Georgia Natural Wonder #258 - Civil War - DeKalb County (7/17 to 7/21) - 1864

[Top Row Dawg]

Georgia Natural Wonder #258 - Civil War DeKalb County July 17th to July 21st, 1864

We still have all these Civil War Historical Markers to cover in our DeKalb County tangent. So even though we have a few more spots we could consider actual Natural Wonders, I am going ahead and cover the Civil War in DeKalb County so I can finish the Historical Markers. We have long since crossed the line of Battles of War being Natural Wonders.

Revolutionary War

#33 - Liberty County (Part 2) - Revolutionary War

#106 - Chatham County (Part 3) - Revolutionary War

#106 - Chatham County (Part 4) - Revolutionary War

#128 - Battle Kettle Creek - Wilkes County (Part 1)

#220 - Elijah Clark State Park - Elijah Clarke/John Dooly

War 1812

#219 - Battle of Fort Peter - Camden County Part 2)

In this post #219, I recounted all the incidents of War in Georgia, at least up to that post #219

Civil War

#133 - Marietta - Civil War (Part 3)

#137 - Kolb's Farm - Loop & Battle

#138 - Cheatham Hill (Dead Angle)

#140 - Johnston River Line - Shoupades - Smyrna

#144 - Roswell - Antebellum And Civil War

#155 - Allatoona Pass

#192 - Paulding County Civil War (Part 2)

#195 - Crawfish Springs - Battle Of Chickamauga (Part 1)

#196 - Black Pug's Yard - Battle of Chickamauga (Part 2)

Mostly about Battle, these two post.

#205 - Battle Kings Tanyard - Barrow County (Part 2)

#209 - Fort Tyler - West Point

#236 - Battle of Brown's Mill - Coweta County (Part 2)

#237 - Jefferson Davis Memorial Historic Site - Irwin Co

#246 - Battle Of Resaca

#247 - Octagon House - Resaca Cemetery - Gordon County (Part 3) 

OK back to the historical markers. I take great pleasure and pride in these markers as there are over 500 in the Atlanta area denoting this turbulent and formative time in American history. Lest we forget the fall of Atlanta helped preserve our country. That being said, those damn Yankees are strolling through DeKalb County and today's post attempts to tie together all the movements and Markers in sequential (a hodgepodge on geographical) order as they take place starting July 17th, 1864 through July 22, the Battle of Atlanta,



which we will cover in our next post since it mostly happened in DeKalb County.

July 12th, 1864 

Grant realized, and though he would keep trying, that it was unlikely that he would defeat Lee or take Richmond in the near future. That is why he had Halleck send a message to Sherman that it was up to him to achieve in Georgia what he, Grant, had failed to accomplish in Virginia. A war-winning victory or a victory that would cause the Northern people to believe that the war was being won. This meant that Sherman, not Grant, henceforth had the star role in the strategic drama of 1864. 


COUNCIL OF WAR HELD AT GENERAL WOOD'S HEADQUARTERS. "Gentleman, I intend to place this Army South West of Atlanta".

Even as Sherman moved to the center of the military stage, Johnston was about to be removed from it. Jefferson Davis was dismayed by Johnston's failure to try to defeat Sherman in an all-out battle, alarmed by his incessant retreats, and unconvinced by that general's explanation for both, namely that he was too heavily outnumbered either to attack Sherman successfully or to block his flanking moves.


Yankees across the Chattahoochee River.


Sherman kicked Johnston across the Hooch.

So General Hood replaced Johnston but we will cover all that in a future post when we get to Fulton County, where most of the River Crossings took place. We covered a lot of that history with (GNW #141) (GNW #142) (GNW #144). In early July, 1864, Union troops approached Roswell and discovered on their arrival that Confederates had burned the bridge over the Chattahoochee River.

On July 11, 1864 General G. M. Dodge began constructing a pontoon bridge over the Chattahoochee to replace the burned bridge. By July 13 the bridge was completed and General Dodge wrote “the skill and cheerful industry displayed by the men in building the bridge entitles them to much credit and proves that our gallant soldiers are equal to any and every emergency.” 





We pick up the action a week later with these actions actually in DeKalb County. Following the Historical Markers by date.

July 17th, 1864

McFurson not McFearson.
James B. McPherson's Divergent Line of March is in Dunwoody, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is at the intersection of Chamblee Dunwoody Road and Nandina Lane, on the right when traveling south. Photo in the direction of the old Providence Church. The Church is behind the large tree in the right background.

 
The view towards the west fork mentioned in the marker. The view towards Shallow Ford road (currently Shallowford Road). Chamblee Dunwoody Road becomes North Shallowford Road.


