particularly curious and playful and even fetch!
Being located between the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers yielded rich farmland and also enabled the farmers of the region to easily send their crops and animals to market.
Stepping back in time is right up our alley. If you're ever in the area, we highly recommend going to The Homeplace!
Another interesting visit was the Civil War stop of Fort Donelson on the Cumberland River. The Confederates had beautiful vantage points up and down the river, yet were overwhelmed by U.S. Grant's Union forces. That opened up a hole in the north part of the Confederate line, which allowed the Union access through Nashville and beyond. It was the first major victory for the Union in 1862, occurring on Valentine's Day.
The cannons are authentic, although the bases are replicas.
Standing on these quiet, peaceful banks makes it hard to imagine that once fierce battles raged in this very spot.
Have you been to Land Between the Lakes? If so, where did you stay and what did you do?
Fort Donelson