Battles & Campaigns · 1864
Battle of North Anna
North Anna River, Virginia, USA
What happened
After Spotsylvania, Grant moved south to the North Anna River in central Virginia. Union troops crossed the river at two places, while Lee built a defensive line shaped like an upside-down 'V'. A Union attack at Ox Ford was driven back, and the armies faced each other across their earthworks for several days.
Why it matters
Why it matters: The battle was inconclusive. It was part of Grant's Overland Campaign, aimed at destroying Lee's army rather than capturing Richmond directly.
What came next
Grant moved southeast again, toward the crossroads at Cold Harbor.
Did you know?
Some say Lee was ill in bed at the key moment and missed a chance to strike, but historians doubt that story.
Timeline
- 21 May 1864Grant leaves Spotsylvania.
- 23 May 1864Fighting begins at the North Anna.
- 26 May 1864Grant moves away.
- 31 May 1864Fighting begins at Cold Harbor.