Battle Detail

Dalton I

Other Name:
Campaign:
Forrest's Expedition Into West Tennessee and Kentu
Date(s):
February 1864
Principal Commanders:
Major General George Thomas [US] Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Johnston [CS]
Forces Engaged:
0 total (US 0; CS 0;)
Estimated Casualties:
429 total (US 289; CS 140;)
Description:
From Vicksburg, Mississippi, Sherman launched a campaign to take the important railroad center at Meridian and, if the situation was favorable, to push on to Selma and threaten Mobile, in order to prevent the shipment of Confederate men and supplies. To counter the threat, Confederate President Jefferson Davis ordered troops into the area. While these operations unfolded, Thomas determined to probe Gen. Johnston's army in the hope that Johnston's loss of two divisions, sent to reinforce Lt. Gen. Leonidas Polk as he withdrew from Meridian to Demopolis, Alabama, would make him vulnerable. Skirmishing and intense fighting occurred throughout the demonstration. At Crow Valley on the 25th, Union troops almost turned the Rebel right flank, but ultimately it held. On the 27th, Thomas's army withdrew, realizing that Johnston was ready and able to counter any assault.
Results:
Confederate Victory
CWSAC Reference #:
GA006
Preservation Priority: