The History of the Delta Rifles
The Delta Rifle Company was organized Dec. 10, 1860. at the first mutterings of southern secession from the United States. Composed of mostly well-to-do planters and planter’s sons, the group included many whom would become ranking officers in the Confederate Army and political leaders in the state of La. Almost everyone of the original company was promoted to the rank of an officer.
On Jan. 9, 1861, the Delta Rifles, although in civilian dress. were among the troops called upon to seize the federal arsenal in Baton Rouge. On Jan. 13, the Delta Rifles occupied the arsenal and the union flag removed.
On May 1, 1861, less than a month after the bombardment of Fort Sumpter, 12 militia companies, among these, the Delta Rifles formed the 4th La. Inf. Reg. in New Orleans, La. The Commander was Col. Robert J. Barrow, and Second-in-command was the famous Henry Watkins Allen.
On Jan. 9, 1861, the Delta Rifles, although in civilian dress. were among the troops called upon to seize the federal arsenal in Baton Rouge. On Jan. 13, the Delta Rifles occupied the arsenal and the union flag removed.
On May 1, 1861, less than a month after the bombardment of Fort Sumpter, 12 militia companies, among these, the Delta Rifles formed the 4th La. Inf. Reg. in New Orleans, La. The Commander was Col. Robert J. Barrow, and Second-in-command was the famous Henry Watkins Allen.
After a hurried three weeks, on May 25, 1861, the 4th La. was mustered into active service at Camp Moore (located 78 mi north of New Orleans). Almost immediately, the 4th was sent to the coast along the Miss. sound to protect against the possibility of invasion. The regiment was scattered from Pass Christian, Mississippi City, Biloxi, Ocean Springs, Pascagoula, and to ships Island. After approximately two months of work parties, drills, and lying in the sun; the entire regiment was reconsolidated at Miss. City and on Oct. 31, proceeded via New Orleans and Brashear City to Berwick on the La. coast.
Finally in Feb. 1862, the 4th was ordered to Jackson, Tenn. to join Albert Sidney Johnston. All were ready to go! The troop train rumbled into New Orleans on Feb. 22 for three days of jubilation, tears, boasts, and promises. Then began a tediously slow journey north. They arrived at Jackson in the midst of a blizzard. The 4th along with many other military units camped there until late March 1862. At this time, Col. Barrow resigned and Allen was elected to command the regiment. The 4th was attached to 2nd corps of the army of Miss. which was under Braxton Bragg.
Finally in Feb. 1862, the 4th was ordered to Jackson, Tenn. to join Albert Sidney Johnston. All were ready to go! The troop train rumbled into New Orleans on Feb. 22 for three days of jubilation, tears, boasts, and promises. Then began a tediously slow journey north. They arrived at Jackson in the midst of a blizzard. The 4th along with many other military units camped there until late March 1862. At this time, Col. Barrow resigned and Allen was elected to command the regiment. The 4th was attached to 2nd corps of the army of Miss. which was under Braxton Bragg.
On March 21, 1862, the 4th entrained to Corinth, Miss., to remain there with others; as the Confederate army under Johnston withdrew from central Tenn. and concentrated around Corinth.
On April 5, the 4th moved toward Shiloh. The Sunday of the 6th was to witness the baptism of the 4th La. They entered the engagement with about 575 men, all inexperienced and untried.
The first moments were disastrous! While drawn up in line of battle, a Tenn. regiment in the rear opened fire by mistake killing and wounding a large number of the men. It almost demoralized the regiment. They were deployed on the sides of an open field a short distance south of the Purdy Road that was sunken below its shoulders. The area came to be known as “The Hornets’ Nest”.
Towards noon Allen and his troops were ordered to attack a federal artillery battery located on a hill. The troops moved forward contending with a tangled mess of underbrush which hindered ever step. Then the enemy, 50 feet away, released a “perfect tornado of fire” which surprised and staggered the men. The regiment retired, formed, and charged again. The men were fearfully cut up. “We plunged into the thicket”, recalled a man, “unable to see the enemy. They did not let us get anywhere so near as first. Nevertheless, this time we delivered two or three volleys before we fell back. We had lost heavily and I noticed the underbrush was considerably thinned out by the enemy’s fire, so fierce and concentrated were the volleys.
Again they retired, reformed, and again they charged. At this time, Col. Allen was shot in the mouth, the minnie ball tearing part of the cheek away. He stopped the wound with cotton and a handkerchief. Co. F reached the top of the hill and achieved a brief breakthrough and engaged in savage and deadly hand-to-hand fighting with Battery A, 5th Ohio Light artillery. Within minutes they were driven back only to attack yet again!
They surged to within 50 feet of the enemy and flung themselves down. The opposing troops were so close that the flames from their muskets seemed to meet. Clouds of white smoke obscured all vision. Riflemen on each side aimed low and fired into the smoke until “it became difficult to drive the ramrods home”. Undeterred, they reversed their guns and hammered the charges in by pounding the ramrods on the ground. This time, the enemy broke and ran with the 4th in pursuit.
By late afternoon, the 4th had followed the enemy to within a mile of the river and came under bombardment from federal gunboat batteries. However, the order to halt the advance had been given! General Johnston had been mortally wounded, and General Beauregard, who succeeded him, gave the order. The men were near exhaustion, ammunition was low, and night was falling.
