Battle of Bentonville - Day Three - March 21, 1865

American Battlefield Trust’s map of the Battle of Bentonville (Day Three)

On March 21, Johnston remained in position while he removed his wounded. Skirmishing heated up along the entire front. In the afternoon, Maj. Gen. Joseph Mower led his Union division along a narrow trace that carried it across Mill Creek into Johnston’s rear. Confederate counterattacks stopped Mower’s advance, saving the army’s only line of communication and retreat. Johnston and his staff were nearly captured during Mower's attack. During the night, Johnston retreated across the bridge at Bentonville. Union forces pursued at first light, driving back Wheeler’s rearguard and saving the bridge.

Learn More: The Battle of Bentonville