Battle Detail

Guard Hill

Other Name:
Front Royal, Cedarville
Campaign:
Sheridan's Valley Campaign
Date(s):
August-October 1864
Principal Commanders:
Brigadier General Wesley Merritt [US] Major General Richard Anderson [CS]
Forces Engaged:
0 total (US 0; CS 0;)
Estimated Casualties:
551 total (US 71; CS 480;)
Description:
Kershaw's infantry division and Fitzhugh Lee's cavalry, under overall command of Lt. Gen. Richard Anderson (Army of Northern Virginia, I Corps) were sent from Petersburg to reinforce Early's army in the Valley. At Front Royal on the August 16, Union cavalry of Brig. Gen. Wesley Merritt's division surprised the Confederate columns in mid-stream of the Shenandoah River, capturing about 300. The Confederates rallied and advanced, gradually driving the two Union brigades back to Cedarville. After dark, Merritt withdrew to Ninevah.
Results:
Indecisive
CWSAC Reference #:
VA117
Preservation Priority: