Battle of Plymouth (1864) facts for kids

Battle of Plymouth (1864)

Quick facts for kids Battle of Plymouth
Part of the American Civil War
Date April 17, 1864 (1864-04-17) – April 20, 1864 (1864-04-20) Location Washington County, North Carolina Result Confederate victory
Belligerents
United States (Union)	Confederate States
Commanders and leaders
Henry W. Wessells  Charles W. Flusser  †	Robert F. Hoke
Units involved
Plymouth Garrison	Hoke's Division
Strength
2,500	4,500
Casualties and losses
2,000	800

The Battle of Plymouth was an important fight during the American Civil War. It happened from April 17 to April 20, 1864. This battle took place in Washington County, North Carolina.

What Happened at Plymouth?

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

On April 17, 1864, Confederate forces attacked the town of Plymouth, North Carolina. These forces were led by Major General Robert F. Hoke. They worked together with a special warship called the ironclad ram CSS Albemarle.

The town was defended by Union soldiers. On April 19, the powerful CSS Albemarle arrived in the river. It quickly sank the USS Southfield and damaged the USS Miami. This forced other Union Navy ships to leave. These ships had been helping to protect Plymouth.

The Fight for Forts

Confederate soldiers then captured Fort Comfort. This pushed the Union defenders back into Fort Williams. The fighting was intense.

"Lieut Charles W. Flusser. Killed April 19, 1864 in a naval engagement off Plymouth NC on the USS Miami"

On April 20, the Union soldiers defending Plymouth had to give up. They surrendered to the Confederate forces. This meant the Confederates won the Battle of Plymouth.

Site of Union earthworks on Washington Street

During the battle, many people in Plymouth likely hid in the basement of the Latham House. This was to stay safe from the fighting.