Grenville Mellen Dodge's 16th A.C. Camp on Nancy's Creek. Marker is in Atlanta, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in North Brookhaven. Marker is at the intersection of Ashford-Dunwoody Road and Harts Mill Road NE, on the right when traveling south on Ashford-Dunwoody Road. The Marker is located on the bank of Nancy Creek, at the entrance to Marist School (the extension of Harts Mill Road).

G.M. Dodge.
The brush behind and to the right of the marker is on the banks of Nancy Creek (as it is known today).

Garrard.
Kenner Garrard's Cavalry at Buchanan's Marker is in Doraville, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is at the intersection of Buford Highway (U.S. 23) and English Oak Drive, on the right when traveling north on Buford Highway.


Looking north on Buford Highway (US Highway 23). Looking south on Buford Highway (US Highway 23) toward Atlanta.


John A. Logan & Francis Preston Blair Jr. Camp Nancy's Creek Marker is in Dunwoody, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is on North Shallowford Road, 0.1 miles north of Cotillion, on the left when traveling south. Second image in 2012, after repairs and restoration.


Logan and Blair.

July 18th,1864


Union Soldiers camping in DeKalb County on July 18th. Wm. Johnston's Mill Marker is in Atlanta, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in Northeast Plaza. Marker is on Briarwood, 0.2 miles south of Buford Highway (Georgia Route 13), on the left when traveling south.


Wm. Johnston's Mill Marker. North Peachtree Creek - View upstream towards Old Williams Mill site.


The Samuel House Plantation Marker is near Atlanta, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in Ashford Park. Marker is on Peachtree Road (Georgia Route 141) 0 miles north of Ashford Dunwoody Road, on the right when traveling south.


The house is now the clubhouse of the private Peachtree Golf Club, and is difficult to see from the road.


Looking north on Peachtree Road toward the site of Fort Daniel, its original terminus, and south toward the Solomon Goodwin house, Fort Peachtree, and Atlanta.


Solomon Goodwin’s Res. Marker is on Peachtree Road (Georgia Route 141) 0.1 miles North Druid Hills Road, on the right when traveling north.


Looking northeast on Peachtree Road, toward the Samuel House Plantation and Old Cross Keys. Solomon Goodwin’s Residence, Built in 1831.

 
Old Cross Keys Marker is in Atlanta, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in North Brookhaven. Marker is at the intersection of Johnson Ferry Road NE and Donaldson Drive NE, on the left when traveling east on Johnson Ferry Road NE. The Marker is located in front of a small strip mall. Old Cross Keys Marker, located at a busy intersection.


Site: Blake’s Mill Marker is near Atlanta, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in Shallowford. Marker is on Shallowford Road, 0.1 miles south of Interstate 85, on the right when traveling south.


The Rainey Plantation Marker is in Chamblee, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is at the intersection of Chamblee Tucker Road and Shallowford Road, on the right when traveling east on Chamblee Tucker Road.


The view down the present day Shallowford Road (old Shallow Ford Road). The view down Chamblee-Tucker Road.


Yankees camping.


Logan’s 15th Corps & Garrard’s Cavalry is near Tucker, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is on Chamblee Tucker Road, 0 miles west of Pleasantdale Road, on the right when traveling west. 


Looking west on Chamblee-Tucker Road. Looking east on Chamblee-Tucker Road toward the intersection with Pleasantdale Road.


Browning's Court House Marker is in Tucker, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is on LaVista Road (State Road 8) 0.1 miles east of Fellowship Road, on the left when traveling west. 


Marker stands at a major intersection (looking west on LaVista Road at the Fellowship Road intersection). Looking east on LaVista Road, toward downtown Tucker.


Courthouse moved 1/2 mile down LaVista at old Tucker Elementary School.


Logan’s Corps Moves to Henderson’s Mill Marker is in Tucker, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is at the intersection of Lavista Road (Georgia Route 236) and Midvale Road, on the right when traveling west on Lavista Road.


Looking east on Lavista Road toward Tucker; Logan withdrew from Tucker along this road past the site of the marker. Looking east on Lavista Road toward Atlanta. Logan's withdrawal turned right (north) at this point.


Site: Henderson’s Mill Marker is in Atlanta, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in Northlake. Marker is on Henderson Mill Road, 0.1 miles south of Midvale Road, on the right when traveling north. The marker is at the exit of the St. Bede's Episcopal Church parking lot.


Looking northeast on Henderson Mill Road, with the exit from St. Bede's parking lot to the right. Looking southwest on Henderson Mill Road.


