10-26-2024, 12:11 AM
(This post was last modified: 01-14-2025, 06:45 PM by Top Row Dawg.)
Aftermath Battle of Atlanta
July 23 1864
For the next four days both armies eyed each other like weary and wary wrestlers. The Confederates retreated back to their defense line around Atlanta.
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Atlanta Defenses and Batteries Map.
Notes from the Fourth Army Corps, by Lieut. Col. Joseph S. Fullerton.
In accordance with the foregoing orders the artillery of this corps has been firing on Atlanta during this afternoon, and the enemy has been replying from his forts. Our camps are in easy artillery range; also corps headquarters. 7 p. m., directed the division commanders to bring in the troops that they sent out last evening to establish alarm posts. Considerable skirmish today. Losses not reported; small, though. Day very cool for July . P. S.-About 18 killed and wounded today.
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View of a Confederate fort on Peachtree Street looking south toward the city of Atlanta.
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 1864-8 p. m.
Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army of the Ohio:
GENERAL: I have examined our line of circumvallation, and have no fear of the enemy even attempting to test its strength. But until we get our cavalry in hand and position, I will not attempt anything serious. You may therefore keep things statu quo, and look only to your supplies of food and ammunition. I have seen General Rousseau, and am satisfied he has made a break that cuts off Alabama for a month, and he has brought us in pretty fair condition some 2,500 additional cavalry.
I am, yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.
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Peachtree Street with Wagon Traffic - Atlanta, GA, 1864
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 1864-8 p. m.
Major General JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Army of the Tennessee:
GENERAL: I have this moment returned from an examination of our entire line. You know your own. The balance extends in a circle at about 1,000 yards distant from the enemy's lines, as far as Proctor's Creek, the whole of Palmer's corps being east and south of the railroad. All have covered their fronts with parapets so that the enemy will not attempt a sally. The question now is, What next? I will in person explain all that is necessary to produce the result aimed at as soon as General returns. You need not apprehend a renewal of the attack on the part of the enemy, but should, on the contrary, begin to feel out with skirmishers, and support into the woods east of Giles Smith's division and Dodge's corps. In the morning early let Woods' division move into Decatur, stay awhile, and return. Let details of men and pioneers begin at your very front and break up and destroy the railroad absolutely back to including Decatur. Until we conclude upon the best manner of reducing Atlanta we cannot be better employed than in rendering the Atlanta and Augusta road useless; especially have the iron rails heated and twisted. I want your skirmishers to feel out early to-morrow in front of Dodge for a double purpose- to hold on that flank the cavalry of Wheeler, while we operate on Thomas' flank and create a diversion for Garrard, now on his return from his expedition.
I am, with respect, your obedient servant,
W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.
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Atlanta, Georgia, October, 1864. Union pickets at rest on top of Confederate breast works southeast of Atlanta looking east to where the battle of July 22, 1864 began.
CAMP NEAR MILES NORTH OF ATLANTA, July 23, 1864-11 p. m.
Major T. T. ECKERT:
Enemy has been less active to-day, attacking only in front of Army of the Cumberland, and being engaged in burying dead on ground of yesterday's fight under flags of truce. General Logan commands Army of the Tennessee, and Morgan L. Smith takes the Fifteenth Corps. Our loss in yesterday's battle-of artillery, 8 guns; about 30 wagons, and 200 prisoners. As I write our heavy artillery is at work, and large fires are burning in Atlanta, supposed to be the enemy destroying stores preparatory to evacuating.
J. C. VAN DUZER,
Cipher Operator, U. S. Military Telegraph.
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Atlanta Intelligencer newspaper office by the railroad depot.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION,
Turner and Mason's Ferry Road, July 23, 1864-8.30 a. m.
Lieutenant D. F. HOW:
My command drove the rebels away from here this morning. The force in my front was Jackson's division. I got the report of effective force of one brigade, Harrison's, and it numbered 1, 618 men. So I judge the division is strong, which is confirmed by prisoners taken. I will open communication with General Davis as soon as possible. It is about a mile from here to the river. I sent the dispatch to General Stoneman across.
Very respectfully,
E. M. McCOOK, Brigadier-General, Commanding.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...rW9IuA--~B
Chevaux-De-Frise on Marietta Street, Photographic Wagons and Darkroom Beyond - Atlanta GA, 1864 Fort H.
Confederate letters today.
HEADQUARTERS, July 23, 1864.
His Excellency Governor BROWN:
The State troops under Major-General Smith fought with great gallantry in the action of yesterday.
J. B. HOOD, General.
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Confederate sappers constructed a number of artillery emplacements covering the avenues of approach to Atlanta. The artillery in this fortification overlooks Peachtree Street.
HEADQUARTERS, Macon, July 23, 1864.
General J. B. HOOD, Atlanta:
I am proud to hear of the gallant conduct of the State troops. Thousands of others have now assembled in response to my call, and will be armed and sent forward as rapidly as possible, who upon the soil of their beloved State will strike with equal valor for the defense of their wives and their children, their homes and their altars. I assure you of the most energetic co-operation with all the aid in my power. May God grant you success and aid to drive the invaders from the soil of the Confederacy.
JOSEPH E. BROWN, Governor of Georgia
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View on Decatur Street, Showing Trout House and Masonic Hall - Atlanta GA, 1864
JULY 23, 1864.
General WHEELER:
General hood wishes you to take what you think a sufficient force and pursue the raiding party you report as moving on the Covington road. You must leave a small force to observe General Hardee's right, and if necessary recall the brigade you were ordered to send to East Point.
Respectfully, W. W. MACKALL, Chief of Staff.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...w--~BUnion troops loading wagons during occupation of Atlanta.
July 24th 1864
Sherman placed Howard in command of the Army of the Tennessee, an act that so disgusted Hooker, who believed he was entitled to the post and who with good cause blamed Howard for his defeat at Chancellorsville, that he resigned as head of the XX Corps, which as a result came under the temporary command of Williams.
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Gen. William T. Sherman, Leaning on Breach of Gun, and Staff at Federal Fort No. 7 - Atlanta GA, 1864
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 1864-3 p. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
On making up reports and examining the field, I find the result of Hood's attack on our left more disastrous to the enemy than I reported. Our loss will not foot up 2,000 killed and wounded, whereas we have found over 1,000 rebels dead, which will make with the usual proportion of wounded, a loss to the enemy of full 7,000.
General Garrard has also returned, perfectly successfully, having completely destroyed the two large bridges near Covington, forty miles toward Augusta, brought in 200 prisoners and some good horses, and destroyed the public stores at Covington and Conyers, including 2,000 bales of cotton, a locomotive, and a train of cars. Our communications are yet all safe, and the army in good condition in all respects. As soon as my cavalry rests I propose to swing the Army of the Tennessee round by the right rapidly and interpose between Atlanta and Macon, the only line open to the enemy.
The sudden loss of McPherson was a heavy blow to me. I can hardly replace him, but must have a successor. After thinking over the whole matter, I prefer that Major General O. O. Howard be ordered to command the Army and Department of the Tennessee. If this meets the President's approval, notify me by telegraph, when I will put him in command, and name others to fill the vacancies created. Logan, as senior-commands the Army of the Tennessee for the present.
After we have taken Atlanta I will name officers who merit promotion. In the meantime, I request that the President will not give increased rank to any officer who has gone on leave from sickness, or cause other than wounds in battle.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...Sfg--~BGen. William T. Sherman on Horseback at Federal Fort No. 7 - Atlanta GA, 1864
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 1864.
