Wyse Fork Battlefield
Wyse Fork Battlefield—site of the Battle of Wyse Fork or the Second Battle of Kinston—played a crucial role in the final days of the Civil War. Fought from March 7-10, 1865, this battle was part of the larger Confederate effort to slow the advance of Union forces under Gen. Jacob D. Cox as they moved toward Goldsboro, North Carolina.
It was the second largest battle fought in the state and saw determined resistance from Confederate troops under Gen. Braxton Bragg, who attempted to halt the Union advance. Though the Confederates temporarily stalled Cox’s progress, Union forces ultimately pushed forward, setting the stage for the climactic Battle of Bentonville less than two weeks later.
Today, visitors can explore the battlefield’s history through a self-guided driving tour, with brochures available at the Kinston-Lenoir County Visitor and Information Center. A small parking area, monument, and interpretive wayside marker are located at the intersection of U.S. Route 70 and British Road, offering insight into the battle’s significance.
Preservation
The American Battlefield Trust and our members have saved more than 287 acres at Wyse Fork Battlefield.
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