Historic Ground -- 1964

Marker Text:

In an area bound by Memorial Drive, Clifton Road, Glenwood Avenue, and Moreland Avenue, was were the major part of the Battle of Atlanta was fought. July 22nd.

In terms of present day landmarks, the battle began at present day Clifton road and Memorial drive where Hardee's right wind (CS) was repulsed in an unexpected clash with Sweeny's 16th Army Corps division (US). This was followed by an assault of Hardee's left wing which crushed the left wing of the 17th Army Corps at Flat Shoals road and Glenwood Avenue and dislodged the right of the 16th Army Corps, forcing them north to a second line at and east of Leggett's Hill - eight hours of battle in which two major Generals, Walker and McPherson, were killed.

044-68 Georgia Historical Marker erected 1956

Location: McPherson Avenue and Monument Avenue

GPS

Date Visited: July 01, 2008

Re-iteration of the ferocity of the battle and the surprise of the attack and the surprise of Sweeny's division. If McPherson hadn't have brought down Sweeny's division, then the full brunt of the attack would have fell directly on the line at Memorial Drive near Leggett's Hill. The 17th Army Corps of the Federals would have had no were to retreat towards. McPherson apparently had pretty good instincts tactically. I believe that he knew Hood well from his time at West Point and possibly the Mexican War. The point that McPherson had been worried about was indeed the area that gave him the greatest test. His armies passed the test ultimately, but he did not. Further research into this moment has determined that Sherman grieved at his loss. Not only did he grieve for his friend, but he also would sorely miss his most trusted "right hand" commander.