Attraction
Battle Of South Mills Driving Tour
After Union forces captured Roanoke Island in February 1862, the Northerners turned their attention inland. Among their targets was the Dismal Swamp Canal, which was an important supply artery to Confederates in the area and a potential “back door” to Norfolk. Union infantry unsuccessfully attacked Confederate forts protecting the canal near South Mills on April 19, 1862.
A self-guided driving tour brochure on the battle and the Civil War history of the canal is available at the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center or can be downloaded via the website.
The driving tour features two interpretive NC Civil War signs located at the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center and the South Mills Lock. Additional information and artifacts can be viewed at the Camden County Heritage Museum & Historic Jail.