Defense of Snodgrass Hill Marker

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Near Fort Oglethorpe in Walker County, Georgia — The American South (South Atlantic)

Defense of Snodgrass Hill
Thomas' stand here saved the Union army from destruction

Defense of Snodgrass Hill Marker Photo, Click for full size

By Dale K. Benington, July 10, 2010

1. Defense of Snodgrass Hill Marker

Inscription. After the Union right collapsed on the afternoon of September 20, Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas rallied all the Federals he could find and positioned them on this ridge. Determined stands by isolated Union units delayed the Confederates long enough for Thomas to throw up log breastworks and solidify his line.

Confederate attacks began here on Snodgrass Hill and the adjacent ridge about 1:00 p.m. Time after time they threw themselves against the Union line, only to be driven back with heavy losses. About 3:00 p.m., the Confederates captured a section of the ridge about 200 yards in front of you. However, the timely arrival of Steedman's Division on Horseshoe Ridge drove the Confederates back.

That evening Thomas safely withdrew his men. The field of battle belonged to the victorious Confederates, but they failed to pursue the Federals. Thomas' successful defense here had protected the retreating Union army from annihilation, and prevented the Confederates from taking Chattanooga.

Erected by Chickamauga-Chattanooga Battlefield Board.

Location. 34° 55.675′ N, 85° 16.128′ W. Marker is near Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, in Walker County. Marker can be reached from Vittetoe Road west of Vittetoe-Chickamauga Road

By Dale K. Benington, July 10, 2010

2. Defense of Snodgrass Hill Marker

Close-up view of the battlefield map that is on the historical marker.

when traveling west. Click for map. This historical marker is located in the northwest section of the Chickamauga National Military Park, along a ridge called Snodgrass Hill. To view this historical marker drive to the parking area on Snodgrass Hill and the marker can be seen situated just east of the parking lot. Marker is in this post office area: Fort Oglethorpe GA 30742, United States of America.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. 10th Indiana Infantry (here, next to this marker); Croxton's Brigade (a few steps from this marker); 9th Ohio Infantry. (a few steps from this marker); 4th Kentucky Infantry (within shouting distance of this marker); Brannan's Division (within shouting distance of this marker); 87th Indiana Infantry (within shouting distance of this marker); 10th Kentucky Infantry (within shouting distance of this marker); 31st Ohio Infantry (within shouting distance of this marker). Click for a list of all markers in Fort Oglethorpe.

By Dale K. Benington, July 10, 2010

3. Defense of Snodgrass Hill Marker

Close-up view of the portion of the historical marker showing a copy of a painting of battle on Snodgrass Hill.

By Dale K. Benington, July 10, 2010

4. Defense of Snodgrass Hill Marker

View looking west showing the location of the historical marker in relation to the parking area for visiting Snodgrass Hill.

By Dale K. Benington, July 10, 2010

5. Defense of Snodgrass Hill Marker

View looking south showing location of historical marker in relation to the adjacent regimental monument for the 9th OVI. The treeline marks the southern crest of Snodgrass Hill.

Credits. This page originally submitted on December 28, 2010, by Dale K. Benington of Toledo, Ohio. This page has been viewed 504 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on December 28, 2010, by Dale K. Benington of Toledo, Ohio.