The Atlanta (Georgia) Campaign: May 1 - September 8, 1864., Part I: General Report.
Maj. George B. Davis, Mr. Leslie J. Perry, Mr. Joseph W. Kirkley, Ed.

The proper dispositions having been made, the whole skirmish line advanced in face of a heavy fire from the enemy's first line, and at several places reached points within twenty yards of that line, whilst on the right the skirmishers of the Fifteenth Wisconsin, Eightyninth Illinois, and Eighth Kansas gallantly swept forward and mounted the enemy's works. At this juncture a battery of four guns, near a house on our extreme right, opened rapidly with shell and grape, completely enfilading our line. At the same time the enemy opened with musketry volleys from his second, or main, line. Our right was then withdrawn to a sheltered position, where it remained until ordered to occupy its old position. In front of our center the enemy opened with artillery posted in rear of his lines and beyond, but near our left he used a battery of two guns. The movement demonstrated, first, that there is no point to which our skirmish line could be advanced and placed in a tenable position; second, that the enemy's skirmishers are not in pits, but behind continuous [401] works, well constructed; third, that the enemy's main work is from 200 to 300 yards in rear of his first line, well located, and strongly built and protected; fourth, that his main line is on higher ground and completely commands the first; fifth, that a strong skirmish line only occupies the first line of works. When we advanced the enemy's troops appeared in the main line, clearing it for action, by throwing down the arbors and formed in line of battle. These troops, or two regiments, appeared to move up from the rear opposite our left, and, filing left at their works, took position on the double-quick. My advance was under the immediate direction of Major Kidder, Eighty-ninth Illinois, picket officer of the day, who exhibited most commendable prudence, skill, and energy.

My loss was 1 captain severely wounded. Enlisted men-killed, 4; wounded, 10; missing, 2. Total, 17.

I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,