Jefferson Davis’ Heritage Trail & Sherman’s March to the Sea

In 1865, Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederate States of America, fled south from Richmond, VA, and his path of flight led him and his entourage through Washington County. Visitors to Washington County can visit Davis’ encampment site just outside Warthen. While in Washington County, Davis’ entourage stopped to perform the final duties of the Confederate treasury. 

Washington County is the only county in the state where the paths of both Sherman’s army and Davis’ fleeing group crossed. This trail is a part of the Civil War Heritage Trail.