July 27-29, 1864. With Grant's Overland Campaign stalled outside of Petersburg, the time for bold thinking had come. A mineshaft, packed with explosives, was all set to break open Lee's fortified lines at Petersburg. To improve his chances of a breakthrough, Grant sent Hancock's II Corps and Sheridan's cavalry to the north side of the James River. Either Lee would have to shift troops north to counter this new move or risk losing Richmond to the Yankees. This action would lead to the battle of First Deep Bottom. Right now, CWPT has the opportunity to save 125 pristine acres of this important battlefield.
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More Resources and History
First Battle of Deep Bottom
- Harper's Weekly: Illustration of First Deep Bottom
- Gen. Ewell and First Deep Bottom
- First Deep Bottom Historical Markers
The First Battle of Deep Bottom at a Glance
Other Names: Darbytown, Strawberry Plains, New Market Road, Gravel Hill
Campaign:
Richmond-Petersburg Campaign
(June 1864-March 1865)
Location:
Henrico County, Virginia
Google Map of Region
Date(s): July 27-29, 1864
Principal Commanders:
Maj. Gen. Winfield Scott Hancock [US];
Maj. Gen. Charles Field [CS]
Forces Engaged:
Corps
Estimated Casualties:
1,000 total
Battle Summary:
During the night of July 26-27, the Union II Corps and two divisions of Sheridan's cavalry under command of Maj. Gen. Winfield Scott Hancock crossed to the north side of James River to threaten Richmond. This demonstration diverted Confederate forces from the impending attack at Petersburg on July 30. Union efforts to turn the Confederate position at New Market Heights and Fussell's Mill were abandoned when the Confederates strongly reinforced their lines and counterattacked. During the night of July 29, the Federals recrossed the river leaving a garrison as heretofore to hold the bridgehead at Deep Bottom.
Result(s):Confederate victory.
Source: CWSAC, CWPT
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