On April 5, the 4th moved toward Shiloh. The Sunday of the 6th was to witness the baptism of the 4th La. They entered the engagement with about 575 men, all inexperienced and untried.
The first moments were disastrous! While drawn up in line of battle, a Tenn. regiment in the rear opened fire by mistake killing and wounding a large number of the men. It almost demoralized the regiment. They were deployed on the sides of an open field a short distance south of the Purdy Road that was sunken below its shoulders. The area came to be known as “The Hornets’ Nest”.
Towards noon Allen and his troops were ordered to attack a federal artillery battery located on a hill. The troops moved forward contending with a tangled mess of underbrush which hindered ever step. Then the enemy, 50 feet away, released a “perfect tornado of fire” which surprised and staggered the men. The regiment retired, formed, and charged again. The men were fearfully cut up. “We plunged into the thicket”, recalled a man, “unable to see the enemy. They did not let us get anywhere so near as first. Nevertheless, this time we delivered two or three volleys before we fell back. We had lost heavily and I noticed the underbrush was considerably thinned out by the enemy’s fire, so fierce and concentrated were the volleys.
Again they retired, reformed, and again they charged. At this time, Col. Allen was shot in the mouth, the minnie ball tearing part of the cheek away. He stopped the wound with cotton and a handkerchief. Co. F reached the top of the hill and achieved a brief breakthrough and engaged in savage and deadly hand-to-hand fighting with Battery A, 5th Ohio Light artillery. Within minutes they were driven back only to attack yet again!
They surged to within 50 feet of the enemy and flung themselves down. The opposing troops were so close that the flames from their muskets seemed to meet. Clouds of white smoke obscured all vision. Riflemen on each side aimed low and fired into the smoke until “it became difficult to drive the ramrods home”. Undeterred, they reversed their guns and hammered the charges in by pounding the ramrods on the ground. This time, the enemy broke and ran with the 4th in pursuit.
By late afternoon, the 4th had followed the enemy to within a mile of the river and came under bombardment from federal gunboat batteries. However, the order to halt the advance had been given! General Johnston had been mortally wounded, and General Beauregard, who succeeded him, gave the order. The men were near exhaustion, ammunition was low, and night was falling.
The second days fighting began at breakfast for the 4th. As they moved toward the front in the shelter of a ravine, they emerged and surprised a union artillery force who speedily abandoned their cannon. But the Yankee battle-line lay hidden nearby, and suddenly a force of bluecoats rose from the dead cornstalks and spattered the 4th with lead. They, in turn, were forced to leave all the cannons, but two which laboriously dragged back to the ravine as a token of partial victory.
Throughout the day the battle seesawed back and forth; but gradually the southern forces withdrew. The federals did not follow and finally Shiloh was abandoned. The loss of the 4th either killed, wounded, or missing was 15 officers, 194 men. (30% losses in two days) The 4th, after an all night march of stumbling over muddy ground, and fording neck deep streams reached Corinth at ten in the morning.
After two days, they were ordered to reoccupy Monterey where they spent one miserable rain soaked week. On April 16, they left and marched back to Corinth. On the way they had a brief skirmish with federal cavalry. They remained at Corinth until May 2, helping to fortify the area.
On May 2, the 4th La. was ordered to Edward Station, Miss., where companies were detailed in rotation to work on the batteries at Vicksburg. The 4th planted the first guns that ever frowned down from the “Hill City”.
On May 30, 1862, Corinth was evacuated. With the approach of a superior force of union troops from Shiloh, Beauregard, with great skill and secrecy withdrew his army to Tupelo, Miss., 52 miles to the south. With Corinth went Fort Pillow, Memphis, all of west Tenn., northern Miss. and the river down to Vicksburg.
In early June all of the 4th were detailed to Vicksburg where six batteries were constructed. One under fire from the enemy! On June 28, the regiment was relieved of service at the batteries and went on picket duty. That same day, a union fleet including forty gunboats, mortar boats, rams, and transports appeared before the town. Later, they glimpsed the confederate ram “Arkansas” as she dashed along a gauntlet of fire through the midst of the federal fleet to join the defenders of Vicksburg.
While the 4th was on picket duty, the men were ab1e to catch glimpses of union soldiers across the Mississippi. The siege of Vicksburg continued however, punctuated by irregular bombardments day and night. Towards the end of July 1862, the 4th La. left Vicksburg for Camp Moore, La.
On Jul 27, 1862, an expedition under command of General John C. Breckenridge, former democratic candidate for President, was sent into south La. to drive the federal forces out of baton Rouge. They planned to recapture Baton Rouge and New Orleans with the help of the ram “Arkansas”.
Throughout the day the battle seesawed back and forth; but gradually the southern forces withdrew. The federals did not follow and finally Shiloh was abandoned. The loss of the 4th either killed, wounded, or missing was 15 officers, 194 men. (30% losses in two days) The 4th, after an all night march of stumbling over muddy ground, and fording neck deep streams reached Corinth at ten in the morning.
After two days, they were ordered to reoccupy Monterey where they spent one miserable rain soaked week. On April 16, they left and marched back to Corinth. On the way they had a brief skirmish with federal cavalry. They remained at Corinth until May 2, helping to fortify the area.