General L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
GENERAL: It is my painful duty to report that Brigadier General James B. McPherson, U. S. Army, major-general of volunteers and commander of the Army of the Tennessee in the field, was killed by a shot from ambuscade about noon of yesterday. At the time of this fatal shot he was on horseback, placing his troops in position near the city of Atlanta, and was passing by a cross-road from a moving column toward the flank of troops that had already been established on the line.
He had quitted me but a few moments before and was his way to see in person to the execution of my orders. About the time of this sad event the enemy had sallied his entrenchments around Atlanta and had, by a circuit, got to the left and rear of this very line and had begun an attack which resulted in serious battle, so that General McPherson fell in battle, booted and spurred, as the gallant knight and gentleman should wish. Not his loss, but the country's, and the army will mourn his death and cherish his memory as that of one who, though comparatively young, had risen by his merit and ability to the command of one of the best armies the nation had called into existence to vindicate its honor and integrity.
History tells us of but few who so blended the grace and gentleness of the friends with the dignity, courage, faith, and manliness of the soldier. His public enemies, even the men who directed the fatal shot, never spoke or wrote of him without expressions of marked respect; those whom he commanded loved him even to idolatry, and I, his associate and commander, fail in words adequate to express my opinion of his great worth. I feel assured that every patriot in America on hearing this sad news will feel a sense of personal loss and the country generally will realize that we have lost not only an able military leader but a man who, had he survived, was qualified to heal the national strife which has been raised by ambitious and designing men. His body has been sent North in charge of Major Willard, Captain Steele and Gile, his personal staff.
I am, with great respect,
W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...JpBSeg--~B Fort G
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 24, 1864.
Major General JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Army of the Tennessee:
GENERAL: I have pretty well surveyed the whole position, and by the aid of maps and my own observations think I understand the case pretty well. Our lines are now strong in front, and we compass Atlanta from the railroad on the east to the railroad west. The enemy, having failed in his assault on your flank before it was covered by any defensible works, and having sustained most serious loss, will not again attempt it, but will await our action. I now inclose you a map made by General Schofield's engineers, which shows the road to your present right rear. I sent Captain Poe to see you this morning, but from what Captain Hickenlooper says I think I may have failed to convey to you my right meaning, which is this: The only object in placing the Army of the Tennessee on that flank was to reach and destroy the railroad from Atlanta toward Augusta. That is partially done, and the work of destruction should be continued as far as possible. I wish you to keep one division or more employed day and night in breaking and burning the road until General Garrard returns. I feel no doubt but that he has succeeded in breaking the bridges across the Yellow River and the Ulcofauhachee, but he may have to fight his way back, and to relieve him I wish you to push your skirmishers out from General Dodge's front of General Blair's left, as though you were going to push your way to the east of Atlanta toward the August road.
To keep up this delusion, you should send a column cautiously down one of those roads or valleys, southeast, and engage the enemy outside his works, but no behind his trenches. As soon as General Garrard is back you can discontinue all such demonstration and prepare for your next move. I proposed give you timely notice to send your wagons behind General Thomas and then to move your army behind the present to the extreme right, to reach, if possible, the Macon road, which you know to be the only road by which Atlanta can be supplied. This will leave General Schofield the left flank, which will be covered by the works he has constructed on his front, and he can use the abandoned trenches of the enemy to cover his left rear. You will no longer send your wagons by Roswell, but by Buck Head and Pace's Ferry, and when you change you will draw from the railroad bridge, to which our cars now run, and at which point we are making a pier bridge, as also two of pontoons.
General Stoneman will surely be at Decatur today, and we will have two divisions of cavalry on our right viz, General McCook's and [Colonel] Harrison's (General Rousseau's). Act with confidence. Know that the enemy cannot budge you from your present ground, and act offensively to show him that you dare him to the encounter. You can understand that being on the defensive he cannot afford to sally unless at great peril. General Schofield has so strengthened his front that I fell no uneasiness about that flank, and only study now to make the next move so quickly that we may reach East Point or vicinity with as little loss as possible. My headquarters are now behind General Howard's corps, General Newton's division, on the main Marietta and Atlanta road, which crosses the Chattahoochee at Pace's Ferry and passes through Buck Head. I am at a large white house near the enemy's old line of entrenchments, a prolongation of the same which passes from where I saw you yesterday by General Schofield's position. I have just heard that General Garrard is back. Go on breaking that railroad good.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.
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Sherman's men destroying a railroad in Atlanta.
ATLANTA, July 24, 1864.
Honorable J. A. SEDDON, Richmond, Va.:
All has been quiet to-day except a little picket-firing and occasional shells thrown into the city.
J. B. HOOD, General.
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Panoramic Atlanta.
July 25th 1864
Still a day in which things have settled down around Atlanta. The armies are in their respective trenches in some places only 1000 yards apart.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...-~BFederal Soldiers Relaxing by Guns of Captured Fort - Atlanta GA, 1864
Union reports from today.
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 25, 1864-8 a. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I find it difficult to make prompt report of results coupled with some data or information without occasionally making some mistakes. General McPherson's sudden death, and General Logan succeeding to the command, as it were, in the midst of battle, made some confusion on our extreme left, but it soon recovered and made sad have with the enemy, who had practiced one of his favorite games of attacking our left when in motion and before it had time to cover its weak end. After riding over the ground and hearing the varying statements of the actors on that flank, I directed General Logan to make me an official report of the actual results.
Though the number of dead rebels seems excessive, I am disposed to give full credit to the report that our loss, though only 3,521 killed, wounded, and missing, the enemy's dead alone on the field nearly equal that number, viz, 3,240. Happening at that point of the line when a flag of truce was sent in to ask permission for each party to bury its dead, I gave General Logan authority to permit a temporary truce on that flank alone, while our labors and fighting proceeded at all others. I also send you copy of General Garrard's report of the breaking of railroad toward Augusta. Now I am grouping my command to attack the Macon road, and with that view will intrench a strong line of circumvallation and flanks, so as to have as large an infantry column to co-operate as possible with all the cavalry to swing round to the south and east to control that road at or below East Point.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.
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Soldiers atop Fort H.
Confederate reports……………
ATLANTA, GA., July 25, 1864.
His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, Richmond, Va.:
The moral effect of our brilliant affair of the 22nd has been admirable on our troops, and I am happy to say our loss was small in comparison to the enemy's. He was badly defeated and completely failed in one of his bold flank movements, heretofore so successful. Lieutenant-General Lee will probably arrive tomorrow, when I may return to Montgomery to see General Maury and hear from General Smith.
BRAXTON BRAGG.
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View from inside Fort H
GENERAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF TENNESSEE, Numbers 7.
In the Field, July 25, 1864.
SOLDIERS: Experience has proved to you that safety in time of battle consists in getting into close quarters with your enemy. Guns and colors are the only unerring indications of victory. The valor of troops is easily estimated, too, by the number of these secured. If your enemy be allowed to continue the operation of flanking you out of position, our cause is in great peril. Your recent brilliant success proves the ability to prevent it. You have but to will it, and God will it, and God will grant us the victory your commander and your country expect.
J. B. HOOD, General.
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Atlanta defenses landscape photo with trenches.
SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ROSS Brigadier, JACKSON'S CAV. DIV., Numbers 15.
McGhee's Farm, Ga., July 25, 1864.
