Haunted Fort Donelson in Dover, Tennessee

 The site of Fort Donelson is located in Dover, TN. During the time of the Civil War, it was a very important strategic site for the Confederacy. During early 1862, there was much rejoicing in the South, as the Confederacy seemed unbeatable on the battlefield. The military genius of Robert E. Lee, Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson, Johnston, and others continued to outwit anyone the Union could find to lead their army. 

                                                                            
There was much celebrating in Fort Donelson as well. Most of the soldiers positioned there were enjoying very good living conditions when compared to most others. At nights, the soldiers would cheer, and you could hear so-called "rebel yells" all over the countryside. The soldiers told stories about home, and engaged in snowball fights. All these good times were coming to an end, however. In February 1862, Fort Henry fell to the Union, and it was only a matter of time before the Union made their way to Fort Donelson. The Union forces managed to sneak past Confederate positions unchecked. Soon they arrived at Fort Donelson, where the fighting began.

The battle of Fort Donelson was tragic, just as any war is. The battle lasted from February 13, until February 16, 1862, and it ended with an unconditional surrender of the Confederate forces to Union Gen. US Grant. With the fall of Fort Donelson, the Confederacy lost control of southern Kentucky, and much of Middle and West Tennessee. The lost was a devastating blow to the Confederacy, one which they would not be able to recover from. The Union would continue to wear down the South.
Today, Fort Donelson is a very solemn place. It's difficult to visit it and not be overwhelmed by the events that occurred here 140 years ago. Thousands of lives were lost on both sides, and many of the bodies were never found. It is said that the ghosts of these long dead soldiers still walk the lands of Fort Donelson, and gunshots, marching, and cannon fire can sometimes be heard. The initial joy and jubilation isn't lost either. It's said that loud rebel yells and celebrations from the pre-battle weeks can still be heard. Of course, this would be much more uplifting than the misery of war.

Not far from the battlefield, and near the National Cemetery is the Crow Home, now a bed and breakfast. During the war, it was used as a hospital. Not surprisingly, it's also said to boast some resident spooks, mostly those of injured soldiers, and of doctors and nurses who worked feverishly with very little equipment to save lives. Soft voices are also heard in the home.
One of the more bizarre incidents reported in the area is that of a ghostly river! According to reports, there is a little traveled road near the area in which you have to pass through a nonexistent river! You can see and hear it, but if you walk into it's waters, you will not get wet. Very strange, even by paranormal standards.