Battle of Morrisville facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Morrisville
Part of the Campaign of the Carolinas
Date April 13–15, 1865 Location Morrisville, North Carolina Result Union victory
Belligerents
United States	Confederate States
Commanders and leaders
Hugh Judson Kilpatrick	Wade Hampton III Joseph Wheeler
Strength
Unknown	Unknown
Casualties and losses
Unknown	Unknown

The Battle of Morrisville, also known as the Battle at Morrisville Station, was fought from April 13 to 15, 1865. It took place in Morrisville, North Carolina. This battle was part of the Carolinas Campaign during the American Civil War.

It was the last official battle between the armies of Union Major General William Tecumseh Sherman and Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston.

What Happened at Morrisville?

Union cavalry, led by General Hugh Judson Kilpatrick, pushed back Confederate forces. These Confederate troops were under the command of Generals Wade Hampton III and Joseph Wheeler. The Confederates were trying to move their supplies and wounded soldiers by train. They wanted to reach Greensboro, North Carolina, which was their last camp.

Union Tactics

General Kilpatrick used cannons placed on high ground overlooking Morrisville Station. He also ordered cavalry charges. These actions forced the Confederates to leave the small village quickly. They had to leave many important supplies behind.

Confederate Retreat

Even though they lost supplies, the Confederate trains managed to escape. They carried wounded soldiers from earlier battles, like the Battle of Bentonville and the Battle of Averasborough.

Why Was This Battle Important?

After the battle, General Johnston sent a messenger to General Sherman at Morrisville. Johnston asked to meet with Sherman to discuss a truce, or an "armistice."

The Surrender Meeting

A few days later, on April 17, 1865, the two generals met. They met at a place called Bennett Place. This meeting began talks for what would become the largest surrender of the entire war.

What Remains Today?

Today, it's hard to find signs of the battle in Morrisville. The area has developed a lot over time. You might still see some old earthworks, which are like small dirt walls, near the train tracks. The state of North Carolina has put up a sign. It marks where the battle likely happened.