Depot Days- On Saturday. March 21, 2026 @ L&N Train Station
| Take a trip back in time at the historic L&N Train Station for Depot Days: American War Stories, a poignant tribute to the brave soldiers who departed from this very depot to serve our nation. This immersive event brings history to life with reenactors dressed in authentic 19th- and 20th-century uniforms, showcasing the evolving eras of American wartime farewells. Experience the emotional weight of soldiers boarding trains, recreating heartfelt goodbyes as they left for conflicts spanning the Civil War to Vietnam. Explore military displays, and storytelling sessions that highlight the courage and sacrifice of those who answered the call of duty. The clatter of the station’s platform will transport you to a time when this depot was the gateway to the front lines. Join the Friends of Ft. Defiance on March 21st from 10am-3pm for a day of remembrance, education, and community, honoring the legacy of our soldiers and the historic role of this iconic train station. |
Homeschool Day @ Ft. Defiance April 10th, 2026
| Join park staff and volunteers for our first Homeschool Heritage Day April 10 from 10 am-1 pm to learn about the 18th and 19th century in Tennessee. Tour the Fort Defiance Interpretive Center, watch the movie “Crossroads of Change”, get a guided tour of the original earthworks and Sevier Station. Volunteers will be on hand to demonstrate many period activities such as laundry, calligraphy, weaponry, and medical care. This event is free, but we do ask that participants register in advance for one of 2 sessions. |
March to the Past @ Ft. Defiance May 9th, 2026
| March to the Past invites visitors to step into the 19th century for a full day of living history at the Fort Defiance Interpretive Center. Presented by the Friends of Fort Defiance, this special event brings Civil War–era history to life through immersive demonstrations and hands-on experiences provided by the Friends of Ft. Defiance. Guests can explore period camp life, observe musket and artillery firings, learn about historical cooking methods, and enjoy interactive activities designed especially for children. Throughout the day, staff and volunteers will share stories and insights that highlight Tennessee’s past in engaging and meaningful ways. |
Civil War Day Camp – The interpreters at Fort Defiance are excited to offer a day camp for children 10-13 years-old. Participants will learn more about the Civil War as our interpreters discuss many topics related to Tennessee History. Each day will cover a different topic/theme and will include a variety of activities from making hardtack, writing with a quill pen, and learning soldiering drills from our reenactors. Cost is $45.00 person person. Click HERE to register for this event.
Sevier Day at Fort Defiance September 12, 2026 10am-3pm
| Bring the whole family and step back in time at Fort Defiance Civil War Park and Interpretive Center during Sevier Day.This free, family-friendly event celebrates Clarksville’s frontier heritage with hands-on activities, living history demonstrations, and fun for all ages. Guests can meet Native American and frontier reenactors, watch a blacksmith shape iron at the forge, explore a frontier camp, and experience flintlock musket demonstrations throughout the day. Kids and families can discover what life was like for early settlers while enjoying interactive learning and outdoor fun in a historic setting.Come ready to explore, learn, and make memories at one of Fort Defiance’s favorite annual events. |
Book Signing – David Wright October 24, 2026 @ Fort Defiance from 1pm-3pm
Civil War era Christmas – Come celebrate Christmas as folks did in the 1860s in Clarksville, TN on Saturday, December 14th from 3p-4:30p at Ft. Defiance Civil War Park and Interpretive Center. You must register for this event. This event costs $5.00. Click on the link below to register.