Existing comment:
(Stop 11) Donelson Persists:
When Donelson's shattered regiments reached this position, nearly half of his men had been killed and wounded. Despite the appalling casualties, the Confederate attack continued to the west.
When Donelson's 16th Tennessee Infantry Regiment taking the lead, the stubborn Confederate advance moved past the ridge in front of you. Driving the Union defenders away from the Widow Gibson cabin, Donelson's persistent soldiers were finally stopped by a Union brigade commanded by Colonel George Webster.
With his brigade in shambles from the crossfire of several Federal batteries and the obstinate Union defense, Donelson's men withdrew. Their losses were severe. In the four-hour battle, Donelson's 16th Tennessee Infantry suffered nearly 60 percent casualties. These Tennesseans lost more men killed and wounded than any other Southern regiment in the battle.
"We advanced through the field where the grapeshot and shrapnel were rolling against the cornstalks."
-- Confederate Private Davis Biggs, 38th Tennessee Infantry |