Battle Detail

Kelly's Ford

Other Name:
Kellysville
Campaign:
Cavalry Operations Along the Rappahannock
Date(s):
March 1863
Principal Commanders:
Brigadier General William Averell [US] Major General Fitzhugh Lee [CS]
Forces Engaged:
0 total (US 0; CS 0;)
Estimated Casualties:
179 total (US 99; CS 80;)
Description:
Kelly's Ford was one of the early larger scale cavalry fights in Virginia that set the stage for Brandy Station and cavalry actions of the Gettysburg campaign. Twenty-one hundred troopers of Averell's cavalry division crossed the Rappahannock River to attack the Confederate cavalry. Fitzhugh Lee counterattacked with a brigade of about 800 men. The "Gallant" Pelham was killed. After achieving a localized success, Union forces withdrew in mid-afternoon.
Results:
Indecisive
CWSAC Reference #:
VA029
Preservation Priority: