Battle of Waynesboro

Other Names: None

Location: Augusta County, Virginia

Campaign: Sheridan's Expedition to Petersburg (February-March 1865)

Date: March 2, 1865

Principal Commanders: Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan [US]; Lt. Gen. Jubal Early [CS]

Forces Engaged: 4,100 total (US 2,500; CS 1,600)

Casualties and losses: 1,800 total

Result(s): Union victory

Brief Description:

On February 27, Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan with two cavalry divisions rode from Winchester up the Shenandoah Valley to Staunton. Turning east, the Federals encountered the last remnant of Lt. Gen. Jubal Early's Valley army at Waynesboro on March 2. After a brief stand-off, a Federal attack rolled up Early's right flank and scattered his small force. More than 1,500 Confederates surrendered. Early and a few of his staff evaded capture. Sheridan crossed the Blue Ridge to Charlottesville and then raided south, destroying the James River Canal locks near Goochland Court House. He joined forces with the Army of the Potomac near Petersburg on March 26 for the opening of the Appomattox Campaign.