Tannenbaum Historic Park

Step Back into Revolutionary History

Tucked right beside the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, Tannenbaum Historic Park preserves a piece of America's fight for independence. This is where the Battle of Guilford Courthouse unfolded on March 15, 1781, a pivotal moment that helped shape America's future.

At the heart of the park stands a recreation of the Hoskins Farm, which played no small role in the battle. Imagine British troops under Lord Cornwallis, forming their battle lines across this 150-acre farm before clashing with American forces led by General Nathanael Greene. History happened right here, under your feet.

A Glimpse of 18th Century Living

Wandering around the park, you'll encounter reconstructed buildings that transport you back to 1781. The Hoskins House, a charming chestnut log dwelling measuring 24 by 18 feet, represents the main attraction. Carefully restored in the mid-1980s, this late 18th or early 19th century home features an enclosed interior staircase and an exterior stone chimney that speaks to the craftsmanship of the era.

Nearby stands the Coble Barn, a spacious double-pen log structure from around 1830 that was relocated and restored in 1987. While these buildings are typically viewable from the outside, you can often peek through windows to glimpse period furnishings and equipment that paint a picture of daily colonial life.

Colonial Farm Life Reimagined

The park brings colonial farm life into focus. Period-appropriate gardens dot the landscape, making it easier to imagine what daily existence was like during Revolutionary times. As you stroll the grounds, you can find interpretive panels that tell the story of the farm's role in the historic battle and everyday colonial living.

If you bump into a park ranger, don't hesitate to strike up a conversation - they're knowledgeable about the site's historical significance.

Learning Through Living History

More than just preserved buildings, Tannenbaum is a living classroom. The park regularly hosts educational events where history comes alive through demonstrations of colonial-era crafts, cooking techniques, and farming practices.

Occasionally, you might even catch historical reenactments on the very ground where Generals Greene and Cornwallis once led their troops into battle. These events offer a connection to a defining chapter in American history, showing the Revolutionary War's impact on the southern colonies.

Planning Your Visit

Tannenbaum Historic Park offers a peaceful retreat with walking trails that connect to the broader network at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. If you're thinking about making a day of it, you'll come across two picnic tables meant for an outdoor lunch.

The park is well-maintained with plenty of parking (including accessible spaces), and your four-legged friends are welcome to join you on the trails. Just remember that there are no public restrooms on site - you'll need to head over to the nearby Guilford Courthouse National Military Park for those facilities.

If you're a history buff or simply looking for a tranquil spot to explore America's past, Tannenbaum Historic Park provides a glimpse into Revolutionary-era history.