Existing comment:
Geology Helped the Union:
"On the 21st, I reached the enemy;s entrenched camp on Rockcastle Hills, a natural fortification, almost inaccessible."
-- General Felix Zollicoffer
Millions of Years in the Making:
The "natural fortification" began forming nearly 300 million years ago when ancient rivers spread sand and gravel over the area. Under the pressure of its own weight, the material hardened into rock which was later thrust up and eroded to form these hills and the cliffs that surround them.
No Easy Way Up:
The rugged terrain forced the Confederates to approach Camp Wildcat up an easily defended valley.
Hoosier Knob proved especially difficult to attack. Surrounded by cliffs on three sides, the only access was up steep, narrow saddles on which the Union soldiers could train their guns. |