Today in History:

Secessionville

Battle Name: Secessionville
Other Names: Ft. Lamar, James Island
State: South Carolina
Location: City of Charleston
Campaign: Operations against Charleston (June 1862)
Dates: June 16, 1862
Principal Commanders: Brig. Gen. Henry Benham [US]; Brig. Gen. Nathan Evans [CS]
Forces Engaged: 8,600 total (US 6,600; CS 2,000)
Estimated Casualties: 889 total (US 685; CS 204)
Description: Early June 1862, Maj. Gen. David Hunter transported Horatio G. Wright’s and Isaac I. Stevens’s Union divisions under immediate direction of Brig. Gen. Henry Benham to James Island where they entrenched at Grimball’s Landing near the southern flank of the Confederate defenses. On June 16, contrary to Hunter’s orders, Benham launched an unsuccessful frontal assault against Fort Lamar at Secessionville. Because Benham was said to have disobeyed orders, Hunter relieved him of command.
Results: Confederate victory

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