Battle of Kinston facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Kinston
Part of the American Civil War
Capture of Kinston, North Carolina
Date December 14, 1862 (1862-12-14) Location Lenoir County, North Carolina Result Union victory
Belligerents
United States (Union)	CSA (Confederacy)
Commanders and leaders
John G. Foster	Nathan Evans
Units involved
Department of North Carolina, 1st Division 12,000	Evan's Brigade 2,400
Strength
10,000	4,000
Casualties and losses
260	525
Kinston Battlefield
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
U.S. Historic district
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Nearest city	Kinston, North Carolina
Area	614 acres (248 ha)
Built	1862
NRHP reference No.	06001104
Added to NRHP	November 30, 2006

The Battle of Kinston was an important fight during the American Civil War. It happened on December 14, 1862, near the town of Kinston in Lenoir County, North Carolina. This battle was part of a larger plan by the Union army called the Goldsboro Expedition.

What Was the Goldsboro Expedition?

The Goldsboro Expedition was a military operation by the Union forces. Their main goal was to damage the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad near Goldsborough. This railroad was very important for the Confederates because it helped them move supplies and soldiers. By destroying it, the Union hoped to weaken the Confederate war effort.

Who Led the Armies?

The Union expedition was led by Brig. Gen. John G. Foster. He was in charge of a large group of Union soldiers. On the Confederate side, the troops were led by Brig. Gen. Nathan Evans. His soldiers were ready to defend the area.

Where Did the Battle Happen?

The battle took place near the Kinston Bridge. This bridge crossed the Neuse River. The area was important because it was on the route to Goldsborough and the vital railroad.

What Happened During the Battle?

On December 14, 1862, General Foster's Union forces moved towards Kinston. They met strong resistance from General Evans's Confederate brigade. The Confederates fought bravely to stop the Union advance.

However, the Union army had many more soldiers than the Confederates. Because they were outnumbered, the Confederate forces had to retreat. They moved north of the Neuse River, heading towards Goldsborough.

The Union Continues Its March

Even after the battle, General Foster continued his mission. The next day, his troops kept moving. They followed the River Road, which was south of the Neuse River. Their goal was still to reach and disrupt the railroad at Goldsborough.

The Outcome of the Battle

The Battle of Kinston ended in a victory for the Union army. They managed to push back the Confederate defenders. This win allowed General Foster's expedition to continue its journey towards Goldsborough.

Gallery

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  Map of Kinston Battlefield core and study areas by the American Battlefield Protection Program.

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  Kinston Battlefield Park

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  Drawing of Kinston Swamp by a member of the 45th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry