First Battle of Petersburg

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 Combatants Commanders Quincy GillmoreMajor General, USA P.G.T. BeauregardGeneral, CSA Strength 4,500 2,500 Casualties 40 80
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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)