Baylor’s Farm

On June 15, 1864, ordered to take Petersburg, Gen. William F. “Baldy” Smith sent Gen. Edward W. Hinks’ division of African American soldiers from City Point toward the city, but Hinks met unexpected Confederate resistance at Baylor’s Farm. Southern cavalry under Gen. James Dearing, supported by the Petersburg Artillery, had strengthened an already strong position by building earthworks across City Point Road. After Smith ordered an attack, Hinks’ soldiers, never before tested in battle, advanced with a shout, were driven back by spherical case, canister, and musketry, then regrouped and attacked again under the lead of the 22nd United States Colored Troops. Their charge broke the Confederate line. The engagement lasted less than two hours and cost the Union slightly more than 300 casualties out of 3500 participants, but it delayed Smith’s advance and gave the Confederate army time to strengthen Petersburg’s defenses. The fighting at Baylor’s Farm also demonstrated African American soldiers’ willingness and ability to fight, qualities the Union army relied on throughout the Petersburg campaign.

Hopewell, Virginia · United States