The inner breastworks formed a second defensive line between the outer breastworks and the Union fort. Confederate General P.G.T. Beauregard ordered them built because the outer breastworks were too extensive for the available garrison to defend. Constructed during late March and April 1862, the inner line was designed to hold 3,000 men, and several circular depressions along the works suggest that mortars were placed there. During the early stages of the Battle of Fort Pillow, several companies of the 13th Tennessee Cavalry (Union) held this position, but by mid-morning Forrest's troops had driven them from the works.