The Battle of Gaines' Mill
June 27, 1862
This was the third of the Seven Days’ Battles. On June 27, 1862, Gen. Robert E. Lee renewed his attacks against Porter’s V Corps, which had established a strong defensive line behind Boatswain’s Swamp north of the Chickahominy River. Porter’s reinforced V Corps held fast for the afternoon against disjointed Confederate attacks, inflicting heavy casualties. At dusk, the Confederates finally mounted a coordinated assault that broke Porter’s line and drove his soldiers back toward the river. The Federals retreated across the river during the night. Defeat at Gaines’ Mill convinced McClellan to abandon his advance on Richmond and begin the retreat to James River. Gaines’ Mill saved Richmond for the Confederacy in 1862.
History Articles
Preservation
Battle Facts
Campaign
- Seven Days Battles
Battles In This Campaign
Location
- Hanover County, Virginia
- Google map ยป
Dates
- June 27, 1862
Union Commander
Confederate Commander
Forces Engaged
- 34,212 Union

- 57,018 Confederate

Estimated Casualties
- 6,800 Union

- 8,700 Confederate

Result
- Confederate Victory










