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Andersonville National Historic Site

Andersonville, GA

Historical
4 (4 reviews)

Where are we going?

Address: Cemetery Rd, Andersonville, GA 31711, USA How do we get there? Number: 229 924 0343
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Attractions Family Days Out
Attractions in Andersonville
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About this activity

Did you know that when the Civil War ended, that didn't mean the end of the struggle for some men?

Step back in time with the Andersonville National Historic Site in Georgia, which is now a memorial to all of American prisoners of war across history, but was once Camp Sumter military prison - one of the largest military prisons for Union soldiers during the entire Civil War. 

The prison existed for only 14 months, but during this time over 45,000 Union soldiers were forced to call it home. Of these 45,000, around 13,000 never made it out again.

It's a fascinating experience for the family to really explore another side to the Civil War that you might not know about.

Andersonville National Historic Site actually began as a stockade which was built around 18 months before the end of the war, with the sole purpose of holding Union prisoners which were captured by the Confederate soldiers.

Can you imagine the conditions that these men would have found themselves in? The camp was 26.5 acres, and designed for 10,000 men. At one time there were nearly 32,000 men - over three times what could fit! Many of them were starving, and wounded, and in horrific conditions.

Those 13,000 unfortunate men who died within the walls are now buried in a cemetery just outside the prison walls which you can explore also. It's an invaluable learning experience for the kids.

When you arrive at the Andersonville National Historic Site, why not start your experience at the National Prisoner of War Museum, which is also where the visitor center is. There are two films which can give kids an insight into the Civil War as well as the experiences of the POWs. There are some great artifacts within the exhibit that will bring the stories to life for the kids. 

You can explore the Andersonville National Cemetery and Camp Sumter with brochures and audio tours if you like.

History really has come to life! 

Activity location

Directions

Andersonville NHS is located in southwest Georgia. The park is approximately 12 miles north of Americus and 11 miles south of Montezuma on GA-49. No public transportation systems serve the park. The nearest bus depot is in Americus. The nearest airports are in Columbus, Macon, and Atlanta. Andersonville NHS is easily reached by motor vehicle:

From the north, via I-75: Follow I-75 south to Exit 135 (Perry). Head southwest on GA-224 from the interstate to Montezuma, approximately 20 miles. Just outside Montezuma, turn right on GA-26 and follow to the intersection of GA-49. Turn left on GA-49 and head south approximately 6 miles to Andersonville. The park entrance will be on the left.

From the south, via I-75: Follow I-75 north to Exit 101 (Cordele). Head west on US-280 from Cordele to Americus, approximately 30 miles. In Americus, turn right onto GA-49 and head north approximately 10 miles to Andersonville. The park entrance will be on the right, after passing the park exit and employee entrance.

From Columbus area: Follow GA-520/US-280 toward Cusseta. Turn left on GA-26 and head east to Buena Vista, approximately 16 miles. Continue on GA-26 to Ellaville, approximately 15 miles. In Ellaville, turn right onto US-19 then left onto GA-228. Follow GA-228 east to Andersonville, approximately 12 miles. In Andersonville, turn left on GA-49 and head north approximately 1 mile. The park entrance will be on the right.

From Albany area: Follow US-19 north toward Americus, approximately 36 miles. In Americus, turn right onto US-280 and continue east through downtown Americus to Tripp Street. Turn left on Tripp Street/GA-49 and head north approximately 10 miles to Andersonville. The park entrance will be on the right, after passing the park exit and employee entrance.

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How much does it cost?

Hilton

Adults

Free!

Hilton

Children

Free!

Hilton

Last Updates

2022

Andersonville National Historic Site FAQ’s

The NPS are dedicated to preserving this historic site, and telling the stories of prisoners of war.

Check out what events they have across the year, as well as what free guided tours might be on during the day of your visit. You won't want to miss out!

You can pick up great items in the visitor center to keep that education going at home!

It's a fascinating way for the kids to learn about history. Ranger led tours are available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays during the school year. Other times consider self-guided tours, but they offer programs for age groups

The museum is accessible to wheelchairs, and also has accessible restrooms. The prison area is on a sloping terrain, and may be difficult to reach in a wheelchair. The cemetery is accessible.

Some of the exhibits might have dim lighting to protect the artifacts

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