First Battle of Petersburg

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First Battle of Petersburg
Began:

June 9, 1864

Ended:

Same day

Location:

City of Petersburg, Virginia

Theater:

Eastern Theater

Campaign:

Richmond-Petersburg Campaign

Outcome:

Confederate victory

33 star flag.png
Combatants
Conf Navy Jack.png
Commanders

Quincy GillmoreMajor General, USA

P.G.T. BeauregardGeneral, CSA

Strength

4,500

2,500

Casualties

40

80

  

On June 9, Maj. Gen. Benjamin Butler dispatched about 4,500 cavalry and infantry against the 2,500 Confederate defenders of Petersburg. While Butler's infantry demonstrated against the outer line of entrenchments east of Petersburg, Kautz's cavalry division attempted to enter the city from the south via the Jerusalem Plank Road but was repulsed by Home Guards. Afterwards, Butler withdrew. This was called the “battle of old men and young boys” by local residents. On June 14–17, the Army of the Potomac crossed the James River and began moving towards Petersburg to support and renew Butler's assaults. (NPS summary)