Upgrades, and two relocations, are on the way for the Civil War Trails markers in Warren County. 

McMinnville’s Tourism Development Board currently oversees the Civil War Trails markers. They connect Warren County to a driving tour of Civil War sites across five states. The sites are well-known and less-familiar places associated with America’s greatest battle. More than 1,500 markers exist. 

According to TDB administrator Dayron Deaton-Owens, three pedestals need new markers and those have been received.

“We have three markers to replace. We exchanged the first one, located at the courthouse, today,” said Deaton-Owens. 

“Occupation of McMinnville: Conflict on the Home Front” was exchanged with a new marker due to its worn condition. Signage content and pedestals remains the same.

“Replacing the worn markers is phase one of the Civil War Trails,” said Deaton-Owens. “We have been working with Heritage Alliance and its president Cody Prince to research and see where the story leads us with two that we are moving.”

Slated for relocation: “Raiders’ Target” which pertains to the occupation of McMinnville and the engagement of Rebel Hill. It was placed at Warren County Middle School. 

“Lion of Ben Lomond” which pertains to Gen. Benjamin Jefferson Hill (1825-1880). It was placed at the courthouse and stands next to the “Occupation of McMinnville” marker. 

Reasons given for relocation: Having two side-by-side isn’t ideal for a driving tour that should take tourists from place to place, and Warren County School System’s construction of a security fence around the middle school has restricted access to that marker. 

“If you can’t visit it, you can’t see it,” said Deaton-Owens. “We are working on exploring stories and determining good spots for relocation of those markers.”

There are five Civil War Trails markers in Warren County. In addition to the three mentioned above, “Industry and Railroad” is located at Pepper Branch Park and “Saltpeter Mining in Cumberland Caverns” is located at the cave.