You know I looked and looked for the ruins of Henderson Mill, in person back in the day, and on line tonight, but all all I found was swamp and woods.


Garrard & Joseph Andrew Jackson Lightburn to Stone Mountain Marker is in Tucker, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is at the intersection of Fellowship Road (State Road 8) and Lawrenceville Highway (U.S. 29), on the right when traveling north on Fellowship Road.

  Lightburn.
Garrard's Cavalry at Stone Mtn. Depot Marker is in Stone Mountain, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is at the intersection of James B Rivers Memorial Drive and Silver Hill Road on James B Rivers Memorial Drive.


This view is towards the marker northeast up Silver Hill Road. The cemetery is to the left.


Stone Mountain Cemetery Forever Comrades Marker is in Stone Mountain, Georgia, in DeKalb County. Marker is on Cemetery Circle north of East Ponce de Leon Avenue, on the right when traveling north.


View of marker with grave markers of the Unknown Confederate soldiers in background.


Another nearby marker about the Confederate dead.


A 2007 obelisk honoring the Confederate dead buried here. 


The marker can be seen on the left, near the low wall.

Regarding Stone Mountain Cemetery. Over 200 Confederate veterans are buried here. The nearby massive monolith “Stone Mountain” was admired by the 27,000+ Federal soldiers in the “Left Wing” of Major General William T. Sherman’s army as they marched east from Atlanta on November 15 & 16, 1864.

July 19th, 1864

In becoming commander, Hood took on the task of stopping, or better still defeating, Sherman. How was he to do it? On July 19 his cavalry reported that McPherson and John McAllister Schofield were moving toward Decatur, six miles east of Atlanta, and that George Henry Thomas was beginning to cross Peachtree Creek, five miles north of the city. Thus a wide gap existed between the two wings of the Union army. Hood at once decided to exploit it. At a late-night conference with his top generals he outlined a plan whereby, come tomorrow, Joseph "Fighting Joe" Wheeler and Major General Benjamin Franklin Cheatham, who now headed Hood's former corps, would hold McPherson and Schofield in check while Hardee's and Stewart's Corps, under the operational command of William Joseph Hardee, attacked Thomas's forces and drove them back to the banks of the Chattahoochee and Peachtree Creek at the point where the latter flowed into the former, trapping and destroying them. Then the following day the whole Confederate army would fall upon and crush McPherson and Schofield.


Schofield and Hardee.


David Sloane Stanley &  Thomas John Wood March To Durand's Mill Marker is on Briarcliff Road NE (Georgia Route 42) 0.1 miles south of LaVista Road (Georgia Route 236), on the right when traveling south. 


This view is to the North at Briarcliff Road.


Stanley and Wood.


 Durand's Mill Marker is at the intersection of Old Briarcliff Road and Old Briarcliff Way, on the right when traveling north on Old Briarcliff Road. 


The South fork of Peachtree Creek is in the background.


4th A.C. at Durand's Mill Marker is at the intersection of Briarcliff Road (Georgia Route 42) and Old Briarcliff Road, on the right when traveling north on Briarcliff Road. 


4th A.C. at Durand's Mill Marker. View north down Old Briarcliff Road towards Durand's Mill.

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HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI,  In the Field, near Decatur, Ga., July 19, 1864.

General THOMAS:

I sent General Corse to you this morning to explain the various positions of the troops and to explain my wishes. I think you have too much of your force the other side of Nancy's Creek. One division would be ample there, and all the rest in a general line, with Buck Head as a center. Howard's corps should then feel to the left and cross the forks of the Peach Tree, toward Pea Vine Creek. I take it for granted all the main crossings of Peach Tree in that quarter are well covered, but can be turned by the left. We are across all the forks of the Peach Tree, and the head of Schofield's column is beyond the forks of the road leading to Decatur and Atlanta, where Powers' is on our map. The Atlanta road is a big one and about half a mile west of Powell's forks, the left to Atlanta six miles, and the right to Pace's Ferry. After crossing the Middle Fork, a main fork of the Peach Tree, General Schofield sent Colonel Hartsuff, of his staff, to feel down. He went to the crossing places of Peach Tree, approaching from the south, and was fired on from the bank supposed to be occupied by Howard, and had an orderly wounded. I have no doubt Howard can cross anywhere above the forks. I have seen an Atlanta paper of the 18th, containing Johnston's farewell order to his troops. From its tone and substance I infer he has been relieved by Jeff. Davis, who sent Bragg to Atlanta to bear the order. I also infer it is for the purpose of getting another command. Hood succeeds.

