As it turns out, not all of the cannons hanging out on Lookout Mountain just sit in the park and look cool. At least one cannon up there is functional.
This Fourth of July, round up the family and try something a little different by attending a special artillery demonstration at Point Park. After all, who needs fireworks when you’ve got heavy weaponry? The dull pop! of a firework seems somewhat tame when compared to the earth-trembling BOOM of antique Civil War artillery.
Living historians will demonstrate the awesome power of a reproduction nineteenth-century cannon while also discussing some of the historical aspects of the grisly battles fought in the area in 1836. Participants will hear what it was like for artillerists to prep, load, and fire these cannons into the beautiful valley below them.
Each demonstration will last about 30 minutes, and is free for those 15 and under. Those 16 and older need only pay $3 to enter the park, which means the only smoke you’ll be smelling should be coming from the cannon—not your wallet.
For specific demonstration times, call (423) 821-7786 or head to the Lookout Mountain Battlefield between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Whether you’re going for the history or the cannons, this is sure to be a Fourth of July the family will never forget.