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Andersonville National Historic SiteTheme(s): Civil War | |
Description:
Andersonville, or Camp Sumter as it was officially known, was one of the largest of many Confederate military prisons established during the Civil War. It was built early in 1864 after Confederate officials decided to move the large number of Federal prisoners kept in and around Richmond, Virginia, to a place of greater security and a more abundant food supply . During the 14 months the prison existed, more than 45,000 Union soldiers were confined here. Of these, almost 13,000 died from disease, poor sanitation, malnutrition, overcrowding, or exposure to the elements.
Today, Andersonville National Historic Site is the only park in the National Park System to serve as a memorial to all American prisoners of war throughout the nation's history. The 495-acre park consists of the historic prison site and the National Cemetery. Congress stated in the authorizing legislation that this park's purpose is "to provide an understanding of the overall prisoner of war story of the Civil War, to interpret the role of prisoner of war camps in history, to commemorate the sacrifice of Americans who lost their lives in such camps, and to preserve the monuments located within the site". In 1998 the National Prisoner of War Museum opened at Andersonville, dedicated to the men and women of this country who have suffered captivity. Their story is one of sacrifice and courage.
Designations:
National Historic Site (October 16, 1970)
Accessibility:
The National Prisoner of War Museum is wheelchair accessible with a wheelchair available. Handicapped parking is available. The historic prison site area would not be easily maneuvered by someone with physical limitations.
Getting Around:
Personal vehicles, recreational vehicles, bicycles and buses are permitted within the park.
Activites:
Auto_Touring | Educational Programs | And more.
Facilities:
Visitor_Centers | Picnic Areas | Museum Exhibits | Tours & Guided Activities | And more.
Directions to Andersonville National Historic Site
Plane:
The nearest airports are in Columbus (east), Macon and Atlanta (north).
Car:
Andersonville National Historic Site is located 10 miles north of Americus, Georgia on GA Route 49.
Public Transportation
The nearest bus depot is located approximately 10 miles from the park in Americus, Georgia.
Attractions:
Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites
Phone:800-864-7275
Nearby Parks:
Jimmy Carter National Historic Site (22 miles)
Ocmulgee National Monument (61 miles)
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Contact Information for Andersonville National Historic Site
Andersonville National Historic Site
496 Cemetery Road
Andersonville, GA
31711
Phone: 229-924-0343
Fax: 229-928-9640
Located in Andersonville, GA
For more information on Andersonville National Historic Site
Information on this page provided by the NPS.
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