The Tennessee Civil War Preservation Association (TCWPA) recognizes leaders from across the state for work in their communities to protect and interpret our Civil War sites. Both of this year’s leaders reflect the outstanding commitment to preservation efforts in Middle Tennessee.
During TCWPA’s Annual Members Meeting in March 2024, President Anthony Hodges presented the 2024 Mary Ann Peckham / Robert A Ragland award to Mike Hoover and Bob Ireland, both of Franklin, TN.
Mike Hoover was recognized for his outstanding leadership in the preservation of Spring Hill Historical Cemetery. Hodges reflected, “Because of Mike’s work, the cemetery has been restored to a dignified and reverent site. His documentation has assisted dozens of descendants and students seeking information on those who lay there. He continues to speak to many local civic groups raising the public profile of the cemetery. Even though the cemetery isn’t a typical Civil War “battlefield” its importance to historic preservation related to Van Dorn, Forrest, Hood’s Tennessee campaign and Middle Tennessee civil war history cannot be overstated. It was certainly in the midst of the Battle of Spring Hill.” In recognition of Mike’s outstanding work, TCWPA provided a $500 grant to the Spring Hill Historical Cemetery for the continued preservation and interpretation of the site.
Bob Ireland was recognized for his collaboration and contribution to the Battlefield Assessment process and TCWPA’s Statewide Preservation Plan strategies. Bob has provided comprehensive assessments of Thomspon Station, West Harpeth, Little Harpeth, and Brentwood battlefields. Hodges reflected, “As a volunteer, Bob has provided well documented information about battlefields as supported with primary source material, maps, and relevant data to help assess the significance of these battlefield sites.” In recognition of Bob’s outstanding work, TCWPA provided a $500 grant for interpretive signage for Thompson’s Station.
“The Peckham / Ragland Award goes to a community member(s) who has made outstanding contributions to the preservation and interpretation of Tennessee’s Civil War battlefields or lesser-known sites,” TCWPA president Anthony Hodges said at the TCWPA Annual Members Meeting held in Franklin on March 9, 2024. For more information on TCWPA’s Statewide Preservation Plan and new interactive map visit www.tcwpa.org/preservation-plan.
For more information contact Patricia Gray, Director for Administrative Services, Tennessee Civil War Preservation Association, 615-389-6958 or patgray55@comcast.net.
