Today in History:

Guard Hill

Battle Name: Guard Hill
Other Names: Front Royal, Cedarville
State: Virginia
Location: Warren County
Campaign: Sheridan’s Shenandoah Valley Campaign (August-December 1864)
Dates: August 16, 1864
Principal Commanders: Brig. Gen. Wesley Merritt [US]; Lt. Gen. Richard Anderson [CS]
Forces Engaged: Divisions
Estimated Casualties: 550 total
Description: Kershaw’s infantry division and Fitzhugh Lee’s cavalry, under overall command of Lt. Gen. Richard Anderson (Army of Northern Virginia, I Corps) were sent from Petersburg to reinforce Early’s army in the Valley. At Front Royal on the August 16, Union cavalry of Brig. Gen. Wesley Merritt’s division surprised the Confederate columns in mid-stream of the Shenandoah River, capturing about 300. The Confederates rallied and advanced, gradually driving the two Union brigades back to Cedarville. After dark, Merritt withdrew to Ninevah.
Results: Inconclusive

Related Articles