I. Officers on duty in front should not content themselves with merely observing if the enemy advance, but keep themselves informed of his movements, and report promptly whatever changes in his position or line occur during their tour of service. To this end, a few scouts should be kept constantly in front of the advanced vedettes and sufficiently near the enemy to observe his movements. The first duty of a picket commander, after his vedettes have been established, is to inform himself of the exact position of the enemy's vedettes and pickets, and to observe frequently during the day if they have been moved. Especially is it important to know early in the morning what changes may have taken place during the preceding night. It is therefore made the duty of each picket commander to forward very early each morning a report in writing of the exact position of the enemy, and what if any changes may have occurred since the evening before, and to report in person as soon as relieved at the expiration of his tour of service.
II. The officers and men are enjoined to arrest all persons attempting to pass through or about our lines, unless shielded by the proper written authority. It has been but a day or two since some members of the Legion, by their vigilance and prompt discharge of duty, did a most valuable service to our army and country by arresting one, who proved to be a Federal officer, escaped from prison and attempting to make his way to Yankee lines, with information which would have been of great importance to the enemy and might have injured us irreparably. We cannot be too vigilant. Uniforms and badges of rank are not sufficient passports, but all officers, as well as men, will be required to show their papers, and whenever the least doubt exists as to their authority to pass they will be arrested and sent to these headquarters.
By order of Brigadier-General Ross:
D. R. GURLEY, Assistant Adjutant-General.
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Men sitting on logs near Confederate Rifle Trenches.
July 26th 1864
Several command changes took place on the Confederate side, with the most important being the replacement of Cheatham as head of Hood's former corps by Lieutenant General Stephen D. Lee, a thirty-year-old West Pointer who had been placed in charge of Mississippi and Alabama when Polk went to Georgia.
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"Auction & Negro Sales," Whitehall Street
We start today with Confederate reports……….
ATLANTA, July 26, 1864.
Honorable J. A. SEDDON, Richmond:
No material change in affairs to-day. Lieutenant General S. D. Lee has reported and been assigned as ordered.
J. B. HOOD.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/c...gPalisades and chevaux de frise in front of the Potter (or Pondor) House, Atlanta, Georgia, 1864.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TENNESSEE, July 26, 1864-12 p.m.
Major-General WHEELER, Commanding Cavalry:
GENERAL: General Hood desires you to relieve General Hardee with your command, taking his position. You will move without delay, putting yourself in communication with him at once. You will leave a sufficient force on your right to give you certain information of the movements of the enemy, in case he should make any in that quarter, and to conceal, if possible, your withdrawal. General Hardee waits your movements.
Very respectfully,
F. A. SHOUP, Chief of Staff.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/c...ta1864.jpg Ponder House up by Georgia Tech.
One notable establishment destroyed by Union soldiers was the Potter (or Ponder) House, built in 1857 and owned by Ephraim G. Ponder, a holder of 65 slaves before the war. In the battle, it was used by Confederate sharpshooters until Union artillery inflicted heavy damage. It was never rebuilt. One of Ponder's slaves, Festus Flipper, was the father of Henry Ossian Flipper, who later became the first African American cadet to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point.
HDQRS. ROSS' BRIGADE, JACKSON'S CAVALRY DIVISION, July 26, 1864
Brigadier-General JACKSON, Commanding Division:
GENERAL: The enemy have advanced to the church at Turner's Ferry and drove my pickets back to within half a mile of Lick Skillet. They seem desirous of extending their line down the river. They are as far down as the Green's Ferry road. Their pickets hold Green's Ferry road at Glenn's house. Some cavalry still in sight on the opposite side of the river.
Captain Wright and Lieutenant McClatchey, who charged on one of the roads this evening with their companies, inform me that they ran over and captured within 200 yards of the enemy's works more of the enemy trying to escape on foot than they could take care of. Captain Wright turned them back to the rear as rapidly as possible, but they showed much reluctance to going, and just then the enemy opened with canister from their works, regardless of their own men in Captain Wright's possession, and all the prisoners fell on the ground and refused to run, whereupon Captain Wright and his men commenced killing them. They fired all their loads from pistols and guns into them and then retired for shelter from the artillery. Captain Wright killed 2 and Lieutenant McClatchey fired six rounds at them. A column of cavalry passed up the river on the opposite side this evening just before dark, going in direction of Turner's Ferry. My scouts think it a brigade. The enemy did not advance from their works. My pickets are where they stood this morning.
I am, general, very respectfully, &c.,
L. S. ROSS, Brigadier-General.
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Locomotive stranded on desecrated rail line.
Union reports………
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 26, 1864 - 9 p. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
Tomorrow we begin the move against Atlanta, having strongly trenched our front from the railroad east of Atlanta to hill on the south of Proctor's Creek. I move the whole Army of the Tennessee to the right, extending the line south, threatening East Point, and forcing, as I think, Hood to abandon Atlanta or allow us, at small cost, to occupy the railroad south of the town, that to the east being well destroyed. At the same time I send by the right a force of about 3,500 cavalry, under General McCook, and round by the left about 5,000 cavalry, under Stoneman, with orders to reach the railroad about Griffin. I also have consented that Stoneman (after he has executed this part of his plan), if he finds of feasible, may, with his division proper (about 2,000), go to Macon and attempt the release the release of our officers, prisoners there, and then to Andersonville to release the 20,000 of our men, prisoners there. This is probably more than he can accomplish, but it is worthy of determination effort. While these are in progress I will, with the main army, give employment to all of the rebel army still in Atlanta.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...rACnPw--~B Fort H
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, before Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864.
Major-General THOMAS and SCHOFIELD:
GENTLEMAN: As a part of the moment to-morrow I wish, while the cavalry is moving out, say at 6 a. m., and General Logan's troops shifting from left to right, that you send from some point of the front of each division in our line of circumvallation a bold party of about a regiment strong to push back the enemy's outlying pickets and feel their position. This will have the effect of holding them and drawing there as large a body of the enemy as possible, as he will on such a display. In as much as Jeff. C. Davis' division is placed as a strong right flank, and therefore will be almost entirely in reserve when the Army of the Tennessee gets to the right, I wish the demonstration to his front be still more decided,viz, a whole brigade should move on the ridge due south from the hill intrenched beyond Proctor's Creek, and should push back the enemy beyond any little rifle-pits to his main line, which will be found up on the main ridge which extends from Atlanta to East Point. This brigade should move toward the old village of White Hall, about two miles and a half from Atlanta. These demonstrations should proceed slowly and deliberately, and last all day, and should be as bold and provoking to the enemy as possible, tempting him to sally out and test our present lines.
I am, &c.,
W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...qLYH7A--~B
House in Atlanta no other information available.
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864.
To the Fourth Army Corps:
Having been assigned to another command, the duty, by no means a pleasant one, devolves upon me to take leave of a corps that I have learned to love and trust. The time of our service together has been short, but crowded with remarkable events. The words "Dalton," "Resaca," "Adairsville," "Kingston," "Cassville," "Dallas," "Kenesaw," "Smyrna Camp-Ground," and "Peach Tree Creek," suggest to us fields of conflict, more or less severe, where we have buried many and endeared comrade, where you have won honor for your country and yourselves, and where the enemy has learned anew to fear and respect the power of the Government for which we fight. It is with pain that I realize my inability to reward your cheerful devotion to duty, your arduous and prolonged labor, and your uncomplaining sacrifices. I heartily appreciate the constant co-operation of the division commanders, and the cheerful manner in which they have sustained me, and in which they have been sustained by their own officers. To them, and, through them to their commands, I tender my warmest thanks and unqualified commendation. No officer could have received more ready and untiring assistance from his staff than I have from mine. To them also I am more than grateful. Believing from my heart that our cause is right and just before God, as I take leave of your I commenced you to His blessing, and trust He will assist our armies to complete the work which He has enabled them so gloriously to bring to the present stage of success.
