The Civil War Book

On this day in the Civil War, a watchman on the USS Housatonic, a blockade ship patrolling in Charleston Harbor, sees something in the water making its way toward the ship, it turns out to be the Confederate semi-submersible ship H L Hunley. 

The Hunley is armed with a torpedo, which blows a hole in the Housatonic on impact. Both vessels sink.

Charleston Harbor

On this day in the Civil War, General U.S. Grant issues his terms for the disposition of Fort Donelson: “No terms except unconditional and immediate surrender can be accepted. I propose to move immediately upon your works.”

The statement leaves the Confederates with no alternative and General Buckner relinquishes possession of the military position.

Ulysses S. Grant

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, minor fighting breaks out in Tennessee. The Federal force, under the command of Sergeant Holmes, manages to defeat the Southern force; killing 8, wounding 20, and taking 4 prisoners.

On this day in the Civil War, the Secretary of War , with President Lincoln’s approval, issues orders to release political prisoners who will take the oath of allegiance to the United States.

Edwin Stanton

Secretary of War

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, an attack on Fort Donelson occurs. The Confederate reinforcements are under the command of General John Floyd, and the Federal attack is led by Generals C.F. Smith and McClernand.

Storming of Fort Donelson

(Credit: Library of Congress)