On May 2, the 4th La. was ordered to Edward Station, Miss., where companies were detailed in rotation to work on the batteries at Vicksburg. The 4th planted the first guns that ever frowned down from the “Hill City”.
On May 30, 1862, Corinth was evacuated. With the approach of a superior force of union troops from Shiloh, Beauregard, with great skill and secrecy withdrew his army to Tupelo, Miss., 52 miles to the south. With Corinth went Fort Pillow, Memphis, all of west Tenn., northern Miss. and the river down to Vicksburg.
In early June all of the 4th were detailed to Vicksburg where six batteries were constructed. One under fire from the enemy! On June 28, the regiment was relieved of service at the batteries and went on picket duty. That same day, a union fleet including forty gunboats, mortar boats, rams, and transports appeared before the town. Later, they glimpsed the confederate ram “Arkansas” as she dashed along a gauntlet of fire through the midst of the federal fleet to join the defenders of Vicksburg.
While the 4th was on picket duty, the men were ab1e to catch glimpses of union soldiers across the Mississippi. The siege of Vicksburg continued however, punctuated by irregular bombardments day and night. Towards the end of July 1862, the 4th La. left Vicksburg for Camp Moore, La.
On Jul 27, 1862, an expedition under command of General John C. Breckenridge, former democratic candidate for President, was sent into south La. to drive the federal forces out of baton Rouge. They planned to recapture Baton Rouge and New Orleans with the help of the ram “Arkansas”.
On Sunday morning, Aug. 3, the troops left Camp Moore and headed West. The 4th La. was the worse for wear and tear with many men sick and equipment in poor shape. Many fell out along the way with the hot weather weakening them.
By the end of the second days march, Breckenridge and the 4th LA. army reached Greenwell Springs, a few miles East of Baton Rouge. At 10 p.m., the commanding General was informed that the “Arkansas” had passed Bayou Sara; an indication that she would reach her goal on time. Shortly after midnight, the troops were in the vicinity of Baton Rouge, which was defended by a land force of about 2500 men, supported by several gunboats on the river.
The attackers found their positions and waited for dawn. Tension mounted until an accident destroyed all the elements of the surprise. Cavalry scouts, after encountering northern pickets and exchanging shots, fell back in the darkness toward their lines. The southern troops opened fire on what they thought were enemy horsemen, killing one, wounding several others and completely alerting the defenders of the city. Breckenridge, realizing he could wait no longer, ordered his troops into battle without the “Arkansas”.
The confederates pushed forward with the daylight. General Dan Ruggles’ command in the left front was the first to be engaged. There were two brigades under Ruggles. One of these, (the 4th, 13th and the LA. Battalion) were under command of Allen. Four pieces of artillery were attached. The other brigade was on the left of the above mentioned, and in contact with Thompsons Brigade. Cavalry were sent to protect the line from flank attack. General Ruggles’ entire second division consisted of about 700 men. The skirmish line was dangerously thin and reserves of infantry and artillery were scanty.
The morning was very foggy when Allen gave the order to advance. His men moved forward through the woods, underbrush, cornfields, fences, and finally came to an open field bordered on the left by a thick hedge. In this area, the men made contact with the enemy pickets who fired on them as they struggled through underbrush and briar. The fog offered concealment to both sides. As the 4th advanced, a drummer boy stumbled and fell and broke the lacing of his shoe. He bent down to make the necessary repair, a move which made it possible for him to see under the fog. Only a short distance away, he saw a row of rifle butts accompanied by a line of feet above which were some unmistakably Yankee trousers. The boy quickly told his commander and the men got prepared. As the fog lifted, Allen’s men poured a surprise volley into them which caused them to retreat. By this time, however, a Yankee artillery outfit found the range and showered the troops with grapeshot.
The men delivered several quick volleys in succession and the enemy fled in every direction taking his artillery with him. The 4th started in pursuit and after considerable desultory firing on the retreating foe, they discovered a battery (Said to be Nims), supported by a large amount of infantry. The 4th prepared to attack!
To encourage the 9th La. which had never been under fire before, Allen carried their colors forward...as he led a charge on the federal cannon. He spurred his horse forward to charge cannon being loaded with grapeshot. Allen led his men across 300 yards of open field “under a galling fire of grape, canister, and minnie”. He was within 50 paces of the cannon when it fired. The horse and rider absorbed the full force of the blast and collapsed in a shattered heap. The charge was successful. A confederate wave Swept over the union artillery capturing men and guns. But once the battery had fallen; the men turned back to cluster around their stricken leader.
It completely paralyzed the 4th. Notwithstanding his repeated orders to go forward, it became confused and huddled up; lost in a maze of stolidity, and dismay. Finally, the 4th, after being rallied remained in position for about two hours, exposed to the summer sun and waiting further orders.
Rumor had it that General Breckenridge was waiting for the “Arkansas”. Advancing into the city would be futile without the “Arkansas”. About 4 o’clock it was learned that the Arkansas had not arrived. The ram had been within 5 miles of Baton Rouge when her machinery broke down. She was set afire and scuttled to avoid capture. Towards evening, the confederates began to fall back. On the 21st the federals evacuated Baton Rouge. In Oct. the 4th La. went to Port Hudson and was the first to fortify Port Hudson.