You must get across Peach Tree either by moving direct on Atlanta, or, if necessary, leave a force to watch the brigade in possession of the enemy and move by the left. This is very important, and at once, as we may have to fight all of Hood's from east of Atlanta. I prefer you should let Howard open the way at once along the Pace's Ferry and Decatur road, or any other in that direction. I will push for the occupation of Decatur and then west for Atlanta, till we know exactly what the artificial defenses are. I have already advised you that McPherson has taken the railroad between Decatur a Stone Mountain, and I except him and Schofield to make a junction in Decatur to-day, in which case I will move Schofield on the road from Powell's to Atlanta. Schofield reports that his skirmishers are just in the edge of Decatur-1,05 p. m. A paragraph in the Atlanta paper of yesterday says the people in Montgomery were in great apprehensions about a Yankee raid, and were rushing to arms for the defense of the city. That means Rousseau.

Yours,  SHERMAN,Major-General.

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 The 16th & 23d Corps March to Decatur Marker was at the intersection of North Druid Hills Road (Georgia Route 42) and Clairmont Road (Georgia Route 155), on the left when traveling east on North Druid Hills Road.

 
 Logan's 15th & Blair's 17th A.C. to Decatur Marker is at the intersection of Briarcliff Road and Henderson Mill Road, on the right when traveling south on Briarcliff Road.


The March to Decatur Marker is also at the intersection of Henderson Mill Road NE and Briarcliff Road NE, on the left on Henderson Mill Road NE. This marker is across the street from the Northlake Mall.

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HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, 

In the Field, at Sam. House's, July 19, 1864-1 a. m.

General McPHERSON:

DEAR GENERAL: I have just received your report and papers, and have read them all. The breaking the road is all right. Now we must look after Joe Johnston. Move to-day toward Decatur and co-operate with Schofield and Thomas. Schofield's advance is across Peach Tree, on the direct road to Decatur, and met little opposition. We will develop their plans to-morrow. Schofield will move early, and Thomas will press for the front. I will be near Peach Tree Creek, where the Cross (Old) Keys road crosses by a ford and bridge, which is being repaired. You had better approach Decatur from the northeast; the Lawrenceville road seems to fulfill the conditions. I will see you about Decatur to-day.

Yours, truly,  SHERMAN, Major-General.

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 Federal Left Wing to Decatur Marker is at the intersection of Lawrenceville Highway (U.S. 29) and Montreal Road, on the right when traveling west on Lawrenceville Highway.


Looking west, with Lawrenceville Highway (US 29) on the left and Montreal Road to the right.


Still under siege.


Swanton house and Marker is is on West Trinity Place 0.1 miles east of West Ponce De Leon Avenue, on the right when traveling east.


 Dodge's & Blair's Columns Separate Marker is at the intersection of Shallowford Road NE and Briarcliff Road NE, on the right on Shallowford Road NE.


This view is North West down Shallowford Road. This would be the direction from which the two brigades arrived.


View South down Briarcliff Road. The direction taken by Dodge's brigade, south down Briarcliff Road towards Oak Grove and Clairmont Roads. Lavista Road runs roughly parallel with Briarcliff Road a mile to the South East. Oak Grove Road connects Briarcliff and LaVista Roads.


View East on Briarcliff Road. This is the direction taken by Blair's brigade East towards Henderson Mill Road.

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HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, 

Buck Head, Ga., July 19, 1864-9.30 a. m.
Brigadier-General WHIPPLE: Chief of Staff:

After my previous note the enemy opened on General Wood with artillery. General Stanley made a reconnaissance on the Decatur road. He finds the bridge across the North Fork burning and very little force to oppose him. General Newton sent a regiment on the intermediate road to a point near the mouth of North fork and finds infantry with works about to the extent of a brigade. I have directed General Stanley to put a force across North Fork if possible, and to secure and repair the bridge. The crossing at General Wood's position is the most difficult of any, and I think impracticable with any considerable force on the other side.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,  O. O. HOWARD, Major-General.

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 Site: Judge James Paden House: Gen. Jacob Dolson Cox, Jr. H'dq'rs Marker is on Clifton Road NE 0.1 miles north of North Decatur Road, on the left when traveling north.


Camping and Cox.

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HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, July 19, 1864-7 p. m.
General THOMAS:

GENERAL: I have this moment received yours of 3.30, and am very glad to hear that Howard has the means to cross over to Schofield in case of need. We have had some skirmishing and abundant evidence that the whole of the rebel army is about Atlanta. The fortifications lie mostly behind the Chattahoochee and Peach Tree, and my brief is we can approach from the east with certainly of getting within cannon reach of the town, in which case it cannot be held; but to push Schofield and McPherson on the place without a certainty of your being able to effect a junction would be extra hazardous. Schofield is on a road leading from Doctor Powell's directly to Atlanta. McPherson has a corps in Decatur and the balance just northeast. Some of the enemy's cavalry retreated east. Garrard has gone east to break railroad. I am near Doctor Powell's Before I issue my orders I want to hear that you command is where it can take part in the battle if offered outside of Atlanta. If Hood fights behind forts close to the town, I will swing in between Atlanta and the river; but if he fight outside, we must accept battle. Please to-night give me the fullest description according to the official map.

