Battle Detail

Dalton II

Other Name:
Campaign:
Morgan's Raid Into Kentucky
Date(s):
May-September 1864
Principal Commanders:
Major General James Steedman [US] Major General Joseph Wheeler [CS]
Forces Engaged:
0 total (US 0; CS 0;)
Estimated Casualties:
0 total (US 0; CS 0;)
Description:
Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler and his cavalry raided into North Georgia to destroy railroad tracks and supplies. They approached Dalton in the late afternoon of August 14 and demanded the surrender of the garrison. The Union commander, Col. Bernard Laibolt, refused to surrender and fighting ensued. Greatly outnumbered, the Union garrison retired to fortifications on a hill outside the town where they successfully held out, although the attack continued until after midnight. Skirmishing continued throughout the night. Around 5:00 am, on the 15th, Wheeler retired and became engaged with relieving infantry and cavalry under Maj. Gen. James B. Steedman's command. Eventually, Wheeler withdrew. The contending forces' reports vary greatly in describing the fighting, the casualties, and the amount of track and supplies captured and destroyed. This engagement was inconclusive, but since the Confederates withdrew, it may be termed a Union victory.
Results:
Union Victory
CWSAC Reference #:
GA020
Preservation Priority: