By the time of the Civil War, Carthage had become the major port above Nashville on the upper Cumberland River.  Because railroads did not reach Carthage during this period, steamboats provided the primary long range transportation capability for the town (indeed, the river continued in this role until the early 20th century).  Carthage was most accessible from Nashville during the winter and spring months when water levels were relatively high.  Above Carthage, the Cumberland and its tributaries were even less navigable during the drier months of the year.

During the war, Federal gunboats patrolled the Cumberland River as far as Carthage, although they focused most of their efforts on the river downstream from Nashville.

  River Ports and Shipyards

Last update:  September 16, 2001