When did the Battle of Fort Henry take place?
The Battle of Fort Henry took place on the 6th of February 1862. Union forces under Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant and Flag Officer Andrew Hull Foote launched a combined land-naval assault that day.
Questions about Battle of Fort Henry
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who commanded Confederate forces at Fort Henry during the American Civil War?
Confederate forces were initially stationed by Brigadier General Gideon J. Pillow in September 1861 but surrendered to Union forces on the 6th of February 1862. The fort was defended by troops including those from the 10th Tennessee Infantry who helped construct it earlier that year.
Where is the site of Fort Henry located today?
Fort Henry lies permanently submerged beneath Kentucky Lake after the Tennessee River was dammed in the 1930s. A small navigation beacon marks the location of the northwest corner of the former fort from a distance away from the Kentucky shoreline.
How many gunboats participated in the attack on Fort Henry on February 6 1862?
Seven Union gunboats attacked Fort Henry on the 6th of February 1862 including four ironclads and three timberclads. These vessels opened fire from 1,700 yards and engaged Confederate defenses for over an hour before surrender.
Why did Fort Henry become submerged underwater during the battle?
Heavy rains caused frequent flooding that submerged more than half the fort including most of its armory and powder magazine. Construction began mid-June using men from the 10th Tennessee Infantry and slaves at a low swampy ground site near Kirkman's Old Landing.