Have you visited the Chickamauga Battlefield? One of the most well known features at the park is the Wilder Tower. And the best part is you can climb the stairs to the top during the warmer months.
History of the Wilder Tower
The Wilder Tower is also known by its full name, the Wilder Brigade Tower Monument. The Wilder Brigade are often credited for keeping the Union army alive in the Battle of Chickamauga. They were the first to arrive and the last to leave. Their fights kept the Confederates from completely obliterating the Union army.
The Wilder Tower was the first monument placed in the Chickamauga Battlefield. It was actually the idea of the remaining members of the brigade nearly 30 years after the battle. During their reunion meeting they agreed to raise money towards the construction of the tower monument. Over the course of seven years they worked to raise the funds and build the tower, despite financial hurdles. On September 20, 1899, the brigade held their second reunion in order to dedicate the completed monument and officially give it to the Chickamauga Battlefield National Military Park.
What is the Wilder Tower
The tower is made of limestone quarried from nearby the battlefield. It’s 105 feet from bottom to top of flag pole. The actual building is 85 feet tall. The square base is 19 feet long. And the round part of the tower goes from 10 feet in diameter to 9.6 nearest the top. Small windows were cut into the sides of the tower at each quarter interval. And the spiral staircase was not built until later after the dedication.
There are 136 steps that twist narrowly upward to reach the top of Wilder Tower. At the top you can see the rolling fields and woods of the battlefield as well as places in the distance, such as Lookout Mountain.
Tips for Climbing the Wilder Tower
The tower is only open for access between March 16th and November 31st. Outside of these dates, the iron gate is locked and you cannot go inside. This is why you should make a point to visit sometime during the summer so you can fully enjoy this neat monument.
I suggest bringing a flashlight or using the one built into your phone. The tiny windows that allow light into the Wilder Tower sometimes don’t let in enough. Be certain that you can see before proceeding.
Watch your head if you’re tall. The height between the staircase is rather short so be aware as you start your ascent. Stick to the outer edges where the steps are longer to ensure good footing and better headspace.
Be aware that at the top, wasps like to make nests. They never bothered us while we were there, but if you’re allergic you may want to proceed with caution.
The Deer of Chickamauga Battlefield
You can’t visit the Chickamauga Battlefield without looking for deer. It’s my number one place to see them. The park is home to over 700 deer. So your chances of spotting them are quite great, especially during feeding time. Go first thing in the morning after sunrise or later in the evening before sunset. These are the best times to potentially spot deer in larger numbers in the fields.
In Closing
Wilder Tower isn’t the only thing to do in this 5,300 acre park. For more information to plan your visit to the Chickamauga Battlefield, click HERE.
To view the souvenir book from the Wilder Tower dedication ceremony for more history about the monument, click HERE.
To watch the video tour of the Wilder Tower on IGTV, click HERE.
Tell me, have you made it to the top of this tower? It’s definitely a good climb. Until next week, enjoy Exploring Chatt!
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