Austin Cemetery

Austin Cemetery Area

     Notes of Ethan Geer: This area has much historical significance as it lies in the middle of the battlefield for the control of the Tunnel Hill train tunnel. The Clisby Austin house still stands nearby with a historical marker. Clisby Austin House- 400yds. S.E. at the big spring, is the brick residence known as the Austin House. May 7, 1864. The federal forces, having seized Tunnel Hill-- their first movement in the campaign for Atlanta-- Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman had headquarters at Austin House, until May 12. Sherman learned that McPherson's forces had failed to cut R.R. at Resaca, after seizing Snake Creek Gap-- May 9, where upon the attempts at Rocky Face, Crow Valley, and Mill Creek Gap, were dropped and all Federal units but A.C. Stoneman's and Mc Cook's Cav. were shifted May 12, to the Resaca front via Villanova and Snake Creek Gap. A few notes - Gen. Sherman was not the only general to stay here. During the battle of Chickamauga Gen. John Bell Hood would be severely wounded in the right leg causing amputation. He was so severely ill that he and his leg were sent to Tunnel Hill and the Clisby Austin house to either recover or be buried together. He did live and his leg was buried somewhere on the property but I don't know of an exact location. The Tunnel Hill Historical society now cares for the Austin Place and the nearby train tunnel which both were recently opened as a park. Directions Exit I-75 at Dalton/Rocky Face exit, travel north approximately 5 miles as you reach Tunnel Hill turn Right on to Oak st. then Right on to Clisby Austin Rd. Historical Society will be on your left, Austin House in the distance will be on your right.