FEBRUARY 26, 1864:
The Battle
of Rio Hill. General George Custer raids an ammunition dump near Albemarle,
Virginia, scattering the Confederate forces in the area. During the destruction
of the dump, an uncontrolled explosion convinces Custer that his men are under
attack.
In the smoke and flame and fog of war, the Union troops open fire on
each other. After realizing his error, Custer regroups his men and leaves the
ruined dump, which is quickly reoccupied and resupplied by the Confederates.
Two days later, Custer’s men raid the dump again in an inconclusive skirmish.