Battle of Jerusalem Plank Road

Dates: June 21-24, 1864

Other Names: First Battle of Weldon Railroad

Location: Jerusalem Plank Road, Virginia

Key Individuals Involved in the Battle of Jerusalem Plank Road: Union: Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant and Major General George G. Meade
Confederate: General Robert E. Lee

Outcome: Union gained ground. 4000 total casualties

Overview of the Battle : On June 21, the Union II Corps, supported by the VI Corps, attempted to cut the Weldon Railroad, one of the major supply lines into Petersburg. The movement was preceded by Wilson’s cavalry division which began destroying tracks. On June 22, troops from Lt. Gen. A.P. Hill’s corps led by Brig. Gen. William Mahone counterattacked, forcing the II Corps away from the railroad to positions on the Jerusalem Plank Road. Although the Federals were driven from their advanced positions, they were able to extend their siege lines farther to the west.
Source: CWSAC Battle Summaries