The Confederacy experienced considerable difficulty in obtaining guns to mount at Port Hudson. The federals had a large gunboat, “The Essex”. In the Mississippi above Baton Rouge and thus heavy guns could not be brought in by boat. The only means of acquiring them was over the Clinton and Port Hudson RR that led through Piney Woods. The guns were cast in the foundry at Osyka, Miss., hauled to Clinton by wagon then shipped by rail to Port Hudson and emplaced by the 4th La.
On April 17 1863, Benjamin Grierson left La Grange, Tenn., on what was to become known to history as “Grierson’s Raid”. This cavalry raid was made through Tenn., Miss., and La. for 16 days destroying railroads and public property. His 1700 men caused great destruction and consternation in those states (supposedly safe deep in the heart of the confederacy) and served as a means of pulling troops away from the Vicksburg area which was facing attack by Grant.
On May 1, the 4th La. was sent from Port Hudson to intercept the raiders; leaving a detachment under Capt. Charles T. Whitman behind that was later lost when Port Hudson fell. However, May 2, 1863, after having been of almost terrifying assistance to Grants’ campaign. Grierson and his men emerged at Baton Rouge, La. Failing to intercept Grierson’s Raiders, the 4th was ordered to hurry northward and join Johnston’s army at Jackson, Miss., and co-operate in efforts to relieve Vicksburg.
The 4th was ordered to big black Creek where they expected to receive orders to break through the swamp and attack Grant’s rear. But on July 6, they were instructed to immediately retreat to Jackson, Miss., with all speed possible. The 4th marched 35 miles without a halt. On July 9th, General Sherman commanded three union corps to advance on Jackson, Miss., and lay siege to the city. On July 11, the siege began lasting until July 17,1863. When he found that the confederates had withdrawn during the night to the east, Sherman entered the city. Destroying all communication lines and gutting the city by fire, he then retreated to Vicksburg.
On Aug 7, the 4th was ordered to Enterprise, Miss., to prevent the advance of Federal Cavalry. On Aug 30, 1863 the 4th left Enterprise for Mobile for garrison duty.
General Joe Johnston assumed command of the army of Tenn. on Dec. 18, 1863. He found at Dalton an army of about 36,000 effective infantry and artillery with 5,000 cavalry. In his front was soon massed a federal army of about 100,000 with Sherman in command.
By the end of the second days march, Breckenridge and the 4th LA. army reached Greenwell Springs, a few miles East of Baton Rouge. At 10 p.m., the commanding General was informed that the “Arkansas” had passed Bayou Sara; an indication that she would reach her goal on time. Shortly after midnight, the troops were in the vicinity of Baton Rouge, which was defended by a land force of about 2500 men, supported by several gunboats on the river.
The attackers found their positions and waited for dawn. Tension mounted until an accident destroyed all the elements of the surprise. Cavalry scouts, after encountering northern pickets and exchanging shots, fell back in the darkness toward their lines. The southern troops opened fire on what they thought were enemy horsemen, killing one, wounding several others and completely alerting the defenders of the city. Breckenridge, realizing he could wait no longer, ordered his troops into battle without the “Arkansas”.
The confederates pushed forward with the daylight. General Dan Ruggles’ command in the left front was the first to be engaged. There were two brigades under Ruggles. One of these, (the 4th, 13th and the LA. Battalion) were under command of Allen. Four pieces of artillery were attached. The other brigade was on the left of the above mentioned, and in contact with Thompsons Brigade. Cavalry were sent to protect the line from flank attack. General Ruggles’ entire second division consisted of about 700 men. The skirmish line was dangerously thin and reserves of infantry and artillery were scanty.
The morning was very foggy when Allen gave the order to advance. His men moved forward through the woods, underbrush, cornfields, fences, and finally came to an open field bordered on the left by a thick hedge. In this area, the men made contact with the enemy pickets who fired on them as they struggled through underbrush and briar. The fog offered concealment to both sides. As the 4th advanced, a drummer boy stumbled and fell and broke the lacing of his shoe. He bent down to make the necessary repair, a move which made it possible for him to see under the fog. Only a short distance away, he saw a row of rifle butts accompanied by a line of feet above which were some unmistakably Yankee trousers. The boy quickly told his commander and the men got prepared. As the fog lifted, Allen’s men poured a surprise volley into them which caused them to retreat. By this time, however, a Yankee artillery outfit found the range and showered the troops with grapeshot.
The men delivered several quick volleys in succession and the enemy fled in every direction taking his artillery with him. The 4th started in pursuit and after considerable desultory firing on the retreating foe, they discovered a battery (Said to be Nims), supported by a large amount of infantry. The 4th prepared to attack!
To encourage the 9th La. which had never been under fire before, Allen carried their colors forward...as he led a charge on the federal cannon. He spurred his horse forward to charge cannon being loaded with grapeshot. Allen led his men across 300 yards of open field “under a galling fire of grape, canister, and minnie”. He was within 50 paces of the cannon when it fired. The horse and rider absorbed the full force of the blast and collapsed in a shattered heap. The charge was successful. A confederate wave Swept over the union artillery capturing men and guns. But once the battery had fallen; the men turned back to cluster around their stricken leader.
It completely paralyzed the 4th. Notwithstanding his repeated orders to go forward, it became confused and huddled up; lost in a maze of stolidity, and dismay. Finally, the 4th, after being rallied remained in position for about two hours, exposed to the summer sun and waiting further orders.
