Last updated: January 12, 2023
Place
Thomas's Headquarters
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
Off of Cheatham Hill Road and across from Activity Area 3 in the Southern Section.
Significance:
Headquarter location for top ranking General and starting point for the assault on Cheatham Hill.
Designation:
National Battlefield Park
Amenities
2 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Trailhead
During the battle of Kennesaw Mountain, this was the headquarters for Major General George H. Thomas, Commander of the Army of the Cumberland. Thomas's army was the largest of Sherman's three, standing just over 60,000 strong. This headquartered position was a veritable 'tent city' in the days surrounding the battle. Prior to the battle, Sherman issues 'Special Field Orders No. 28'. In it, he states that 'Maj. Gen. Thomas will assault the enemy at any point near his center, to be selected by himself..."
After doing reconnaissance with Maj. Gen. Thomas, Captain Henry Stone writes that what is today known as Cheatham Hill was finally selected 'more because the lines were nearer each other than beacause the enemy's lines seemed vulnerable' They were roughly 600 yards away from the Confederate line here. The attack would begin at roughly 9:00 am and would be the largest Union assault of the day.
After doing reconnaissance with Maj. Gen. Thomas, Captain Henry Stone writes that what is today known as Cheatham Hill was finally selected 'more because the lines were nearer each other than beacause the enemy's lines seemed vulnerable' They were roughly 600 yards away from the Confederate line here. The attack would begin at roughly 9:00 am and would be the largest Union assault of the day.