Existing comment:
Taking Cover in Gambrill Mill:
As troops exchanged gunfire, James Gambrill and three other civilians sought refuge in the mill. Meanwhile, Union surgeons set up a field hospital in the building. Later, victorious Confederates would find 42 wounded and dead soldiers inside the mill.
A Second Attack:
The Union line on the Worthington Farm suffered a second attack by dismounted cavalrymen commanded by Brigadier General John McCausland. Again, the Confederates were driven back to the Worthington Farm. They were joined by hardened veterans under the command of Major General John B Gordon and prepared their third and final assault.
Major General John B. Gordon assessed the situation from the Worthington Farm...
"... the enemy was posted along the line of a fence on the crest of the ridge running obliquely to the left from the river. In his front lay an open field, which was commanded by his artillery and small arms to the extent of their range... The enemy's line of skirmishers covered the front of his first line and extended far beyond it to the left."
Union sharpshooters would take their position nearby in the Thomas House as the Federals attempted to "hold their ground." General Gordon ordered a three-pronged attack that would result in intense combat between the Worthington and Thomas Farms. |