Nestled along the Calf Killer River on Tennessee Highway 84 is a quaint little cemetery. Lying in rest here are heroes to some and villains to others. No matter what side of this debate you are on you still must understand that the soldiers buried here helped mold and change the history of not only the region but also the nation. 
Back in 2003 I read a book written by Thurman Sensing titled Champ Ferguson: Confederate Guerilla. Learning of this man’s story rekindled a fire inside me to learn about the terrible conflict between the states back in the 1860s. I’d kept this story in the back of my mind until I happened across this place while on a ride with some close friends. I wanted so badly to stop and visit but I knew that I needed to stop here alone.
One of only two men that didn’t receive a pardon for their actions during the War of Northern Aggression. Unfortunately I haven’t been able to find out who the other man was. I encourage you to dig deeper into this man’s story. 
Champ Ferguson isn’t the only Confederate soldier buried here. There are others here as well. Each one has a story. Each man fought for the country he believed in. Each one paid the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved.
Highway 84 aka Calf Killer Highway runs from Sparta, Tennessee up through Monterey, Tennessee. Should you ever get the chance ride this road. The scenery and curves will satisfy your needs. The history along this road will mystify you and cause you to wonder to a time long ago.
Get out and ride through some history!
Ride Safe,
Ronman
8 Comments
Thanks for the history, and the amazing pics.
Thanks B.B. Glad you enjoyed it.
Thanks Ron! I enjoyed reading your information and the pictures. I knew you were quite a historian, but didn’t realize how well you write until reading your description of “Champ Ferguson”.
See you soon!
Thanks Paul. Hopefully we’ll see some history on our ride this week.
Very interesting!!!!!!!
Have no idea about the mule. Champ and the other man were two legally hung.
Oh my god, what a great piece of riding road. How do I get there? Just seeing the pictures brings a huge smile to my face.
I enjoyed reading this post and it makes me want to go there and see it all.
This highway runs between Sparta Tennessee and Monterey Tennessee. Not hard to find at all.
Ronman