Reliving Pioneer History at Old Stone Fort National Park

Native American historians could never pass up a visit to the Old Stone Fort Archaeological Park in Manchester, Tennessee. Never a fort to begin with, this park is actually an ancient Indian ceremonial ground. It is a mysterious part of Tennessee history. No one knew the reasons for the mounds of soil covering the stone walls of the park. Theories came and went and the place was even thought to be haunted until early 1960's when extensive archaeological digs began to take place. Even now we don't know very much about the reason for the grounds or the goings on there.

The park has a small museum to educate visitors on what we have figured out about the mysterious grounds. Films, artifacts and authentic relics are used in several displays to show the areas history. It was first built in the prehistoric Middle Woodland Age. A diorama is available to demonstrate how the walls were built and what they are made of. Artifacts point to the area being used as a ceremonial ground for more than 500 years. It was a very significant place to the local Indians.

Surrounding the museum are many trails and the Little Duck River. The Hiking trail is clear and mostly easy but there are a few rough spots along the way. Following the marked signs along the 1 ½ mile trail your able to see the mounds of the ceremonial grounds. Information plates describe the specific site significance and interesting facts. There is also an entrance to an old stage coach road from the 1800's. This was the main route traveled into Manchester. It was also in this era that there were several paper mills in this area. You can see the fallen remains of paper mills along the trail and view their old photographs and history in the museum.

Other than the mysterious ceremonial mounds, paper mills and scenery the park also has several popular waterfalls and swimming holes. There is a campground, picnic area and playground here as well. The nine hole golf course is a popular attraction with its large oaks near every hole. Fishing and boating are encouraged. The RV camp sites are large and all have electric and water. There are two bath houses, one with shower stalls. The primitive camp sites are near the bath houses and have BBQ and fire pits.

The trip is a popular one for campers because of the wide variety of things to do and places to camp right here in the park. However, if camping isn't an option there are many nearby motels and lodging choices. The Jack Daniels Distillery is near by and Manchester is the home of several craft and antique fairs as well as the world famous Bonnaroo Music Festival.