Cool Spring
Island Ford, Parkers Ford
Civil War in Virginia

American Civil War
July 17-18, 1864

A Union column, consisting of the VI Corps and elements of the XIX Corps under Major General Horatio Wright, pursued Early's army as it withdrew from the environs of Washington, D.C.

Wright's force was joined by elements of Crook's command, which had accompanied Hunter during his retreat through West Virginia. 

On July 17, the Union cavalry passed through Snickers Gap and attempted to force passage of the Shenandoah River at Snickers Ford (Castleman's Ferry).

On the morning of July 18, the vanguard of the Union infantry moved through Snickers Gap. Col. Joseph Thoburn (of Crook's command) led his division downstream to cross the river at Judge Richard Parker's Ford.

Early's three nearby infantry divisions moved to defend the fords. In the afternoon, Rodes's division attacked and shattered Thoburn's right flank on the Cool Spring plantation.

Thoburn made a stand behind a stone wall at the river's edge and beat off three attacks until darkness enabled him to withdraw.

Union pursuit of Early was delayed several days.

Result(s): Confederate victory

Location: Clarke County

Campaign: Early's Raid and Operations against the B&O Railroad (June-August 1864) next battle in campaign previous battle in campaign

Date(s): July 17-18, 1864

Principal Commanders: Major General Horatio Wright [US]; Lieutenant General Jubal A. Early [CS]

Forces Engaged: 13,000 total (US 5,000; CS 8,000)

Estimated Casualties: 819 total (US 422; CS 397)



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