There aren’t many places in Knoxville today reminiscent of the Battle of Fort Sanders. The fort itself disappeared long ago, unless you count the neighborhood and hospital that later assumed its name. There’s Bleak House, of course, Gen. Longstreet’s headquarters. Where a Rebel sharpshooter (sniper) mortally wounded Union cavalryman Gen. William P. Sanders. His death was how the fort got its name.

And the place where he died also is still standing and said to be haunted. Then known as the Lamar Hotel, now better known as the Bijou Theater, an old vaudeville venue. Sanders’ commander Gen. Burnside was there when he died and later sent word to his Rebel sweetheart Sue Boyd. Events which figure in the novel.