Battle Name: |
Blountsville |
Other Names: |
None |
State: |
Tennessee |
Location: |
Sullivan County |
Campaign: |
East Tennessee Campaign (1863) |
Dates: |
September 22, 1863 |
Principal Commanders: |
Col. John W. Foster [US]; Col. James E. Carter [CS] |
Forces Engaged: |
2nd Brigade, 4th Division, XXIII Army Corps, Department of the Ohio [US]; 1st Tennessee
Cavalry Regiment and Artillery (approx. 1,200) [CS] |
Estimated Casualties: |
192 total (US 27; CS 165) |
Description: |
Maj. Gen. Ambrose Burnside, commander of the Department of the Ohio, undertook an expedition
into East Tennessee to clear the roads and gaps to Virginia, and, if possible, secure the saltworks beyond
Abingdon. On September 22, Union Col. John W. Foster with his cavalry and artillery engaged Col. James E.
Carter and his troops at Blountsville. Foster attacked at noon and in the four-hour battle, shelled the town and
initiated a flanking movement, compelling the Confederates to withdraw. Blountsville was the initial step in the
Union’s attempt to force Confederate Maj. Gen. Sam Jones and his command to retire from East Tennessee. |
Results: |
Union victory |