Warwick Line facts for kids

The Warwick Line was a strong defense built during the American Civil War in 1861 and 1862. It was located across the Virginia Peninsula in Virginia. This line helped the Confederate army protect an important area from the larger Union army.

The Warwick Line: A Civil War Defense

The Warwick Line, sometimes called the Warwick–Yorktown line, was a series of defensive structures. These defenses were built along the Warwick River. Their purpose was to stop the Union army from advancing.

Who Built and Used the Line?

The Confederate army built and used the Warwick Line. Their general, John B. Magruder, was in charge of these defenses. He faced a much larger Union army led by General George B. McClellan. The line helped Magruder's smaller force hold off the Union troops.

Where Was This Defense Located?

The main part of the Warwick Line stretched for about 12 miles. It started near Yorktown and followed the Warwick River. The line went downstream to a place called Lee's Mill. From there, it continued westward to Skiffe's Creek. Skiffe's Creek flows into the James River.

The line's end point was at Mulberry Island. At Mulberry Island Point, there was a battery with four cannons. This battery helped anchor the eastern side of the defense. Today, the southern part of Mulberry Island is part of Fort Eustis. This area is where the Warwick and James Rivers meet.

Why Was the Warwick Line Important?

The Warwick Line played a key role in the Peninsula Campaign of the American Civil War. It allowed the Confederate army to slow down the Union advance. This gave the Confederates more time to prepare their defenses around Richmond, their capital. Even though the Union army was much bigger, the Warwick Line made it difficult for them to move quickly.