City officials surrender Charleston, South Carolina, to Federal forces this morning. The city’s devastation symbolizes the Confederacy’s struggle.
Tag: Department of the South
The South Carolina Campaign Begins
Major General William T. Sherman issues orders for his Federal troops to start moving north, out of Savannah and into South Carolina. Sherman plans to feint against Charleston and Augusta while actually targeting the state capital of Columbia.
Sherman Looks to South Carolina
William T. Sherman prepares for what promises to be another devastating Federal march through the southern heartland. Meanwhile, Confederate reinforcements are scarce.
The Battle of Honey Hill
Federal troops look to cut the Savannah & Charleston Railroad to stop Confederates from reinforcing Savannah. Confederates aim to block this move by posting strong defenses near Honey Hill in South Carolina.
Federals Begin Operations in Florida
Federal forces are assigned to invade Florida to try restoring the state to the Union. The Federals soon find that there is not as much Union sentiment in Florida as expected. As they move westward from the Atlantic coast, Confederates scramble to put up a defense near the hamlet of Olustee.
Federals Regroup on Morris Island
Federal forces remain on Morris Island to threaten both Battery Wagner and Charleston, South Carolina, but the high command determines that more men are needed to finish the job.