The National Park System, of which this area is a unit, is dedicated to conserving the scenic, scientific, and historic heritage of the United States for the benefit and inspiration of its people.
Contents
Page [The Union Strategy of 1864] 2 [The Strategic Importance of Petersburg] 4 [The Battle of Petersburg, June 15-18, 1864] 8 [First Union Attempt on the Weldon Railroad] 11 [The Battle of the Crater, July 30, 1864] 12 [The Fight for the Weldon Railroad] 22 [Union Encirclement Continues] 25 [The South Strikes Back—the Battle of Fort Stedman] 34 [Union Encirclement Becomes a Reality] 39 [The Fall of the City] 43 [Guide to the Area] 46 [How to Reach the Park] 55 [Administration] 56 [Related Areas] 56 [Visitor Facilities] 56
TABLE OF EVENTS
I. Events in 1864 Preceding the Campaign
Mar. 9. U. S. Grant made commander in chief of the Union armies. May 4. Butler and the Army of the James capture City Point, Virginia. May 5-7. Battle of the Wilderness. May 8-19. Battle of Spotsylvania Court House. May 23. Battle of North Anna River. May 29. Battle of Totopotomoy Creek. June 3. Battle of Cold Harbor. June 9. Raid by Union cavalry on Petersburg lines.
II. Events in 1864 During the Campaign
June 15-18. Opening Battle of Petersburg. June 22-23. Union attack on Weldon Railroad repulsed. July 30. Battle of the Crater. Aug. 18-21. Union forces capture the Weldon Railroad. Aug. 25. Battle of Reams Station. Sept. 14-17. Hampton’s cavalry raid on Union beef supply. Sept. 29-Oct. 1. Battle of Peebles’ Farm and Capture of Fort Harrison. Oct. 19. Battle of Cedar Creek. Oct. 27. Battle of Burgess’ Mill.