Camp Boone Supporters Have 90 Days To Raise Money, Get Info
August 2004

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - Local preservationists are scrambling to find primary materials related to Camp Boone, the Orphan Brigade recruiting and mustering camp, and raise funds for an archaeological survey.

County commissioners recently voted 20-1 for a 90-day delay before they decide on a petition to rezone some 30 acres where the camp is thought to have been. At the same meeting they approved rezoning to allow development of about 16 acres of the site, which is north of Clarksville on U.S. 70.

The Regional Planning Commission had recommended approval of the rezoning request should there be no objection by the public. When the county commissioners held their informal hearing the Tennessee State Archaeologist and many local supporters attended the meeting.

Clarksville attorney Cleo Hogan said, "The time given us is little. We must proceed with all haste to get a proper archaeological survey done to know exactly where the camp was."

"From the historical documentation that has been found, we are almost certain that we will find evidence for the site right where they have petitioned for the rezoning," said Steven B.G. Stewart, Chief Curator of the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center in Clarksville. "Local amateur archaeologists have been finding Civil War items there for years."

Greg Biggs, president of the Clarksville Civil War Round Table, said, "We need to get dozens of supporters there to help save this historic site. We need about $10,000 to pay for the survey and we need it fast."

A county preservation group was set up to oversee the effort and accept donations. Checks payable to the Arts & Heritage Development Council-Camp Boone Fund may be sent to P.O. Box 555, Clarksville TN 37041

Several heritage groups and the Customs House Museum are cooperating to create a Civil War driving tour that will include the sites of training camps, forts, battles, historic homes and cemeteries. Camp Boone is to be a pivotal part of the tour.

For information call Stewart at (931) 648-5780.