Battle of Oak Grove
Henrico County, near Richmond, Virginia, USA
What happened
Union troops of George B. McClellan's army, under Samuel P. Heintzelman, fought Confederates under Robert E. Lee and Benjamin Huger. Union brigades pushed west toward Richmond across the edge of White Oak Swamp. Confusion in the lines and a Confederate counterattack threw the Union line out of order. McClellan, following the fight by telegraph from miles away, first ordered his men back and then forward again, and the fighting stopped at nightfall.
Why it matters
It was McClellan's only attacking move against Richmond, and his troops gained only about 600 yards. It did not upset Lee's plan to strike first.
What came next
The battle was the first of the Seven Days Battles. The next day Lee attacked at Beaver Dam Creek, and the Union army began a long retreat.
Did you know?
One Georgia regiment wore red Zouave uniforms, which made some Union soldiers hold their fire because they thought only Union units dressed that way.
Timeline
- 1 Jun 1862Robert E. Lee takes command of the Army of Northern Virginia.
- 25 Jun 1862Battle of Oak Grove.
- 27 Jun 1862Battle of Gaines' Mill.
- 1 Jul 1862Battle of Malvern Hill ends the Seven Days.