Barrycdog
Major
- Joined
- Jan 6, 2013
- Location
- Buford, Georgia
#Wagner150 July 17, 1863: Another Attack is Delayed by Rain
The Second Assault against Fort Wagner was originally planned for Friday July 17, 1863, 150 years ago today. However, rain along the South Carolina coast would delay the battle another day. The rain would also play a role in the artillery bombardment planned to proceed the assault.
Federal troops and officers continued to build and arm batteries. The Navy, under Admiral Dahlgren who had met with General Gillmore on the 16th, was preparing to provide support for the assault. Generals Strong and Seymour, made plans for which units would participate in the assault and what order they would attack.
Confederate General Taliaferro carefully positioned the newly arrived troops within Fort Wagner. Infantry troops would include the Charleston Battalion, the 51st North Carolina, and the 31st North Carolina. Artillery positions inside and outside the fort would by manned by Company A, H, and I 1st SC Artillery, Company B and K 63rd GA Artillery, and Company D 22nd GA Battalion.
The final pieces were now in place. On both sides, confidence was abundant, believing it would be a quick fight. Even the rain would not dilute the adrenaline running through their veins.
(Image: Map of Fort Wagner July 18, 1863 from Stephen Wise's book "Gate of Hell" page 98)
Expired Image Removed
The Second Assault against Fort Wagner was originally planned for Friday July 17, 1863, 150 years ago today. However, rain along the South Carolina coast would delay the battle another day. The rain would also play a role in the artillery bombardment planned to proceed the assault.
Federal troops and officers continued to build and arm batteries. The Navy, under Admiral Dahlgren who had met with General Gillmore on the 16th, was preparing to provide support for the assault. Generals Strong and Seymour, made plans for which units would participate in the assault and what order they would attack.
Confederate General Taliaferro carefully positioned the newly arrived troops within Fort Wagner. Infantry troops would include the Charleston Battalion, the 51st North Carolina, and the 31st North Carolina. Artillery positions inside and outside the fort would by manned by Company A, H, and I 1st SC Artillery, Company B and K 63rd GA Artillery, and Company D 22nd GA Battalion.
The final pieces were now in place. On both sides, confidence was abundant, believing it would be a quick fight. Even the rain would not dilute the adrenaline running through their veins.
(Image: Map of Fort Wagner July 18, 1863 from Stephen Wise's book "Gate of Hell" page 98)
Expired Image Removed