The Probert Encyclopaedia of Warfare

ASSAULT OF FORT STEDMAN

The Assault of Fort Stedman, Virginia was a surprise attack on the night of March the 25th 1865 during the American Civil War. The fort was garrisoned by troops from Grant's army, then operating around Richmond and Petersburg. It was assailed on the night of March 25 by two divisions of Lee's army under Gordon. The assault was a surprise, and the fort was quickly captured. The assault was intended as a ruse, under cover of which Lee planned to retreat from Petersburg. The plan failed, however, for the Federals, quickly recovering themselves, retook the fort on March the 27th.
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