On July 22, 1864, Sweeny's 2nd Division of Dodge's 16th Army Corps (US), held in reserve north of the Georgia Railroad at Candler Park, was ordered to support the left wing of Blair's 17th Corps in East Atlanta. Marching via Clay Road, Sweeny's column halted here at noon to await further orders, with Mersy's brigade leading the advance and Rice's following. By mere accident, the two brigades were posted where they intercepted the surprise attack by Walker's and Bate's divisions of Hardee's Army Corps (CS), aimed at the rear of Blair's 17th Army Corps intrenched along Flat Shoals Road, 1 mile west of this point, thereby precipitating the battle.