March 20, 1863---The Battle of Vaught's Hill

MARCH 20, 1863:     

A follow-up to the Battle of Stones River that took place over New Year's 1862-1863, the Battle of Vaught's Hill, Tennessee, began when a Union reconnaissance "in force" encountered Confederate cavalry. The Union troops fell back, but when pursued, they gave battle. Although the Union force was encircled on Vaught's Hill, the Confederates were unable to take the hill or inflict a defeat. The Gray cavalry broke off the attack when Union reinforcements came to relieve the defenders. Although a minor engagement, the Battle of Vaught's Hill marked a local turning point in the war, as Tennessee Confederates were put on the defense, never again regaining the offensive in central Tennessee.