It was a fierce one that doesn't get a lot of press. General Albert Jenkins was mortally wounded during the battle. It got so hot that it was hand to hand for a while, and the casualties were high considering the number engaged. I believe Cloyd's Mountain would be a huge draw for Civil War enthusiasts and an excellent place for educating children in this vital area of our history, but it remains one of the area's best-kept secrets. Here is a description from the NPS:
Cloyd’s Mountain
Other Names: None
Location: Pulaski County
Campaign: Crook-Averell Raid on the Virginia & Tennessee Railroad (May 1864)
Date(s): May 9, 1864
Principal Commanders: Brig. Gen. George Crook [US]; Brig. Gen. Albert Jenkins [CS]
Forces Engaged: Divisions (approx. 10,000)
Estimated Casualties: 1,500 total
Description: On May 9, Crook’s three brigades (6,100 men) on a raid into southwestern Virginia encountered a patchwork Confederate force under Brig. Gen. Albert Jenkins at Cloyd’s Mountain. Fighting was furious and hand-to-hand. Casualties were heavy for the size of the forces engaged: Union 10%, Confederate 23%. Jenkins was mortally wounded. Crook afterwards joined forces with Averell, who had burned the New River Bridge, and the united column withdrew to Meadow Bluff after destroying several important railroad bridges.
Result(s): Union victory
CWSAC Reference #: VA049 Preservation Priority: III.3 (Class C)