Yours, truly,  W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General.

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Site: J. Oliver Powell House. Sherman's H'dq'rs Marker is on Clairmont Road (Georgia Route 155) half a mile north of N. Decatur Road, on the right when traveling south. This is the view from across Clairmont Avenue, looking West.


General Sherman's Head-Quarters, near Decatur, July 19,1864 - Sketched by T.E. Davis. (J. Powell House and Office, as per Hardman Marker below).


The Hardman Family Cemetery Marker is in Decatur, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in Druid Hills. Marker is on Starvine Way, 0.3 miles west of Clairmont Road (U.S. 23), on the right when traveling west. Located within Emory University. Emory University acquired the cemetery property as part of the purchase of an aging apartment complex in 1986.


View from marker towards Hardman Cemetery. Part of the Hardman Family Cemetery

July 20th,1864

Meanwhile to the west side of Atlanta, General Thomas troops are crossing Peachtree Creek where most of the fighting took place today. Part of Sherman's force, the Army of the Cumberland commanded by Gen. George Thomas, was tasked with advancing on Atlanta from the north while the other two federal armies approached the city from the east and northeast. With Howard's IV Corps at Powers' Ferry, Hooker's XX Corps at Paces' Ferry, and Palmer's XIV Corps below it at Vinings, Thomas' Army of the Cumberland of nearly 60,000 men, or about 20,000 in each corps, was posted along a six-mile front.


Can see the Outer Defense line above the Main Atlanta Defense Circle.

Although the main action today was the Battle of Peachtree Creek, plenty of activity was taking place back east where McPherson and Schofield had their two thirds of Sherman's troops.


Old Williams Mill Rd. Marker is in Atlanta, Georgia, in Fulton County. It is in Atkins Park. Marker is at the intersection of Briaicliff Road (U.S. 23) and St. Augustine Place, on the right when traveling north on Briaicliff Road. The marker is in heavy shrubbery and extremely difficult to see from the street.


Taken from the churchyard side of the hedge. Looking south from the churchyard side of the hedge; cars are on Briarcliff Road.


Closing the Gap Marker is on Briarcliff Road (Georgia Route 42) 0.1 miles north of University Drive, on the right when traveling south. Briarcliff Road in the direction of North Decatur Road intersection.


Stanley's & Wood's Sector Marker is at the intersection of Lenox Road NE and Johnson Road NE, on the left when traveling south on Lenox Road NE. The marker is in the small park in the median at the intersection of the two roads.


Looking northeast at the median and park; Johnson Road is to the right. Looking northwest at the median and park; Lenox Road is to the left


Looking south; the marker can barely be seen to the left in the landscaping. Johnson Road is to the left, and North Decatur Road is in the distance, at the traffic signal.

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HDQRS. FOURTH ARMY CORPS, INSPECTOR'S OFFICE, Near Durand's Mill, on Peach Tree Creek (South Fork), Ga., July 20, 1864.
Colonel MENDENHALL, Assistant Inspector-General, Dept. of the Cumberland:

COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the divisions of Stanley and Wood crossed the South Fork of Peach Tree Creek to-day near Durand's Mill, and are now in position, with the left upon the Atlanta road and the right near the mouth of South Fork Peach Tree Creek. General Newton occupies the position taken by General Wood yesterday, south of the creek on the main Buck Head and Atlanta road, having gained some ground All have had some hard fighting with the enemy's infantry and artillery. Stanley connects with General Schofield on his left, and Wood connects with King on the right. Just after dark Grose's brigade captured 42 prisoners, among them a captain belonging to Stevenson's division, Cheatham's corps (Hood's). Gibson's brigade crossed the south fork of the creek after sunset, and forms Wood's extreme right, near the junction of the two forks. Please mention this latter to General Thomas, as it was not so reported in General Howard's communication.

Respectfully, C. H. HOWARD, Lieutenant-Colonel and Assistant Inspector-General.

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Cheatham's Salient Marker was at the intersection of North Highland Avenue and Zimmer Drive, on the left when traveling south on North Highland Avenue. This view is down North Highland Road, south east, towards Atlanta. This would have been the interior of the defense line for Cheatham's troops.


