On May 7, 1864, after Federal forces seized Tunnel Hill in their first movement in the campaign for Atlanta, Maj. Gen. W.T. Sherman had headquarters at the Austin House, the brick residence at the big spring, until May 12. While there, Sherman learned that McPherson's forces had failed to cut the railroad at Resaca after seizing Snake Creek Gap on May 9, whereupon attempts at Rocky Face, Crow Valley, and Mill Creek Gap were dropped and all Federal units except the 4th A.C., Stoneman's cavalry, and McCook's cavalry were shifted on May 12 to the Resaca front via Villanow and Snake Creek Gap.

Photo: David Tibbs

Photo: David Tibbs

Photo: Mark Hilton

Photo: Mark Hilton

Photo: David Tibbs