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[73]

Return to Atlanta

Effective muskets (sent from Jonesboro）1,900
Reserves of all kinds1,200
Two batteries (a battalion, probably 200）200
State-line troops400
Actual fighting men with rifles and muskets.3,700

The battle began at 2.30 P. M. and lasted until sunset. During the engagement the enemy made three separate charges and were as often repulsed with heavy loss.

General Woods foots his losses: 13 killed, 79 wounded, and 2 missing; total, 93.

The enemy's loss was a little over 600. General Smith had been delayed in Macon while his command was hastening on toward Augusta; they found that we had two corps of our army across all their roads of egress toward Atlanta, Milledgeville, Augusta, or Savannah; hence came about the battle of Griswoldville of which I reported November 27, 1864:

That this engagement was of a more severe character and our loss a little greater than I had at first supposed; but fortunately the enemy attacked us at the very point where we were prepared; though with a force one-third less than that of the enemy. The Confederates were so completely defeated that they troubled us no more in that quarter. During the battle I took post with my staff where I could reenforce if necessary. I was glad to be able to demonstrate General Smith's instructions in regard to taking a new military position.

1

1 Later, during the stormy Reconstruction period, General G. W. Smith defended me in the face of criticism of my efforts to alleviate the suffering of the negro when passing from slavery to freedom. I have always remembered the kindness with gratitude and appreciation.

Baker and Taylor. 1908.

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Gustavus W. Smith (3)
Charles R. Woods (1)
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November 27th, 1864 AD (1)
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