155 Years: Cedar Creek

October 19, 1864 – one hundred fifty-five years ago – saw battlefield surprises in the Shenandoah Valley. First, the Confederates under General Jubal Early launched a surprise attack on the Union army and managed to drive three corps from positions. Then, after a dramatic journey, Union General Phil Sheridan arrived, helped rally the army, and counterattacked, driving back the Confederates. Cedar Creek’s fight marked the last major Confederate offensive in the Shenandoah Valley. With hindsight, it’s also a battle that helped Lincoln win reelection in November 1864.

For the anniversary, we’ve collected some blog posts from our archives about this important battle and also added a American Battlefield Trust’s animated battle map for Cedar Creek which provides a great overview.

Remembering the “Great Gamble” at Cedar Creek

Shenandoah Subordinates: Little Phil and a Big Valley

“On Many a Bloody Field”: The Forgotten Story of Daniel Davidson Bidwell

Stand in the Cemetery: George Washington Getty and the Battle of Cedar Creek

A Chance at Redemption: George Custer and the Shenandoah Valley Campaign of 1864

Sketches from the Shenandoah: Union Hospital in Middletown

Sketches from the Shenandoah: Sheridan’s Rally

Sketches from the Shenandoah: The Wounding of Charles Russell Lowell

Sketches from the Shenandoah: The Wounding of Stephen Ramseur



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