In a period of relative inactivity following the Battle of Stones River, a reinforced Union infantry brigade, under Col. John Coburn, left Franklin to reconnoiter south toward Columbia.
Four miles from Spring Hill, Coburn attacked with his right wing, a Confederate force composed of two regiments; he was repelled. Then, Major General Van Dorn seized the initiative. Brig. General W.H. "Red" Jackson's dismounted 2nd Division made a frontal attack, while Brig. General Nathan Bedford Forrest's division swept around Coburn's left flank, and into his rear.
After three attempts, characterized by hard fighting, Jackson carried the Union hilltop position as Forrest captured Coburn's wagon train and blocked the road to Columbia in his rear.
Out of ammunition and surrounded, Coburn surrendered. Union influence in Middle Tennessee subsided for a while.
Result(s): Confederate victory
Location: Williamson County
Campaign: Middle Tennessee Operations (1863)
Date(s): March 5, 1863
Principal Commanders: Col. John Coburn [US]; Major General Earl Van Dorn [CS]
Forces Engaged: Infantry brigade [US]; I Cavalry Corps [CS]
Estimated Casualties: 2,206 total (US 1,906; CS 300)