Rumor had it that General Breckenridge was waiting for the “Arkansas”. Advancing into the city would be futile without the “Arkansas”. About 4 o’clock it was learned that the Arkansas had not arrived. The ram had been within 5 miles of Baton Rouge when her machinery broke down. She was set afire and scuttled to avoid capture. Towards evening, the confederates began to fall back. On the 21st the federals evacuated Baton Rouge. In Oct. the 4th La. went to Port Hudson and was the first to fortify Port Hudson.
The Confederacy experienced considerable difficulty in obtaining guns to mount at Port Hudson. The federals had a large gunboat, “The Essex”. In the Mississippi above Baton Rouge and thus heavy guns could not be brought in by boat. The only means of acquiring them was over the Clinton and Port Hudson RR that led through Piney Woods. The guns were cast in the foundry at Osyka, Miss., hauled to Clinton by wagon then shipped by rail to Port Hudson and emplaced by the 4th La.
On April 17 1863, Benjamin Grierson left La Grange, Tenn., on what was to become known to history as “Grierson’s Raid”. This cavalry raid was made through Tenn., Miss., and La. for 16 days destroying railroads and public property. His 1700 men caused great destruction and consternation in those states (supposedly safe deep in the heart of the confederacy) and served as a means of pulling troops away from the Vicksburg area which was facing attack by Grant.
On May 1, the 4th La. was sent from Port Hudson to intercept the raiders; leaving a detachment under Capt. Charles T. Whitman behind that was later lost when Port Hudson fell. However, May 2, 1863, after having been of almost terrifying assistance to Grants’ campaign. Grierson and his men emerged at Baton Rouge, La. Failing to intercept Grierson’s Raiders, the 4th was ordered to hurry northward and join Johnston’s army at Jackson, Miss., and co-operate in efforts to relieve Vicksburg.
The 4th was ordered to big black Creek where they expected to receive orders to break through the swamp and attack Grant’s rear. But on July 6, they were instructed to immediately retreat to Jackson, Miss., with all speed possible. The 4th marched 35 miles without a halt. On July 9th, General Sherman commanded three union corps to advance on Jackson, Miss., and lay siege to the city. On July 11, the siege began lasting until July 17,1863. When he found that the confederates had withdrawn during the night to the east, Sherman entered the city. Destroying all communication lines and gutting the city by fire, he then retreated to Vicksburg.
On Aug 7, the 4th was ordered to Enterprise, Miss., to prevent the advance of Federal Cavalry. On Aug 30, 1863 the 4th left Enterprise for Mobile for garrison duty.
General Joe Johnston assumed command of the army of Tenn. on Dec. 18, 1863. He found at Dalton an army of about 36,000 effective infantry and artillery with 5,000 cavalry. In his front was soon massed a federal army of about 100,000 with Sherman in command.
The 4th was transferred to Dalton in late Dec. of 1863 but in February of 1864, word came to Johnston from General Polk in Miss. that Sherman was advancing east from Vicksburg with an army of 35,000. Polk reported that the federals had crossed the river at Jackson and were heading for Meridian and then Mobile. On orders from President Davis, Johnston sent several regiments back to assist in the defense of Mobile. Among these was the 4th.
In April of 1864, the 4th was again ordered back to Dalton to reinforce Johnston’s army of Tenn.
On May 5, 1864, General Sherman moved from fortified positions near Rocky Face Ridge, Georgia, as the opening maneuver of the Atlanta Campaign. His mission was to attack and destroy Joe Johnston’s army of Tenn. and to capture Atlanta, the great nerve center of Southern communications. In the meager reports available of the Georgia Campaign, one catches glimpses of the 4th La.
In late May, 1864, the 4th was ordered to Marietta, Georgia. Arriving May 25th, the men were immediately detrained to reinforce confederate forces at New Hope Church where bitter fighting was in progress. Georgia was a vast morass from the constant downpour. At New Hope Church, northeast of Dallas, the rough land was a quagmire. Troops, horses, caissons became mired in a sea of mud.
“Fighting Joe” Hooker was to throw three divisions of union infantry at the well entrenched confederate infantry. Three times in succession, starting in late afternoon of the 25th, Hookers forces tried to storm the line, only to be repulsed with frightful losses. The federals, finally withdraw at midnight, irreverently christened New Hope Church the “Hell Hole”.
The next day, both sides clung to their trenches in the mud and rain. The lines were so close that taunting calls traveled back and forth. “Hey, Reb! How far is it to Atlanta?” “Too far for you to ever get there!” There was not much more than skirmishing and artillery fire throughout the day.
The following afternoon, May 27, Yankee forces tried again! The fighting lasted until after dark. The “Battle of Hell Hole” losses were staggering. A survivor said: “… hundreds beyond hundreds, in every conceivable position; some with contorted features, showing the agony of death, others as if sleeping…, some with soft, beardless faces, which ill comported with the savage warfare in which they had been engaged.
The engagement of New Hope Church or “Hell Hole” cost union losses of 3000 men, against confederate losses of 300. It changed the character of the campaign. From now on, trench warfare as opposed to fighting in the open, would be practiced by both armies.