Cheatham and Gresham as Secretary of State under Grover Cleveland.


Walter Quintin Gresham's Division Marker is on Memorial Drive SE (County Route 154) 0.1 miles east of Memorial Terrace SE, on the left when traveling west. Right next to McPherson's Last Ride a few day's later.

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HDQRS. DEPARTMENT AND ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE, In Field, July 20, 1864-8.45 p. m.
Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding Military Div., of the Mississippi:

GENERAL: We have had some pretty lively skirmishing and have driven the enemy from several pretty strong positions, though I do not think there has been much of anything but cavalry in front of us on the left. But they have had four pieces of artillery and are armed with short Enfield rifles, making if difficult at times to dislodge them. 

Brigadier-General Gresham, commanding Fourth Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, was wounded in the leg below the knee by a minnie-ball, which shattered the bone, I am afraid he will lose his leg. I have assigned Brigadier General Giles A. Smith to the command of the division. 

You will see from the sketch that my left (Blair's command) is in lot 207, and the line runs nearly north, the right breaking to the rear slightly to connect with General Schofield. General Garrard's headquarters are in Decatur and his command is so disposed as to cover our rear and line of communications back to Roswell. Our losses have been comparatively light.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,  JAS. B. McPHERSON, Major-General.

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 Garrard's Cavalry Raid Marker is located on grounds of the Old Courthouse in Decatur.

The failure to drive Thomas into the Chattahoochee disappointed but did not discourage Hood: Sherman's army remained divided and hence vulnerable. Learning that McPherson's left flank was exposed, he decided to attack him. Sherman had sent off the cavalry that should have been screening McPherson to raid the railroad between Atlanta and Augusta.  Hood on the night of July 21 sent Hardee's Corps and Wheeler's cavalry swinging around that flank with orders to march to Decatur, then in the morning to pounce on McPherson from the rear, routing his forces and opening the way for Cheatham's troops to join with Hardee's and Wheeler's in doing the same to the rest of the Union army east of Atlanta.


Wheeler Delays Blair Marker is at the intersection of Hosea L WIlliams Dr SE and Clay St NE, on the left when traveling west on Hosea L WIlliams Dr SE.

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NEAR ATLANTA, July 21, 1864.
Honorable J. A. SEDDON, Richmond, Va.:

This morning the enemy attacked Cleburne's division, of Hardee's corps, and a portion of General Wheeler's cavalry, upon our extreme right, but were handsomely repulsed. Colonel Adams, Thirty-third Alabama, was killed.

J. B. HOOD.

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Fighting Joe.
Wheeler's Cav. Intrenched Marker is at the intersection of Moreland Avenue and Interstate 20, on the right when traveling south on Moreland Avenue. 


This marker was originally erected in DeKalb County, which is just on the other side of Moreland Avenue. You see, Leggett's Hill encompasses this whole exit off I-20.

July 21st, 1864

The day after the Battle of Peachtree Creek there were few troop movements or historical Markers for that date in DeKalb County. 

 
We did find the July 21st Sweeny's Division Encamped Marker on McLendon Avenue NE 0.1 miles east of Candler Park Drive NE, on the right when traveling west.


Marker and Sweeny.

Hardee's Night March

Failing to break the Federal line at Peachtree Creek, Hood withdrew his forces to the city from which he sent Hardee's A. C. against the Federal troops in East Atlanta, July 21. The night was hot, the roads dusty, and Hardee's soldiers already were half-exhausted from two days of fighting and marching, having spent July 21 holding the Federals east of Atlanta in check. Soon it became apparent that they could not hope to reach Decatur by morning. Hood thereupon, at Hardee's request, modified his plan: Wheeler would proceed to Decatur, where McPherson's wagon train reportedly was parked, but Hardee would attack as soon as he got beyond McPherson's flank.



Hardee's Night March Marker is at the intersection of McDonough Boulevard and Henry Thomas Drive, on the left when traveling west on McDonough Boulevard. Although this marker is technically not in DeKalb County, I include it here for the context of Hardee's Night March.

Orders for Cleburne, part of Hood's Corps.

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HEADQUARTERS HARDEE'S CORPS, July 21, 1864-7.30 p. m.
Major-General CLEBURNE:

GENERAL: At dark you will withdraw your division within the city defenses. You will not take position on the line, but will bivouac your troops, with your left to the right (looking from Atlanta) of the railroad. Your skirmishers will be left out, and will accompany your present line of defenses. It is proper to inform you that Cheatham's corps will also withdraw into the city defenses. The general enjoins watchfulness upon your skirmishers. By direction of Lieutenant-General Hardee, your division will move at 1 o'clock tonight on the road which will be indicated by the guide. Your skirmishers will be left on the line you occupied today.

