As I drove the Natchez Trace Parkway, stopping at each marker to learn the history and see the sights, I was impressed by the depth of history of this ancient road. The Native American history is told pretty well, although it left me wanting to know more. Then the thoughts and stories of the European settlers who walked this trail for 500 miles back to their homes is amazing. Making 20-25 miles a day on foot, carrying gear and a heavy rifle for a month is no small feat. As travel increased, “stands” were built along the way for travelers to sleep and eat. Usually they were small, with many sleeping on the floor, but that’s still better than sleeping in the woods with no shelter from the rains or cold.
Talk about walking, the Trail of Tears crosses the Trace, and Native Americans were made to walk to Oklahoma. They had inadequate food or shelter, and many died along the way.
Rocky Springs is an abandoned 1790’s town where about a 2’616 people had lived and farmed. When and the poorly managed land gave out, it was abandoned. All that remains is a beautiful brick church built in 1836 that is still in use today.
There was a stop to view the “Sunken Trace”. You could easily see how bandits could have full advantage in this area.
don’t we have a beautiful country? For how much longer?
I am back home now, just trying to complete these posts before I forget 😊
Looks like a great spot! You need to get to OHIO to Hocking Hills dude. Great little hikes, waterfalls, and caves!!! Look forward to seeing you soon!
M
No doubt Mark. Your recent pictures from there were superb as always.