Fort Blakeley | Apr 9, 1865

American Battlefield Trust’s map of the Battle of Fort Blakeley on April 9, 1865

E.R.S. Canby’s forces, the XVI and XIII corps, moved along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, forcing the Confederates back into their defenses. Union forces then concentrated on Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely. By April 1, Union forces had enveloped Spanish Fort, thereby releasing more troops to focus on Fort Blakely. Brig. Gen. St. John R. Liddell, with about 4,000 men defended against a Union attack of 16,000 men on April 9. The Union attack, including 5,000 USCT in three brigades under Brig. Gen. John P. Hawkins, breached the Confederate earthworks compelling the Confederates to capitulate.

Learn More: The Battle of Fort Blakeley