The battle of New hope Church was quickly followed by Kennesaw mountain. The attempt to hold the Chattahoochee, the retreat across it, the relief of General Johnston by General John B. Hood, the fierce battles ran from July 20 to 28. It is felt that the 4th may have participated in all of these. During these Battles, the 4th and the 30th La. were serving with the Tennessee Brigade under the command of General Quarles. At some time during these battles, both were transferred to Randel L. Gibson’s Louisiana Brigade. The final battle of Ezra Church found the 4th La. in the thick of the fighting.
In April of 1864, the 4th was again ordered back to Dalton to reinforce Johnston’s army of Tenn.
On May 5, 1864, General Sherman moved from fortified positions near Rocky Face Ridge, Georgia, as the opening maneuver of the Atlanta Campaign. His mission was to attack and destroy Joe Johnston’s army of Tenn. and to capture Atlanta, the great nerve center of Southern communications. In the meager reports available of the Georgia Campaign, one catches glimpses of the 4th La.
In late May, 1864, the 4th was ordered to Marietta, Georgia. Arriving May 25th, the men were immediately detrained to reinforce confederate forces at New Hope Church where bitter fighting was in progress. Georgia was a vast morass from the constant downpour. At New Hope Church, northeast of Dallas, the rough land was a quagmire. Troops, horses, caissons became mired in a sea of mud.
“Fighting Joe” Hooker was to throw three divisions of union infantry at the well entrenched confederate infantry. Three times in succession, starting in late afternoon of the 25th, Hookers forces tried to storm the line, only to be repulsed with frightful losses. The federals, finally withdraw at midnight, irreverently christened New Hope Church the “Hell Hole”.
The next day, both sides clung to their trenches in the mud and rain. The lines were so close that taunting calls traveled back and forth. “Hey, Reb! How far is it to Atlanta?” “Too far for you to ever get there!” There was not much more than skirmishing and artillery fire throughout the day.
The following afternoon, May 27, Yankee forces tried again! The fighting lasted until after dark. The “Battle of Hell Hole” losses were staggering. A survivor said: “… hundreds beyond hundreds, in every conceivable position; some with contorted features, showing the agony of death, others as if sleeping…, some with soft, beardless faces, which ill comported with the savage warfare in which they had been engaged.
The engagement of New Hope Church or “Hell Hole” cost union losses of 3000 men, against confederate losses of 300. It changed the character of the campaign. From now on, trench warfare as opposed to fighting in the open, would be practiced by both armies.
The battle of New hope Church was quickly followed by Kennesaw mountain. The attempt to hold the Chattahoochee, the retreat across it, the relief of General Johnston by General John B. Hood, the fierce battles ran from July 20 to 28. It is felt that the 4th may have participated in all of these. During these Battles, the 4th and the 30th La. were serving with the Tennessee Brigade under the command of General Quarles. At some time during these battles, both were transferred to Randel L. Gibson’s Louisiana Brigade. The final battle of Ezra Church found the 4th La. in the thick of the fighting.
Strategically, there was a “race” between the union infantry and cavalry to get to one of the many soft points below Atlanta. From Atlanta, Stephen Lee’s confederate corps marched to intercept the Yankee General Howard. Wheelers and Jacksons southern cavalry raced toward Macon to check Stone man and McCook.
On the morning of July 28, Howard’s troops had reached the little log chapel known as Ezra Church where they skirmished briefly with confederate pickets. With no time to spare, the union soldiers all but tore the church apart to build hasty breastworks facing south on rising ground above Liskskillet Road.
Around noon, confederate General Lee swung confidently toward Liskskillet Road suddenly to discover he had been beaten to the punch. His orders were to take possession of the crossroads, establish a strong defense line, and not attack unless the enemy exposed himself. But here was the enemy already entrenched on the ground he was supposed to occupy!
On the morning of July 28, Howard’s troops had reached the little log chapel known as Ezra Church where they skirmished briefly with confederate pickets. With no time to spare, the union soldiers all but tore the church apart to build hasty breastworks facing south on rising ground above Liskskillet Road.
Around noon, confederate General Lee swung confidently toward Liskskillet Road suddenly to discover he had been beaten to the punch. His orders were to take possession of the crossroads, establish a strong defense line, and not attack unless the enemy exposed himself. But here was the enemy already entrenched on the ground he was supposed to occupy!
Lee had not seen active combat for two years, but knew that nothing would be gained by hesitation. With no tine to organize an orderly advance, he gave an order to attack, flinging his forces in uncoordinated charges, wave after wave, against the union lines.
The first units to advance, waving their muskets with defiant rebel yells, found themselves tangled in thickets and underbrush. Like trapped animals, they struggled to get free while union rifles picked them off with cold precision. As those left standing started to withdraw, another wave would come up behind them, struggling over the dead and wounded. The federals crouched behind their chapel pews and holy timbers and racked up confederates in windrows two and three deep then poured out of their breastworks to finish slaughter with knives and bayonets.
What started out as a small engagement became a major battle. Both sides called for reinforcements. For three hours, the confederates with a desperation born of the trap they had stumbled into. The battle was, in the words of a union general, “one that for severity, is unsurpassed by any of the campaign”. One confederate noted, “the litters were as bloody as if hogs had been stuck on them; The flagstaffs were shot to pieces, colors were shot into ribbons.” In a pause between clashes, one union soldier called across to the southern lines. “Well Johnny, how many of you are left?” “Oh, about enough for killing,” was the dispirited answer.
