Battle Detail

Rivers' Bridge

Other Name:
Salkehatchie River, Hickory Hill, Owens' Crossroads, Lawtonville, Duck Creek
Campaign:
Campaign of the Carolina's
Date(s):
February-March 1865
Principal Commanders:
Major General Francis Blair, Jr. [US] Major General Lafayette McLaws [CS]
Forces Engaged:
1200 total (US 0; CS 1200;)
Estimated Casualties:
262 total (US 92; CS 170;)
Description:
On February 2, a Confederate force under McLaws held the crossings of the Salkehatchie River against the advance of the right wing of Sherman's Army. Federal soldiers began building bridges across the swamp to bypass the road block. In the meantime, Union columns worked to get on the Confederates' flanks and rear. On February 3, two Union brigades waded the swamp downstream and assaulted McLaws's right. McLaws retreated toward Branchville after stalling Sherman's advance for only one day.
Results:
Union Victory
CWSAC Reference #:
SC011
Preservation Priority: