Other Names: Front Royal, Cedarville

Location: Warren County

Campaign: Sheridan’s Shenandoah Valley Campaign (August-December 1864)

Date(s): August 16, 1864

Principal Commanders: Brig. Gen. Wesley Merritt [US]; Lt. Gen. Richard Anderson [CS]

Forces Engaged: Divisions

Estimated Casualties:550 total

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.

Result(s): Inconclusive

CWSAC Reference #:VA117