June 25, 1864---The Battle of Staunton River Bridge

JUNE 25, 1864:           

The Battle of Staunton River Bridge. Having been unsuccessful in cutting the Weldon Railroad to the south, General Grant orders an attack on the Richmond and Danville Line to the southwest, hoping to cut that supply line. Union cavalry units numbering about 5,000 dispatched to do the job run into a Confederate force of only 300 State Militia and reservists (mostly old men and young boys) who hold off the Union attack until General Rooney Lee arrives with 3,500 Regular Cavalry troopers. Knowing that the game is up if the line is cut, they fight like wildcats. Although Union troops reach the line in one place they are thrown back before they can do any damage. The Union forces withdraw at day’s end, having suffered 120 casualties. The Confederates suffer 35. 

June 24, 1864---The Battle of St. Mary's Church

JUNE 24, 1864:          

The Battle of St. Mary’s Church. Frustrated in his attempt to link up with the retreating General David Hunter after leaving Trevilian Station, General Philip Sheridan U.S.A. decides to return to the battle front around Petersburg. He and his cavalry make a detour to White House, Virginia, to seize an impressive supply train meant for Petersburg. The diversion to White House allows General Wade Hampton C.S.A.’s cavalry to catch up with Sheridan. For one of the few times in the war, the Confederates enjoy a superiority in numbers on the field --- 2-to-1. Hampton wants very much to destroy Sheridan’s force, but he also desperately needs those supplies. A violent but ultimately inconclusive battle ensues. Both sides take about 300 casualties. The Union force withdraws, some units abandoning their wounded. However, they also withdraw with the supply train intact. Although Wade Hampton is later lionized in Southern memory, as, it seems, are most of their cavalry commanders --- Stuart, Mosby, Morgan, Forrest, Shelby, and Hampton included ---  he seems to stalemate Sheridan more than checkmate him.