O. O. HOWARD, Major-General.
July 27th 1864
Early on the morning of July 27 Howard and the Army of the Tennessee began the movement that Sherman had planned to make before the July 22 battle - a swing around to the west side of Atlanta for the purpose of cutting the Macon railroad, Hood's sole remaining supply line.
HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864.
Lieutenant Colonel WILLIAM T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant-General, Dept. and Army of the Tennessee:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report, for the information of the major-general commanding, that in obedient to instructions from him I advanced the Third Division of this corps, immediately on its arrival, with instructions to proceed and take up position on General Dodge's right, and on the extension of the line occupied by his command. After a sharp skirmish, which made it necessary to advance slowly, it was found unavoidable to advance farther in consequence of the darkness and difficult nature of the ground. In consequence of the road being blocked up by wagons and artillery, the Fourth Division did not reach the vicinity of the position assigned it until almost dark.
It was, however, moved rapidly forward with the view to connect with the right of the Third Division; before reaching the Third Division, however, it became dark, and it was considered by the officer commanding the troops, as well as myself, to be entirely impracticable to advance farther. I therefore formed it in a strong position, the left resting on the rear of the right of the Third Division, and the right thrown back so as to form almost a right angle with the line occupied by that division, thereby securing my right flank and rear.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major-General.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...yjKl0A--~B West Side Siege Line Marker is at the intersection of Chappell Road and Rome Drive, on the right when traveling south on Chappell Road.
Inscription: Howard's Army of the Tenn. 3 corps), which had fought E. of Atlanta July 22, were shifted to this area West of the city, July 27, 28, 1864. Dodge's 16th and Blair's 17th A.C. were aligned along Chapel Rd. which, in 1864, led S.W. directly to Ezra Ch. (MOZLEY PARK), where the line was prolonged westward by the 15th corps. This shift of Federal forces was a thrust at the 2 railroads entering the city from the S.W. at East Point. After the Battle of Ezra Church, July 28, siege operations were pushed E. toward Atlanta by these troops, together with the 14th and 23d corps, which prolonged the line S. to the Campbellton Road.
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Davis' Hill Marker is at the intersection of Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway (U.S. 278) and Chappell Road, on the right when traveling west on Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway.
Inscription: The hill N. of the Chapel Rd. intersection was thus named after occupation & intrenching by Gen. J.C. Davis' 2d Div., 14th A.C., July 22, when the Army of the Cumberland [US] moved up from Peachtree Cr. to the siege line facing the N. sector of Atlanta's defenses. Davis' position here formed the Right of the siege until July 28. From this hill Sherman directed Howard (com'd'g. Army of the Tenn., vice McPherson deceased) to align his 3 corps -- the 15th, 16th, & 17th -- S. along Chapel Rd., facing E. The shift of these troops from the E. to the W. side of Atlanta, began a move upon the 2 remaining railroads.
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NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 27, 1864 - 8.30 p. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
My two cavalry expeditions are off to make a wide circuit and reach the Macon road well to the southeast of Atlanta, and the Army of the Tennessee is shifted to the extreme right, reaching well toward the railroad, so that I think tomorrow must develop something. The cavalry will have to fight the enemy's cavalry, and we can hold the infantry and artillery to Atlanta and force them to extend and choose between Atlanta and East Point. I don't think the enemy can hold both. All are well pleased with General Howard's appointment but Generals Logan and Hooker. The former though he ought to have been allowed the command of the army in the field until the end of the campaign; but I explained to him that a permanent department commander had to be appointed at once, as discharges, furloughs, and much detailed business could alone be done by a department commander. General Hooker is offended because he thinks he is entitled to the command. I must be honest and say he is not qualified or suited to it. He talks of quitting. If General Thomas recommends, I shall not object. He is not indispensable to our success. He is welcome to my place of the President awards, but I cannot name him to so important a command as the Army of the Tennessee. All is well. The enemy today offered no serious opposition to the changes of today, and our skirmishing and artillery were just enough to make things interesting.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.
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The Errant Line Marker was at the intersection of Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway (U.S. 278) and Elinor Place, on the right when traveling west on Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway.
Inscription: July 28, 1864. Anticipating a Confederate attack on the Right of the 15th A. C. [US], aligned W. of Ezra Ch., Sherman sent Davis' div. (14th A. C.), on a circuitous march W., so as to come in on Logan's Rt. via Lick Skillet (Adamsville) Road. Davis' troops, led by Gen. J, D. Morgan, marched toward the Chattahoochee, intending to reach Lick Skillet by a side road. Devoid of maps or guides, the column traversed a wilderness of forest & swamps until halted by Confederate cavalry & preemptory orders to return. Logan's 15th -- hard pressed by Hood's forces -- managed to hold on, aided by 12 regiments of the 16th & 17th A. C., aligned along Chapel Rd.
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HDQRS. 20TH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Near Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864.
Brigadier-General WHIPPLE:
SIR: I have just learned that Major-General Howard, my junior, has been assigned to the command of the Army of the Tennessee. If this is that case I request that I may be relieved from duty with this army. Justice and self-respect alike require my removal from an army in which rank and service are ignored. I should like to have my personal staff relieved with me.
JOSEPH HOOKER,
Major-General.
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Meanwhile the Confederate Army counters the Union move to the west side of Atlanta thus
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TENNESSEE, July 27, 1864-9 p. m.
Major-General WHEELER, Commanding Cavalry:
General Hood directs that you go yourself in pursuit of the enemy. Direct whoever you leave in command to report to General Hardee. Humes' division starts for Flat Rock to-night, and will there await your orders. General Ferguson's brigade will move to the right tonight.
Very respectfully,
F. A. SHOUP, Chief of Staff.
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JULY 27, 1864-1.30 p. m.
Lieutenant-General LEE:
As soon as relieved by General Hardee, General Hood directs that you move Brown's and Clayton's divisions to the left, under cover, so that the movement may not be observed by the enemy. Let these divisions rest in rear of the line between the Peach Tree and Marietta roads, and be in readiness to move at any moment. Supply them with sixty rounds of ammunition, if practicable. After making these dispositions please report in person to these headquarters. That part of Stevenson's division to the left of the Peach Tree road will not be withdrawn. Your left will rest near the Marietta road.
F. A. SHOUP.
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Lick Skillet Road Marker is on Martin Luther King Jr Drive SW (Georgia Route 139) 0.1 miles west of Anderson Avenue, on the left when traveling west. Looking west on Martin Luther King Jr Drive; West View Cemetery is on the left behind the fence.
Inscription: A winding dirt road of the 1860's which passed Ezra Ch. (S.E. cor. Mozley Park) & continued S.W. to Gordon Terrace, where it joined Gordon R. & ran westward to a cross-roads settlement called Lick Skillet, now known as Adamsville. The road, Mozley Drive, did not exist in 1864. Lick Skillet Road is cited frequently in reports, Confederate & Federal, as are 2 other landmarks of the battlefield: Ezra Church & the Alms House. The latter stood near the present Gate House of West View Cemetery. The battle of Ezra Ch. began with the advance of S. D. Lee's A.C. (deployed E. & W. of the Alms House), northward across Lick Skillet Road.
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JULY 27, 1864-4 p. m.
Lieutenant-General STEWART:
From present appearances the enemy is preparing to attack our left. Please have everybody on the alert and in readiness. As soon as Lee gets into position in your rear the general thinks you had better move Walthall's division a little farther to the left.
F. A. SHOUP,
Chief of Staff.
July 23 1864
For the next four days both armies eyed each other like weary and wary wrestlers. The Confederates retreated back to their defense line around Atlanta.
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Atlanta Defenses and Batteries Map.