By dusk the battle of Ezra Church was over. The confederate forces lost 5,000 men including four wounded generals. The north lost fewer than 700. Out of 240 men present for duty in the 4th, 82 were casualties. Approximately 30% in one day.
Sherman tried an extensive maneuver around the city of Atlanta similar to the one that resulted in the battle of Ezra Church. He moved his force to East Point, Georgia, about six miles southwest of Atlanta. His troops were busy destroying about 13 miles of railroad line in conjunction with other union forces.
The confederate forces arrived on the scene August 30, 1864, about midafternoon. They found the union forces entrenched and ready. The confederates attacked but like Ezra Church, it was slipshod and uncoordinated. The different divisions attacked separately without regard to timing, hurling themselves against the outnumbered but well-entrenched Federals.
The slaughter was frightful. From 1500 to 2000 confederates fell before the steady union musket fire. The union forces lost 300 men!
According to Gibson, commander of the La. Brigade, “my line moved forward with great enthusiasm and went beyond the fence into the thicket in which the enemy’s rifle pits were. When a few men halting at the fence and lodging in the skirmish pits began to fire, and soon the whole line fired, halted, and finally gave way. A few of the men got up to the works of the enemy and some inside them. They found the enemy being reinforced while their own commands were retiring. They had consequently to abandon the posts they had won. With noble spirits the men reformed and advanced again to the hopeless slaughter. The 4th, under Col. Hunter, made a gallant assault; striking the most important part of the line. But, they had not the strength alone to break it.” This battle, known as Battle of Jonesboro, resulted in the fall of Atlanta. The 4th, which began with 110 men came out of the battle with 43.
On September 19, 1864, the 4th was camped 25 miles southwest of Atlanta on the Montgomery and Selma Railroad. Hood sought to reorganize and re-inspire the army whose morale had been severely damaged by the loss of Atlanta and the steady retreat. Hoods plan was to swing around Atlanta to the west, cut Sherman’s communications and attempt to draw him into the mountainous section of northwest Georgia and find a favorable time to attack.
Early in October, Hood started north. By the 2nd of November, his troops were on the railroad between Atlanta and the Etowah River. The next day, detachments captured Big Shanty, and Acworth. On the 5th, the fortified post at Allatoona Pass was attacked. Sherman moved part of his force out of Atlanta and marched north. Hood then swung West, crossed the river below Rome and again struck the railroad between Rescue & Dalton.
On Oct. 13, Dalton was captured. By the 16th the confederate commander decided to campaign into Tenn. and Oct. 17 the army headed toward Gadsden, Ala.
At Gadsden, Hood was joined by General Beauregard who was in command of a newly created department which stretched from the South Carolina coast to the Miss. river. Beauregard agreed to Hood’s invasion of Tenn. River at or near Guntersville and destroy Sherman communications at Stevenson & Bridgeport, then move on Thomas and Schofield and attempt to rout and capture their army before it could reach Nashville. Then, march into Kentucky where he would threaten Cincinnati. If Sherman would follow and attack, Hood thought he was strong enough to defeat him. This accomplished, he would send reinforcements to Lee in Va. or better yet, march across the mountains and attack Grant in the rear.
If Sherman didn’t attack, he would join Lee and destroy Grant. Then both would turn on Sherman. On Nov. 21, the confederate army crossed at Tuscumbia bound for middle Tenn. Hood attacked Franklin, Tenn., and suffered appalling losses. He then moved to Nashville where on Dec. 15, the confederate army was shattered in one of the most complete victories won by a union army during the war.
From Dec. 1 to 15, Gibson brigade, of whom the 4th was attached, had been working incessantly on the entrenchments before Nashville. On the 15th the union General Thomas came out of his entrenchments and struck Hoods army. Gibson brigade was taken out of the trenches and thrown perpendicular to check the enemy advance. At midnight, they were moved back to Overton’s Hill on the extreme right of the army. Early on the afternoon of the 16th, they sustained an assault which was repulsed with slaughter. From 9 in the morning, Gibson brigade had been under constant artillery fire. Between 3 & 4 o’clock, they learned that the entire left of the army had given way. Then they moved to the rear, marching in good order and saving the battery they supported. On the morning of the 17th, the 4th and 13th La. was put on guard in the rear and while there, was attacked and most of the men were either killed or captured.
The few survivors were added to the 16th La. They continued to serve with the 16th La. until Jan. 12, 1865, when the 4th was partially reorganized and ordered to Mobile.
On Feb. 3, 1865, they arrived at Camp Moore. A few days later they helped to defend Spanish Fort in one of the last actions of the war.
At the final muster, less than 40 men of the 4th La. answered!!
Click here to read a post-war address about the Delta Rifles.
The first units to advance, waving their muskets with defiant rebel yells, found themselves tangled in thickets and underbrush. Like trapped animals, they struggled to get free while union rifles picked them off with cold precision. As those left standing started to withdraw, another wave would come up behind them, struggling over the dead and wounded. The federals crouched behind their chapel pews and holy timbers and racked up confederates in windrows two and three deep then poured out of their breastworks to finish slaughter with knives and bayonets.
