Final Attack

After failed cavalry attacks on Thomas Farm, Confederate General Gordon's division of 3,500 infantry assembled on the Worthington Farm. At 3:30 p.m., Gordon sent three brigades, led by Generals Evans, York, and Terry, to attack in sequence from right to left. Union troops, nearly 3,200 strong, fought stubbornly against Evans' brigade but were forced back to the Georgetown Pike when York's brigade collapsed the middle of their defensive line. The Pike's banks filled with Union troops as they occupied this excellent defensive position, making it hard for the Confederates to dislodge them. The Union defense near the river was vulnerable, and Terry's brigade struck it hard, joined by Confederate artillery from across the river. The Union right fell back from the river, creating a gaping hole in their defense.

Maryland · United States