Advanced elements of the Confederate army, with skirmishers well in front, manned a roadblock at this point, Davis Plantation. About 7 a.m. on May 16, a strong Union column appeared in their front and began driving in the skirmishers. Couriers were dispatched informing the army commanders that contact with the enemy had been made. For the next hour and a half, musketry flared as the Federals probed the Confederate position.
Ellison House Site, Champion Hill Battlefield
NPS Photo
On May 15, Confederate commander, John C. Pemberton, had established his headquarters in the home of Mrs. Sarah Ellison. On May 16, shortly after 7 a.m., while Pemberton was briefing his subordinates, Col. W. Wirt Adams rode up on a sweat-streaked horse and said the enemy was advancing in force along the Raymond Road. Pemberton issued orders for the deployment of his army, then shifted his command post to the Isaac Roberts house.
Isaac Roberts Family Cemetery Near Site of Pemberton's Second Headquarters, Champion Hill Battlefield
NPS Photo
Present-day Jackson Creek, Champion Hill Battlefield
NPS Photo
At this point, A. J. Smith's division, spearheading the Union advance along the Raymond Road, discovered the bridge over Jackson Creek had been destroyed. The column was halted and pioneers sent forward to make repairs. Their efforts were curtailed when Confederate artillery roared into action, but Union artillery was wheeled into position and responded with telling effect. A half hour later the Confederate artillery fell silent and bridge repair work was resumed. By 11 a.m., Union troops had crossed the bridge and taken position on the ridge west of Jackson Creek.