What started out as a small engagement became a major battle. Both sides called for reinforcements. For three hours, the confederates with a desperation born of the trap they had stumbled into. The battle was, in the words of a union general, “one that for severity, is unsurpassed by any of the campaign”. One confederate noted, “the litters were as bloody as if hogs had been stuck on them; The flagstaffs were shot to pieces, colors were shot into ribbons.” In a pause between clashes, one union soldier called across to the southern lines. “Well Johnny, how many of you are left?” “Oh, about enough for killing,” was the dispirited answer.
By dusk the battle of Ezra Church was over. The confederate forces lost 5,000 men including four wounded generals. The north lost fewer than 700. Out of 240 men present for duty in the 4th, 82 were casualties. Approximately 30% in one day.
Sherman tried an extensive maneuver around the city of Atlanta similar to the one that resulted in the battle of Ezra Church. He moved his force to East Point, Georgia, about six miles southwest of Atlanta. His troops were busy destroying about 13 miles of railroad line in conjunction with other union forces.
The confederate forces arrived on the scene August 30, 1864, about midafternoon. They found the union forces entrenched and ready. The confederates attacked but like Ezra Church, it was slipshod and uncoordinated. The different divisions attacked separately without regard to timing, hurling themselves against the outnumbered but well-entrenched Federals.
The slaughter was frightful. From 1500 to 2000 confederates fell before the steady union musket fire. The union forces lost 300 men!
According to Gibson, commander of the La. Brigade, “my line moved forward with great enthusiasm and went beyond the fence into the thicket in which the enemy’s rifle pits were. When a few men halting at the fence and lodging in the skirmish pits began to fire, and soon the whole line fired, halted, and finally gave way. A few of the men got up to the works of the enemy and some inside them. They found the enemy being reinforced while their own commands were retiring. They had consequently to abandon the posts they had won. With noble spirits the men reformed and advanced again to the hopeless slaughter. The 4th, under Col. Hunter, made a gallant assault; striking the most important part of the line. But, they had not the strength alone to break it.” This battle, known as Battle of Jonesboro, resulted in the fall of Atlanta. The 4th, which began with 110 men came out of the battle with 43.
On September 19, 1864, the 4th was camped 25 miles southwest of Atlanta on the Montgomery and Selma Railroad. Hood sought to reorganize and re-inspire the army whose morale had been severely damaged by the loss of Atlanta and the steady retreat. Hoods plan was to swing around Atlanta to the west, cut Sherman’s communications and attempt to draw him into the mountainous section of northwest Georgia and find a favorable time to attack.
Early in October, Hood started north. By the 2nd of November, his troops were on the railroad between Atlanta and the Etowah River. The next day, detachments captured Big Shanty, and Acworth. On the 5th, the fortified post at Allatoona Pass was attacked. Sherman moved part of his force out of Atlanta and marched north. Hood then swung West, crossed the river below Rome and again struck the railroad between Rescue & Dalton.
On Oct. 13, Dalton was captured. By the 16th the confederate commander decided to campaign into Tenn. and Oct. 17 the army headed toward Gadsden, Ala.
At Gadsden, Hood was joined by General Beauregard who was in command of a newly created department which stretched from the South Carolina coast to the Miss. river. Beauregard agreed to Hood’s invasion of Tenn. River at or near Guntersville and destroy Sherman communications at Stevenson & Bridgeport, then move on Thomas and Schofield and attempt to rout and capture their army before it could reach Nashville. Then, march into Kentucky where he would threaten Cincinnati. If Sherman would follow and attack, Hood thought he was strong enough to defeat him. This accomplished, he would send reinforcements to Lee in Va. or better yet, march across the mountains and attack Grant in the rear.
If Sherman didn’t attack, he would join Lee and destroy Grant. Then both would turn on Sherman. On Nov. 21, the confederate army crossed at Tuscumbia bound for middle Tenn. Hood attacked Franklin, Tenn., and suffered appalling losses. He then moved to Nashville where on Dec. 15, the confederate army was shattered in one of the most complete victories won by a union army during the war.
From Dec. 1 to 15, Gibson brigade, of whom the 4th was attached, had been working incessantly on the entrenchments before Nashville. On the 15th the union General Thomas came out of his entrenchments and struck Hoods army. Gibson brigade was taken out of the trenches and thrown perpendicular to check the enemy advance. At midnight, they were moved back to Overton’s Hill on the extreme right of the army. Early on the afternoon of the 16th, they sustained an assault which was repulsed with slaughter. From 9 in the morning, Gibson brigade had been under constant artillery fire. Between 3 & 4 o’clock, they learned that the entire left of the army had given way. Then they moved to the rear, marching in good order and saving the battery they supported. On the morning of the 17th, the 4th and 13th La. was put on guard in the rear and while there, was attacked and most of the men were either killed or captured.
The few survivors were added to the 16th La. They continued to serve with the 16th La. until Jan. 12, 1865, when the 4th was partially reorganized and ordered to Mobile.
On Feb. 3, 1865, they arrived at Camp Moore. A few days later they helped to defend Spanish Fort in one of the last actions of the war.
At the final muster, less than 40 men of the 4th La. answered!!
Click here to read a post-war address about the Delta Rifles.
Here is a surviving fragment of the company flag of the Delta Rifles: