Battle of Lexington, Tennessee facts for kids

The Battle of Lexington in Tennessee was a small but important fight during the American Civil War. It happened in Lexington, Tennessee, on December 18, 1862. This battle was part of a larger plan by Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest to raid into western Tennessee.

What Was the Battle of Lexington?

This battle was a quick clash between Union and Confederate soldiers. It took place as part of a cavalry raid led by General Forrest. A cavalry raid means a fast attack by soldiers on horseback. Forrest's goal was to disrupt Union supply lines and cause trouble behind their main army.

Why Did This Battle Happen?

In late 1862, the main Union army in the western United States was in northern Mississippi. To weaken the Union forces, Confederate General Braxton Bragg sent General Forrest on a mission. Forrest's job was to attack the Mobile and Ohio Railroad. This railroad was a very important supply route for the Union army.

Who Fought in the Battle?

General Forrest started his mission from Columbia, Tennessee, on December 11, 1862. He led about 2,500 cavalry troopers. Meanwhile, Union General Jeremiah Sullivan sent Colonel Robert G. Ingersoll to Lexington. Colonel Ingersoll had about 670 men, many of whom were new recruits. He also had two cannons. A small group of cavalry under future governor Alvin Hawkins was part of Ingersoll's force.

What Happened During the Battle?

As General Forrest's troops got close, Colonel Ingersoll tried to prepare for the attack. He ordered his men to destroy a bridge over Beech Creek. This would slow down Forrest's advance. Ingersoll then gathered his soldiers along Old Stage Road, expecting Forrest to attack there.

However, the bridge was not destroyed. General Forrest's soldiers were able to cross it easily. They then surprised Ingersoll's command by attacking their side, or "flank." This unexpected attack caused the Union soldiers to scatter and retreat quickly.

What Was the Result?

The Battle of Lexington was a quick victory for the Confederates. General Forrest's forces captured Colonel Ingersoll himself. They also took about 140 Union soldiers as prisoners. Both of Ingersoll's cannons and other equipment were captured.

After this battle, Forrest continued his raid. He moved on to Jackson, Tennessee, where he fought another battle. He then attacked the railroad depot at Trenton, Tennessee. Forrest continued to Union City, Tennessee and Clarksburg, Tennessee before starting to withdraw. Union forces tried to stop him at the Battle of Parker's Cross Roads on December 31, 1862, but they were not successful.