Fighting at Ely Corner

The main section of the Battle of Marianna began here at 11 a.m. on September 27, 1864, when Confederate cavalry under Col. A.B. Montgomery formed a line of battle across the main street at this point. Union troops, led by Brig. Gen. Alexander Asboth, approached from the west. Heavy Confederate fire rolled back the first Union attack, but Asboth ordered a second charge before the Southern troops had time to reload their muzzle-loading carbines and shotguns. Fighting with sabers took place here as the two forces collided. The outnumbered Confederates were compelled to retreat east toward the center of town, still fighting as they went, with Union troops following close behind.

Marianna, Florida · United States