By command of Lieutenant-General Hardee:
T. B. ROY,Assistant Adjutant-General.

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July 22nd,1864

Hardee in DeKalb County now, it's becoming July 22nd now, 1864.


 Hardee's March Turned N.E. on Fayetteville Road Marker was on Fayetteville Road 0.1 miles south of Fleetwood Drive, on the right when traveling north. Looking North East towards Intrenchment Creek. Marker missing now.


Hardee at Road Fork Marker is at the intersection of Fayetteville Road and Bouldercrest Road, in the median on Fayetteville Road.


View up Bouldercrest Road towards Glenwood Avenue and Leggett's Hill. View down Fayetteville Road.

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HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, July 21, 1864-1 a. m.
General McPHERSON, Army of the Tennessee:

GENERAL: I have yours of 8.45 last evening and regret much the wound which will deprive us of the services of General Gresham. I was in hopes you could have made a closer approach to Atlanta yesterday, as I was satisfied you had a less force and more inferior works than will be revealed by daylight, if, as I suppose, Hood propose to hold Atlanta to the death. All afternoon heavy and desperate sallies were made against Thomas, all along his lines from left to right, particularly heavy against Newton and Geary, but in every instance he was roughly handled; considerable firing has been going on all night along Howard's lines, and still continues. Tomorrow I propose to press along the whole line, and try to advance Thomas, so that we will command the Chattahoochee's east bank, and contact our lines by diminishing the circle. I think tomorrow Hood will draw from his left and re-enforce his right. Nevertheless, I deem it necessary that you should gain ground so that your artillery can reach the town easily; say within 1,000 yards of the inner or main lines. I have ordered Garrard to send to Roswell his wagons and impediments and push rapidly and boldly on the bridges across the Yellow River and Ulcofauhachee, near Covington, to be gone two days. Giver orders that in the meantime no trains come up you from Roswell. He will substantially cover the road back because all the cavalry in that direction will be driven away, still seem squads might be left about Stone Mountain, as he will take the direct road from Decatur to Covington, passing considerably south of Stone Mountain. 

Order you ordnance wagons and those that you may have left about Decatur up to your immediate rear. I will ride over to Thomas tomorrow morning and would like to hear from you before starting. If at any time you see signs of retreat on the part of the enemy follow up with all possible vigor, keeping to the left or south of Atlanta and following roads that will keep you on that flank. If Hood was as roughly handled by Thomas this afternoon as reported, and in addition the little artillery he has displayed today, I would not be astonished to find him off in the morning, but I see no signs looking that way yet. In case he retreats it will be toward Macon, whither all the advance stores have been sent, and most of the provisions. I want him pursued vigorously for a couple of days.

Yours, truly,  W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.

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Hardee at Wm. Cobb’s House Marker is near Atlanta, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in Gresham Park. Marker is on Key Road, 0.4 miles north of Bouldercrest Rd SE, on the left when traveling north.


 Site: Cobb's Mill Marker is on Key Road 0.4 miles north of Woodsman Way, on the right when traveling west.


Both markers are at the entrance to the water plant on Key Road at the bridge over Intrenchment Creek.

Blog Commentary from Google Searches

And with all due respect Hardee was no Stonewall Jackson. IMO Hardee never completely enveloped/turned McPhersons flank. Hardee was ordered to start the march about dusk and detach his corps from the main body of the army. He was ordered to go far as Decatur (a six mile march) if needed to turn the flank. Hood stated that Hardee's left never got much farther than a gun shot from the main body line. Maybe Hardee did not march far enough to completely envelope/turn the flank. It really seems to me that for what ever reason Hardee did not want to detach his corps too far from the main line. Hardee had Wheeler and the cavalry on his far flank. Hardee had limited success but he wound up actually attacking the federal breastworks. He attacked the retired wing of their flank. Sherman even said that he was very concerned by the sound of artillery back toward Decatur. Those were actually Wheelers guns. Hardee was ordered to attack at daylight and as you mentioned the attack was late because they were not in position. Hardee had at most a six mile march with an escort from cavalry over familiar roads. He did not go that far but still was very late. I don't blame Hood for this one, IMO Hardee performed poorly.

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IN THE FIELD, July 21, 1864-3 p. m.
Major-General SHERMAN, Commanding:

GENERAL: Brigadier-General Leggett, commanding Third Division, Seventeenth Army Corps, advanced his lines and captured a hill, quite a commanding position, this forenoon; also, some 60 prisoners, principally from Cleburne's division. General Leggett is on my extreme left. The Fourth Division (late Gresham's) made a demonstration at the same time in favor of Leggett, and the loss in the two divisions is between 260 and 300 killed and wounded. 

