Rivers' Bridge

Other Name:

Salkehatchie River, Hickory Hill, Owens' Crossroads, Lawtonville, Duck Creek

Campaign:

Campaign of the Carolina's

Date(s):

February-March 1865

Principal Commanders:

Major General Francis Blair, Jr. [US] Major General Lafayette McLaws [CS]

Forces Engaged:

1200 total (US 0; CS 1200;)

Estimated Casualties:

262 total (US 92; CS 170;)

Description:

On February 2, a Confederate force under McLaws held the crossings of the Salkehatchie River against the advance of the right wing of Sherman's Army. Federal soldiers began building bridges across the swamp to bypass the road block. In the meantime, Union columns worked to get on the Confederates' flanks and rear. On February 3, two Union brigades waded the swamp downstream and assaulted McLaws's right. McLaws retreated toward Branchville after stalling Sherman's advance for only one day.

Results:

Union Victory

CWSAC Reference #:

SC011

Preservation Priority: