Civil War Historical Roadside Marker: Villanow

Civil War Historical Roadside Marker: Villanow

Location:

N 34º 40.422 W 085 º 06.898
Intersection of US 136 and GA 201
Villanow, Walker County, Georgia

Inscription:

Villanow

Ante-bellum cross-settlements: name taken from Jane Porters novel: “Thaddeus of Warsaw.” May 7, 1864, Kilpatrick’s Cav., having crossed Taylor’s Ridge at Nickajack Gap, moved to Gordon’s Springs where it was joined by Ireland’s Brigade (Geary’s Div., 20th AC). May 8, these troops moved to Villanow to meet and support McPherson’s forces (USA Flag) moving east from Ship’s and Gordon’s Spring Gaps in Taylor’s Ridge. McPherson’s troops reached Villanow at noon & continued east to Snake Creek Gap – a surprise move to outflank Johnston’s forces (CSA Flag) at Dalton. The seizure of Snake Creek Gap was effected while Geary’s Div. (20th AC USA Flag) attacked Dug Gap.

Date Visited and/or Photographed: November 22, 2009.

The accompanying photograph is the Villanow General Store. The store fronts the road to Subligna and stands directly across US 136 from the Historical Marker. According to locals the store was established in 1840, so it was standing when the troops passed this way. Sadly, the store has recently ceased operations. I have been in the store several times over the years. The store housed an impressive array of Civil War relics dug from the ground surrounding the store.

This place represents a strategically and logistically important location in the early stages of the Atlanta Campaign.