Notes from the Fourth Army Corps, by Lieut. Col. Joseph S. Fullerton.
In accordance with the foregoing orders the artillery of this corps has been firing on Atlanta during this afternoon, and the enemy has been replying from his forts. Our camps are in easy artillery range; also corps headquarters. 7 p. m., directed the division commanders to bring in the troops that they sent out last evening to establish alarm posts. Considerable skirmish today. Losses not reported; small, though. Day very cool for July . P. S.-About 18 killed and wounded today.
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View of a Confederate fort on Peachtree Street looking south toward the city of Atlanta.
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 1864-8 p. m.
Major-General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Army of the Ohio:
GENERAL: I have examined our line of circumvallation, and have no fear of the enemy even attempting to test its strength. But until we get our cavalry in hand and position, I will not attempt anything serious. You may therefore keep things statu quo, and look only to your supplies of food and ammunition. I have seen General Rousseau, and am satisfied he has made a break that cuts off Alabama for a month, and he has brought us in pretty fair condition some 2,500 additional cavalry.
I am, yours, truly, W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.
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Peachtree Street with Wagon Traffic - Atlanta, GA, 1864
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 23, 1864-8 p. m.
Major General JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Army of the Tennessee:
GENERAL: I have this moment returned from an examination of our entire line. You know your own. The balance extends in a circle at about 1,000 yards distant from the enemy's lines, as far as Proctor's Creek, the whole of Palmer's corps being east and south of the railroad. All have covered their fronts with parapets so that the enemy will not attempt a sally. The question now is, What next? I will in person explain all that is necessary to produce the result aimed at as soon as General returns. You need not apprehend a renewal of the attack on the part of the enemy, but should, on the contrary, begin to feel out with skirmishers, and support into the woods east of Giles Smith's division and Dodge's corps. In the morning early let Woods' division move into Decatur, stay awhile, and return. Let details of men and pioneers begin at your very front and break up and destroy the railroad absolutely back to including Decatur. Until we conclude upon the best manner of reducing Atlanta we cannot be better employed than in rendering the Atlanta and Augusta road useless; especially have the iron rails heated and twisted. I want your skirmishers to feel out early to-morrow in front of Dodge for a double purpose- to hold on that flank the cavalry of Wheeler, while we operate on Thomas' flank and create a diversion for Garrard, now on his return from his expedition.
I am, with respect, your obedient servant,
W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.
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Atlanta, Georgia, October, 1864. Union pickets at rest on top of Confederate breast works southeast of Atlanta looking east to where the battle of July 22, 1864 began.
CAMP NEAR MILES NORTH OF ATLANTA, July 23, 1864-11 p. m.
Major T. T. ECKERT:
Enemy has been less active to-day, attacking only in front of Army of the Cumberland, and being engaged in burying dead on ground of yesterday's fight under flags of truce. General Logan commands Army of the Tennessee, and Morgan L. Smith takes the Fifteenth Corps. Our loss in yesterday's battle-of artillery, 8 guns; about 30 wagons, and 200 prisoners. As I write our heavy artillery is at work, and large fires are burning in Atlanta, supposed to be the enemy destroying stores preparatory to evacuating.
J. C. VAN DUZER,
Cipher Operator, U. S. Military Telegraph.
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Atlanta Intelligencer newspaper office by the railroad depot.
HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION,
Turner and Mason's Ferry Road, July 23, 1864-8.30 a. m.
Lieutenant D. F. HOW:
My command drove the rebels away from here this morning. The force in my front was Jackson's division. I got the report of effective force of one brigade, Harrison's, and it numbered 1, 618 men. So I judge the division is strong, which is confirmed by prisoners taken. I will open communication with General Davis as soon as possible. It is about a mile from here to the river. I sent the dispatch to General Stoneman across.
Very respectfully,
E. M. McCOOK, Brigadier-General, Commanding.
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Chevaux-De-Frise on Marietta Street, Photographic Wagons and Darkroom Beyond - Atlanta GA, 1864 Fort H.
Confederate letters today.
HEADQUARTERS, July 23, 1864.
His Excellency Governor BROWN:
The State troops under Major-General Smith fought with great gallantry in the action of yesterday.
J. B. HOOD, General.
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Confederate sappers constructed a number of artillery emplacements covering the avenues of approach to Atlanta. The artillery in this fortification overlooks Peachtree Street.
HEADQUARTERS, Macon, July 23, 1864.
General J. B. HOOD, Atlanta:
I am proud to hear of the gallant conduct of the State troops. Thousands of others have now assembled in response to my call, and will be armed and sent forward as rapidly as possible, who upon the soil of their beloved State will strike with equal valor for the defense of their wives and their children, their homes and their altars. I assure you of the most energetic co-operation with all the aid in my power. May God grant you success and aid to drive the invaders from the soil of the Confederacy.
JOSEPH E. BROWN, Governor of Georgia
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View on Decatur Street, Showing Trout House and Masonic Hall - Atlanta GA, 1864
JULY 23, 1864.
General WHEELER:
General hood wishes you to take what you think a sufficient force and pursue the raiding party you report as moving on the Covington road. You must leave a small force to observe General Hardee's right, and if necessary recall the brigade you were ordered to send to East Point.
Respectfully, W. W. MACKALL, Chief of Staff.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...w--~BUnion troops loading wagons during occupation of Atlanta.
July 24th 1864
Sherman placed Howard in command of the Army of the Tennessee, an act that so disgusted Hooker, who believed he was entitled to the post and who with good cause blamed Howard for his defeat at Chancellorsville, that he resigned as head of the XX Corps, which as a result came under the temporary command of Williams.
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Gen. William T. Sherman, Leaning on Breach of Gun, and Staff at Federal Fort No. 7 - Atlanta GA, 1864
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 1864-3 p. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
On making up reports and examining the field, I find the result of Hood's attack on our left more disastrous to the enemy than I reported. Our loss will not foot up 2,000 killed and wounded, whereas we have found over 1,000 rebels dead, which will make with the usual proportion of wounded, a loss to the enemy of full 7,000.
General Garrard has also returned, perfectly successfully, having completely destroyed the two large bridges near Covington, forty miles toward Augusta, brought in 200 prisoners and some good horses, and destroyed the public stores at Covington and Conyers, including 2,000 bales of cotton, a locomotive, and a train of cars. Our communications are yet all safe, and the army in good condition in all respects. As soon as my cavalry rests I propose to swing the Army of the Tennessee round by the right rapidly and interpose between Atlanta and Macon, the only line open to the enemy.
The sudden loss of McPherson was a heavy blow to me. I can hardly replace him, but must have a successor. After thinking over the whole matter, I prefer that Major General O. O. Howard be ordered to command the Army and Department of the Tennessee. If this meets the President's approval, notify me by telegraph, when I will put him in command, and name others to fill the vacancies created. Logan, as senior-commands the Army of the Tennessee for the present.
After we have taken Atlanta I will name officers who merit promotion. In the meantime, I request that the President will not give increased rank to any officer who has gone on leave from sickness, or cause other than wounds in battle.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...Sfg--~BGen. William T. Sherman on Horseback at Federal Fort No. 7 - Atlanta GA, 1864
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 24, 1864.
General L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army:
GENERAL: It is my painful duty to report that Brigadier General James B. McPherson, U. S. Army, major-general of volunteers and commander of the Army of the Tennessee in the field, was killed by a shot from ambuscade about noon of yesterday. At the time of this fatal shot he was on horseback, placing his troops in position near the city of Atlanta, and was passing by a cross-road from a moving column toward the flank of troops that had already been established on the line.