The hill is two and a quarter miles from Atlanta, and a portion of the enemy's works around the town are in view. The enemy made one vigorous and two feeble attempts to recapture the hill, but were signally repulsed. Since that time he has been moving troops in the direction of our left. General Leggett reports having seen at least ten regiments of infantry passing in that direction. 

I have strengthened that portion of the line with all the available troops I have got, and I will simply remark in closing, that I have no cavalry as a body of observation on my flank, and that the whole rebel army, except Georgia militia, is not in front of the Army of the Cumberland.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,  JAS. B. McPHERSON,Major-General.

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The Rebels were in position to flank McPherson. This was McPherson's last report, he dies tomorrow. The Union troops had moved into position east of Atlanta for tomorrow's action……

Wheeler Calvary Decatur

We are going to be busy with the Battle of Atlanta tomorrow on our next post, so let's get in Wheeler's semi-success in Decatur tomorrow, today. Wheeler had taken the Fayetteville Road while Hardee's column took the Flat Shoals Road toward McPherson's position. When Confederate General John B. Hood planned the Battle of Atlanta, his cavalry, under Major General Joseph Wheeler, was directed to attack the wagon trains of General McPherson's army. Decatur became a strategic site in Sherman's Atlanta Campaign. In July 1864, Major-General James McPherson occupied the town to cut off the Confederates' supply line from Augusta. These wagons carrying vital supplies were still located in Decatur. They were guarded by Union Colonel John Wilson Sprague's brigade.



During the U.S. Civil War, Union troops first occupied Decatur in July 1864. An 1864 map of Decatur shows Union trenches along East College Avenue, from South Columbia to Adams Street, just south of the railroad tracks. This gave the Union troops strategic control of the rail line. On July 22nd, General Wheeler's dismounted Cavalrymen deployed south of the railroad (about four blocks to the south) and drove Colonel Sprague's command north to the courthouse. 


 Sprague's brigade at Decatur, Georgia.


Wheeler's Cavalry at Decatur Marker is on the Courthouse Square. Outnumbered and attacked on three sides, Sprague was forced to withdraw about one mile north to present-day North Decatur Road, and Decatur Cemetery. The Federals fled Decatur in a stampede but managed to save the ordnance and supply trains.


 This marker also found on DeKalb County Courthouse Square.  Wheeler captured a Federal battery with officers and men. 


Old DeKalb County Courthouse Marker is in Decatur, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in Downtown Decatur. Marker can be reached from West Court Square south of West Ponce de Leon Avenue. Located on south side of Old Courthouse.


Marker can be seen, from its rear side, in front of the basement door on the left of building. View of marker towards recently removed 1908 Civil War monument.

Wheeler, although he took Decatur, failed to capture McPherson's wagon train, which escaped along with most of the Federals defending the place. With the failure of Hardee's assault, Wheeler was in no position to hold Decatur and fell back into Atlanta that night to rejoin Hardee at Battle of Atlanta.


Map shows how Yankees driven from Decatur back to cemetery. Union account of action, During the Battle of Atlanta on July 22, 1864, at a subsidiary action near Decatur, Georgia, Sprague masterfully conducted a delaying action under heavy enemy fire and received praise from his superiors. With only a small command, he defeated an overwhelming Confederate force and saved the entire ordnance and supply trains of the XV, XVI, XVII, and XX corps.

Sprague and medal.
His Medal of Honor Citation: With a small command defeated an overwhelming force of the enemy and saved the trains of the corps.


July 22, 1864 Marker is in Decatur, Georgia, in DeKalb County. It is in Glennwood Estates. Marker is on Commerce Drive (Route 155) 0.1 miles east of North Candler Street, on the right when traveling west. The marker is mounted on the right gatepost of the Historic Decatur Cemetery. 


The marker for the Historic Decatur Cemetery can be seen inside the gateposts. Hmm, Sprague got a Medal of Honor after retreating from Decatur and having 225 troops taken prisoner? Agnes Lee ladies honoring Col John Smith “Jack” Prather V.

Alright, that pretty much covers all the Civil War activity in DeKalb County other than the Battle of Atlanta on July 22nd, 1864. We covered 50 more Historical Markers from the 17th of July through the 21st of July. If it weren't for Historical Markers, most of this would be lost. Struggling for a theme for today's GNW Gals, so why not Charlotte McKinney and Kate Upton enjoying some Hardees in tribute to General Hardee.