Battle of Sayler's Creek

Battle of Sayler's Creek Hillsman Farm, Lockett Farm Began: April 6, 1865 Ended: Same day Location: Amelia, Prince Edward, and Nottoway Counties, Virginia Theater: Eastern Theater Campaign: Appomattox Campaign Outcome: Union victory Combatants Sheridan's Cavalry Corps II and VI Corps Commanders Philip Sheridan Major General, USA Richard Ewell Lieutenant General, CSA John B. Gordon Major General, CSA Strength 15–16,000 11,500 Casualties 1,148 7,700 captured

On April 6 at Sailor’s Creek, nearly one fourth of the retreating Confederate army was cut off by Sheridan’s Cavalry and elements of the II and VI Corps. Most surrendered, including Confederate generals Richard S. Ewell, Barton, Simms, Kershaw, Custis Lee, Dubose, Hunton, and Corse. This action was considered the death knell of the Confederate army. Upon seeing the survivors streaming along the road, Lee exclaimed “My God, has the army dissolved?” (NPS summary)