He had quitted me but a few moments before and was his way to see in person to the execution of my orders. About the time of this sad event the enemy had sallied his entrenchments around Atlanta and had, by a circuit, got to the left and rear of this very line and had begun an attack which resulted in serious battle, so that General McPherson fell in battle, booted and spurred, as the gallant knight and gentleman should wish. Not his loss, but the country's, and the army will mourn his death and cherish his memory as that of one who, though comparatively young, had risen by his merit and ability to the command of one of the best armies the nation had called into existence to vindicate its honor and integrity.
History tells us of but few who so blended the grace and gentleness of the friends with the dignity, courage, faith, and manliness of the soldier. His public enemies, even the men who directed the fatal shot, never spoke or wrote of him without expressions of marked respect; those whom he commanded loved him even to idolatry, and I, his associate and commander, fail in words adequate to express my opinion of his great worth. I feel assured that every patriot in America on hearing this sad news will feel a sense of personal loss and the country generally will realize that we have lost not only an able military leader but a man who, had he survived, was qualified to heal the national strife which has been raised by ambitious and designing men. His body has been sent North in charge of Major Willard, Captain Steele and Gile, his personal staff.
I am, with great respect,
W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...JpBSeg--~B Fort G
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, near Atlanta, Ga., July 24, 1864.
Major General JOHN A. LOGAN, Commanding Army of the Tennessee:
GENERAL: I have pretty well surveyed the whole position, and by the aid of maps and my own observations think I understand the case pretty well. Our lines are now strong in front, and we compass Atlanta from the railroad on the east to the railroad west. The enemy, having failed in his assault on your flank before it was covered by any defensible works, and having sustained most serious loss, will not again attempt it, but will await our action. I now inclose you a map made by General Schofield's engineers, which shows the road to your present right rear. I sent Captain Poe to see you this morning, but from what Captain Hickenlooper says I think I may have failed to convey to you my right meaning, which is this: The only object in placing the Army of the Tennessee on that flank was to reach and destroy the railroad from Atlanta toward Augusta. That is partially done, and the work of destruction should be continued as far as possible. I wish you to keep one division or more employed day and night in breaking and burning the road until General Garrard returns. I feel no doubt but that he has succeeded in breaking the bridges across the Yellow River and the Ulcofauhachee, but he may have to fight his way back, and to relieve him I wish you to push your skirmishers out from General Dodge's front of General Blair's left, as though you were going to push your way to the east of Atlanta toward the August road.
To keep up this delusion, you should send a column cautiously down one of those roads or valleys, southeast, and engage the enemy outside his works, but no behind his trenches. As soon as General Garrard is back you can discontinue all such demonstration and prepare for your next move. I proposed give you timely notice to send your wagons behind General Thomas and then to move your army behind the present to the extreme right, to reach, if possible, the Macon road, which you know to be the only road by which Atlanta can be supplied. This will leave General Schofield the left flank, which will be covered by the works he has constructed on his front, and he can use the abandoned trenches of the enemy to cover his left rear. You will no longer send your wagons by Roswell, but by Buck Head and Pace's Ferry, and when you change you will draw from the railroad bridge, to which our cars now run, and at which point we are making a pier bridge, as also two of pontoons.
General Stoneman will surely be at Decatur today, and we will have two divisions of cavalry on our right viz, General McCook's and [Colonel] Harrison's (General Rousseau's). Act with confidence. Know that the enemy cannot budge you from your present ground, and act offensively to show him that you dare him to the encounter. You can understand that being on the defensive he cannot afford to sally unless at great peril. General Schofield has so strengthened his front that I fell no uneasiness about that flank, and only study now to make the next move so quickly that we may reach East Point or vicinity with as little loss as possible. My headquarters are now behind General Howard's corps, General Newton's division, on the main Marietta and Atlanta road, which crosses the Chattahoochee at Pace's Ferry and passes through Buck Head. I am at a large white house near the enemy's old line of entrenchments, a prolongation of the same which passes from where I saw you yesterday by General Schofield's position. I have just heard that General Garrard is back. Go on breaking that railroad good.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.
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Sherman's men destroying a railroad in Atlanta.
ATLANTA, July 24, 1864.
Honorable J. A. SEDDON, Richmond, Va.:
All has been quiet to-day except a little picket-firing and occasional shells thrown into the city.
J. B. HOOD, General.
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Panoramic Atlanta.
July 25th 1864
Still a day in which things have settled down around Atlanta. The armies are in their respective trenches in some places only 1000 yards apart.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...-~BFederal Soldiers Relaxing by Guns of Captured Fort - Atlanta GA, 1864
Union reports from today.
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 25, 1864-8 a. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I find it difficult to make prompt report of results coupled with some data or information without occasionally making some mistakes. General McPherson's sudden death, and General Logan succeeding to the command, as it were, in the midst of battle, made some confusion on our extreme left, but it soon recovered and made sad have with the enemy, who had practiced one of his favorite games of attacking our left when in motion and before it had time to cover its weak end. After riding over the ground and hearing the varying statements of the actors on that flank, I directed General Logan to make me an official report of the actual results.
Though the number of dead rebels seems excessive, I am disposed to give full credit to the report that our loss, though only 3,521 killed, wounded, and missing, the enemy's dead alone on the field nearly equal that number, viz, 3,240. Happening at that point of the line when a flag of truce was sent in to ask permission for each party to bury its dead, I gave General Logan authority to permit a temporary truce on that flank alone, while our labors and fighting proceeded at all others. I also send you copy of General Garrard's report of the breaking of railroad toward Augusta. Now I am grouping my command to attack the Macon road, and with that view will intrench a strong line of circumvallation and flanks, so as to have as large an infantry column to co-operate as possible with all the cavalry to swing round to the south and east to control that road at or below East Point.
I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.
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Soldiers atop Fort H.
Confederate reports……………
ATLANTA, GA., July 25, 1864.
His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, Richmond, Va.:
The moral effect of our brilliant affair of the 22nd has been admirable on our troops, and I am happy to say our loss was small in comparison to the enemy's. He was badly defeated and completely failed in one of his bold flank movements, heretofore so successful. Lieutenant-General Lee will probably arrive tomorrow, when I may return to Montgomery to see General Maury and hear from General Smith.
BRAXTON BRAGG.
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View from inside Fort H
GENERAL FIELD ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMY OF TENNESSEE, Numbers 7.
In the Field, July 25, 1864.
SOLDIERS: Experience has proved to you that safety in time of battle consists in getting into close quarters with your enemy. Guns and colors are the only unerring indications of victory. The valor of troops is easily estimated, too, by the number of these secured. If your enemy be allowed to continue the operation of flanking you out of position, our cause is in great peril. Your recent brilliant success proves the ability to prevent it. You have but to will it, and God will it, and God will grant us the victory your commander and your country expect.
J. B. HOOD, General.
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Atlanta defenses landscape photo with trenches.
SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ROSS Brigadier, JACKSON'S CAV. DIV., Numbers 15.
McGhee's Farm, Ga., July 25, 1864.
I. Officers on duty in front should not content themselves with merely observing if the enemy advance, but keep themselves informed of his movements, and report promptly whatever changes in his position or line occur during their tour of service. To this end, a few scouts should be kept constantly in front of the advanced vedettes and sufficiently near the enemy to observe his movements. The first duty of a picket commander, after his vedettes have been established, is to inform himself of the exact position of the enemy's vedettes and pickets, and to observe frequently during the day if they have been moved. Especially is it important to know early in the morning what changes may have taken place during the preceding night. It is therefore made the duty of each picket commander to forward very early each morning a report in writing of the exact position of the enemy, and what if any changes may have occurred since the evening before, and to report in person as soon as relieved at the expiration of his tour of service.
