This Day in Henrico History: Oct. 7 – Lee’s last offensive north of the James is repulsed in Henrico
On Oct. 7, 1864, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee launched what was described as the Army of Northern Virginia’s last advance north of the James River, attacking Union positions along Darbytown and New Market roads.
The offensive was intended to regain ground lost during the Union victories at New Market Heights and Fort Harrison eight days earlier. Confederate forces initially overwhelmed Union cavalry along Darbytown Road, but the delay that followed gave Union Gen. Alfred H. Terry time to reposition infantry near New Market Road.
When the Confederate advance resumed, Union troops — some armed with Spencer repeating rifles — delivered heavy fire. Difficult wooded terrain contributed to confusion in the Confederate ranks, and Brig. Gen. John Gregg was killed while leading his Texas brigade.
The attack collapsed and Lee’s troops withdrew. Henrico County’s historical account estimates more than 1,000 Confederate casualties and fewer than 500 Federal casualties. The defeat ended Lee’s effort to reverse the Union gains north of the James and left Fort Harrison in Federal hands.
Sources: Henrico County
