Battles & Campaigns · 1862
Battle of Seven Pines
Seven Pines, Henrico County, Virginia, USA
What happened
McClellan's army had advanced up the Virginia Peninsula toward Richmond. Johnston attacked two Union corps south of the Chickahominy River, but his attacks were poorly coordinated, and Union reinforcements crossed the river to hold the line. Johnston was wounded on the first day.
Why it matters
Why it matters: Both sides claimed victory. Because Johnston was wounded, Robert E. Lee was given command of the Confederate army.
What came next
McClellan halted his advance. Lee then attacked in the Seven Days Battles and drove the Union army back to the James River.
Did you know?
Johnston was only about 2.5 miles away, but an 'acoustic shadow' stopped him hearing the battle had begun.
Timeline
- 31 May 1862Fighting begins; Johnston is wounded.
- 1 June 1862Confederate attacks are renewed.
- 25 June 1862The Seven Days Battles begin.
- 1 July 1862Battle of Malvern Hill.