II. The officers and men are enjoined to arrest all persons attempting to pass through or about our lines, unless shielded by the proper written authority. It has been but a day or two since some members of the Legion, by their vigilance and prompt discharge of duty, did a most valuable service to our army and country by arresting one, who proved to be a Federal officer, escaped from prison and attempting to make his way to Yankee lines, with information which would have been of great importance to the enemy and might have injured us irreparably. We cannot be too vigilant. Uniforms and badges of rank are not sufficient passports, but all officers, as well as men, will be required to show their papers, and whenever the least doubt exists as to their authority to pass they will be arrested and sent to these headquarters.
By order of Brigadier-General Ross:
D. R. GURLEY, Assistant Adjutant-General.
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Men sitting on logs near Confederate Rifle Trenches.
July 26th 1864
Several command changes took place on the Confederate side, with the most important being the replacement of Cheatham as head of Hood's former corps by Lieutenant General Stephen D. Lee, a thirty-year-old West Pointer who had been placed in charge of Mississippi and Alabama when Polk went to Georgia.
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"Auction & Negro Sales," Whitehall Street
We start today with Confederate reports……….
ATLANTA, July 26, 1864.
Honorable J. A. SEDDON, Richmond:
No material change in affairs to-day. Lieutenant General S. D. Lee has reported and been assigned as ordered.
J. B. HOOD.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/c...gPalisades and chevaux de frise in front of the Potter (or Pondor) House, Atlanta, Georgia, 1864.
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TENNESSEE, July 26, 1864-12 p.m.
Major-General WHEELER, Commanding Cavalry:
GENERAL: General Hood desires you to relieve General Hardee with your command, taking his position. You will move without delay, putting yourself in communication with him at once. You will leave a sufficient force on your right to give you certain information of the movements of the enemy, in case he should make any in that quarter, and to conceal, if possible, your withdrawal. General Hardee waits your movements.
Very respectfully,
F. A. SHOUP, Chief of Staff.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/c...ta1864.jpg Ponder House up by Georgia Tech.
One notable establishment destroyed by Union soldiers was the Potter (or Ponder) House, built in 1857 and owned by Ephraim G. Ponder, a holder of 65 slaves before the war. In the battle, it was used by Confederate sharpshooters until Union artillery inflicted heavy damage. It was never rebuilt. One of Ponder's slaves, Festus Flipper, was the father of Henry Ossian Flipper, who later became the first African American cadet to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point.
HDQRS. ROSS' BRIGADE, JACKSON'S CAVALRY DIVISION, July 26, 1864
Brigadier-General JACKSON, Commanding Division:
GENERAL: The enemy have advanced to the church at Turner's Ferry and drove my pickets back to within half a mile of Lick Skillet. They seem desirous of extending their line down the river. They are as far down as the Green's Ferry road. Their pickets hold Green's Ferry road at Glenn's house. Some cavalry still in sight on the opposite side of the river.
Captain Wright and Lieutenant McClatchey, who charged on one of the roads this evening with their companies, inform me that they ran over and captured within 200 yards of the enemy's works more of the enemy trying to escape on foot than they could take care of. Captain Wright turned them back to the rear as rapidly as possible, but they showed much reluctance to going, and just then the enemy opened with canister from their works, regardless of their own men in Captain Wright's possession, and all the prisoners fell on the ground and refused to run, whereupon Captain Wright and his men commenced killing them. They fired all their loads from pistols and guns into them and then retired for shelter from the artillery. Captain Wright killed 2 and Lieutenant McClatchey fired six rounds at them. A column of cavalry passed up the river on the opposite side this evening just before dark, going in direction of Turner's Ferry. My scouts think it a brigade. The enemy did not advance from their works. My pickets are where they stood this morning.
I am, general, very respectfully, &c.,
L. S. ROSS, Brigadier-General.
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Locomotive stranded on desecrated rail line.
Union reports………
NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 26, 1864 - 9 p. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
Tomorrow we begin the move against Atlanta, having strongly trenched our front from the railroad east of Atlanta to hill on the south of Proctor's Creek. I move the whole Army of the Tennessee to the right, extending the line south, threatening East Point, and forcing, as I think, Hood to abandon Atlanta or allow us, at small cost, to occupy the railroad south of the town, that to the east being well destroyed. At the same time I send by the right a force of about 3,500 cavalry, under General McCook, and round by the left about 5,000 cavalry, under Stoneman, with orders to reach the railroad about Griffin. I also have consented that Stoneman (after he has executed this part of his plan), if he finds of feasible, may, with his division proper (about 2,000), go to Macon and attempt the release the release of our officers, prisoners there, and then to Andersonville to release the 20,000 of our men, prisoners there. This is probably more than he can accomplish, but it is worthy of determination effort. While these are in progress I will, with the main army, give employment to all of the rebel army still in Atlanta.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...rACnPw--~B Fort H
HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, In the Field, before Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864.
Major-General THOMAS and SCHOFIELD:
GENTLEMAN: As a part of the moment to-morrow I wish, while the cavalry is moving out, say at 6 a. m., and General Logan's troops shifting from left to right, that you send from some point of the front of each division in our line of circumvallation a bold party of about a regiment strong to push back the enemy's outlying pickets and feel their position. This will have the effect of holding them and drawing there as large a body of the enemy as possible, as he will on such a display. In as much as Jeff. C. Davis' division is placed as a strong right flank, and therefore will be almost entirely in reserve when the Army of the Tennessee gets to the right, I wish the demonstration to his front be still more decided,viz, a whole brigade should move on the ridge due south from the hill intrenched beyond Proctor's Creek, and should push back the enemy beyond any little rifle-pits to his main line, which will be found up on the main ridge which extends from Atlanta to East Point. This brigade should move toward the old village of White Hall, about two miles and a half from Atlanta. These demonstrations should proceed slowly and deliberately, and last all day, and should be as bold and provoking to the enemy as possible, tempting him to sally out and test our present lines.
I am, &c.,
W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, Commanding.
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House in Atlanta no other information available.
HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Near Atlanta, Ga., July 26, 1864.
To the Fourth Army Corps:
Having been assigned to another command, the duty, by no means a pleasant one, devolves upon me to take leave of a corps that I have learned to love and trust. The time of our service together has been short, but crowded with remarkable events. The words "Dalton," "Resaca," "Adairsville," "Kingston," "Cassville," "Dallas," "Kenesaw," "Smyrna Camp-Ground," and "Peach Tree Creek," suggest to us fields of conflict, more or less severe, where we have buried many and endeared comrade, where you have won honor for your country and yourselves, and where the enemy has learned anew to fear and respect the power of the Government for which we fight. It is with pain that I realize my inability to reward your cheerful devotion to duty, your arduous and prolonged labor, and your uncomplaining sacrifices. I heartily appreciate the constant co-operation of the division commanders, and the cheerful manner in which they have sustained me, and in which they have been sustained by their own officers. To them, and, through them to their commands, I tender my warmest thanks and unqualified commendation. No officer could have received more ready and untiring assistance from his staff than I have from mine. To them also I am more than grateful. Believing from my heart that our cause is right and just before God, as I take leave of your I commenced you to His blessing, and trust He will assist our armies to complete the work which He has enabled them so gloriously to bring to the present stage of success.
O. O. HOWARD, Major-General.
July 27th 1864
Early on the morning of July 27 Howard and the Army of the Tennessee began the movement that Sherman had planned to make before the July 22 battle - a swing around to the west side of Atlanta for the purpose of cutting the Macon railroad, Hood's sole remaining supply line.
HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Before Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864.
Lieutenant Colonel WILLIAM T. CLARK, Assistant Adjutant-General, Dept. and Army of the Tennessee:
COLONEL: I have the honor to report, for the information of the major-general commanding, that in obedient to instructions from him I advanced the Third Division of this corps, immediately on its arrival, with instructions to proceed and take up position on General Dodge's right, and on the extension of the line occupied by his command. After a sharp skirmish, which made it necessary to advance slowly, it was found unavoidable to advance farther in consequence of the darkness and difficult nature of the ground. In consequence of the road being blocked up by wagons and artillery, the Fourth Division did not reach the vicinity of the position assigned it until almost dark.
It was, however, moved rapidly forward with the view to connect with the right of the Third Division; before reaching the Third Division, however, it became dark, and it was considered by the officer commanding the troops, as well as myself, to be entirely impracticable to advance farther. I therefore formed it in a strong position, the left resting on the rear of the right of the Third Division, and the right thrown back so as to form almost a right angle with the line occupied by that division, thereby securing my right flank and rear.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
FRANK P. BLAIR, JR., Major-General.
https://ec.yimg.com/ec?url=http%3a%2f%2f...yjKl0A--~B West Side Siege Line Marker is at the intersection of Chappell Road and Rome Drive, on the right when traveling south on Chappell Road.
Inscription: Howard's Army of the Tenn. 3 corps), which had fought E. of Atlanta July 22, were shifted to this area West of the city, July 27, 28, 1864. Dodge's 16th and Blair's 17th A.C. were aligned along Chapel Rd. which, in 1864, led S.W. directly to Ezra Ch. (MOZLEY PARK), where the line was prolonged westward by the 15th corps. This shift of Federal forces was a thrust at the 2 railroads entering the city from the S.W. at East Point. After the Battle of Ezra Church, July 28, siege operations were pushed E. toward Atlanta by these troops, together with the 14th and 23d corps, which prolonged the line S. to the Campbellton Road.
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Davis' Hill Marker is at the intersection of Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway (U.S. 278) and Chappell Road, on the right when traveling west on Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway.
Inscription: The hill N. of the Chapel Rd. intersection was thus named after occupation & intrenching by Gen. J.C. Davis' 2d Div., 14th A.C., July 22, when the Army of the Cumberland [US] moved up from Peachtree Cr. to the siege line facing the N. sector of Atlanta's defenses. Davis' position here formed the Right of the siege until July 28. From this hill Sherman directed Howard (com'd'g. Army of the Tenn., vice McPherson deceased) to align his 3 corps -- the 15th, 16th, & 17th -- S. along Chapel Rd., facing E. The shift of these troops from the E. to the W. side of Atlanta, began a move upon the 2 remaining railroads.
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NEAR ATLANTA, GA., July 27, 1864 - 8.30 p. m.
Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.:
My two cavalry expeditions are off to make a wide circuit and reach the Macon road well to the southeast of Atlanta, and the Army of the Tennessee is shifted to the extreme right, reaching well toward the railroad, so that I think tomorrow must develop something. The cavalry will have to fight the enemy's cavalry, and we can hold the infantry and artillery to Atlanta and force them to extend and choose between Atlanta and East Point. I don't think the enemy can hold both. All are well pleased with General Howard's appointment but Generals Logan and Hooker. The former though he ought to have been allowed the command of the army in the field until the end of the campaign; but I explained to him that a permanent department commander had to be appointed at once, as discharges, furloughs, and much detailed business could alone be done by a department commander. General Hooker is offended because he thinks he is entitled to the command. I must be honest and say he is not qualified or suited to it. He talks of quitting. If General Thomas recommends, I shall not object. He is not indispensable to our success. He is welcome to my place of the President awards, but I cannot name him to so important a command as the Army of the Tennessee. All is well. The enemy today offered no serious opposition to the changes of today, and our skirmishing and artillery were just enough to make things interesting.
W. T. SHERMAN,
Major-General, Commanding.
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The Errant Line Marker was at the intersection of Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway (U.S. 278) and Elinor Place, on the right when traveling west on Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway.
Inscription: July 28, 1864. Anticipating a Confederate attack on the Right of the 15th A. C. [US], aligned W. of Ezra Ch., Sherman sent Davis' div. (14th A. C.), on a circuitous march W., so as to come in on Logan's Rt. via Lick Skillet (Adamsville) Road. Davis' troops, led by Gen. J, D. Morgan, marched toward the Chattahoochee, intending to reach Lick Skillet by a side road. Devoid of maps or guides, the column traversed a wilderness of forest & swamps until halted by Confederate cavalry & preemptory orders to return. Logan's 15th -- hard pressed by Hood's forces -- managed to hold on, aided by 12 regiments of the 16th & 17th A. C., aligned along Chapel Rd.
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HDQRS. 20TH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND,
Near Atlanta, Ga., July 27, 1864.
Brigadier-General WHIPPLE:
SIR: I have just learned that Major-General Howard, my junior, has been assigned to the command of the Army of the Tennessee. If this is that case I request that I may be relieved from duty with this army. Justice and self-respect alike require my removal from an army in which rank and service are ignored. I should like to have my personal staff relieved with me.
JOSEPH HOOKER,
Major-General.
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Meanwhile the Confederate Army counters the Union move to the west side of Atlanta thus
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TENNESSEE, July 27, 1864-9 p. m.
Major-General WHEELER, Commanding Cavalry:
General Hood directs that you go yourself in pursuit of the enemy. Direct whoever you leave in command to report to General Hardee. Humes' division starts for Flat Rock to-night, and will there await your orders. General Ferguson's brigade will move to the right tonight.
Very respectfully,
F. A. SHOUP, Chief of Staff.
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JULY 27, 1864-1.30 p. m.
Lieutenant-General LEE:
As soon as relieved by General Hardee, General Hood directs that you move Brown's and Clayton's divisions to the left, under cover, so that the movement may not be observed by the enemy. Let these divisions rest in rear of the line between the Peach Tree and Marietta roads, and be in readiness to move at any moment. Supply them with sixty rounds of ammunition, if practicable. After making these dispositions please report in person to these headquarters. That part of Stevenson's division to the left of the Peach Tree road will not be withdrawn. Your left will rest near the Marietta road.
F. A. SHOUP.
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Lick Skillet Road Marker is on Martin Luther King Jr Drive SW (Georgia Route 139) 0.1 miles west of Anderson Avenue, on the left when traveling west. Looking west on Martin Luther King Jr Drive; West View Cemetery is on the left behind the fence.
Inscription: A winding dirt road of the 1860's which passed Ezra Ch. (S.E. cor. Mozley Park) & continued S.W. to Gordon Terrace, where it joined Gordon R. & ran westward to a cross-roads settlement called Lick Skillet, now known as Adamsville. The road, Mozley Drive, did not exist in 1864. Lick Skillet Road is cited frequently in reports, Confederate & Federal, as are 2 other landmarks of the battlefield: Ezra Church & the Alms House. The latter stood near the present Gate House of West View Cemetery. The battle of Ezra Ch. began with the advance of S. D. Lee's A.C. (deployed E. & W. of the Alms House), northward across Lick Skillet Road.
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JULY 27, 1864-4 p. m.
Lieutenant-General STEWART:
From present appearances the enemy is preparing to attack our left. Please have everybody on the alert and in readiness. As soon as Lee gets into position in your rear the general thinks you had better move Walthall's division a little farther to the left.
F. A. SHOUP,
Chief of Staff.
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