First Battle of Donaldsonville facts for kids

Quick facts for kids First Battle of Donaldsonville
Part of the American Civil War
Date August 9, 1862 (1862-08-09) Location Ascension Parish, Louisiana Result Union victory
Belligerents
United States (Union)	CSA (Confederacy)
Commanders and leaders
David G. Farragut	Phillippe Landry
Strength
3 ships
Casualties and losses
0	0

Map of the First Battle of Donaldsonville battlefield.

The First Battle of Donaldsonville happened on August 9, 1862. It took place in Ascension Parish, Louisiana, during the American Civil War. This battle was part of a larger plan by the Union to control the area around Baton Rouge.

What Caused the Battle of Donaldsonville?

During the Civil War, Union ships often traveled on the Mississippi River. They used the river to move troops and supplies. Near Donaldsonville, Louisiana, Confederate forces sometimes shot at these Union ships. These attacks made it hard for the Union to use the river safely.

The U.S. Navy decided they needed to stop these attacks. Rear Admiral David G. Farragut was a very important Union naval commander. He was in charge of the Union ships in this area.

Farragut's Warning and Attack

Admiral Farragut wanted to make a strong point. He sent a message to the people of Donaldsonville. He told them that he planned to attack the town. He suggested that women and children should leave for their safety.

After the warning, Farragut's ships anchored in front of Donaldsonville. They began to fire their cannons and mortars at the town. Mortars are a type of cannon that fires shells high into the air.

Farragut also sent a group of Union soldiers ashore. This group set fire to several buildings. They burned hotels, buildings near the wharf (where ships dock), and homes. Among the houses burned were those belonging to Captain Phillippe Landry. Landry was believed to be the leader of a local group that had been shooting at Union ships. Some people said Landry's group even fired at the Union soldiers as they landed.

What Was the Result of the Battle?

The First Battle of Donaldsonville was a Union victory. Even though some citizens protested the attack, the main goal was achieved. After this battle, the Confederate forces largely stopped shooting at Union ships passing by Donaldsonville. This made the Mississippi River safer for Union travel.