Other Names: First Battle of Saltville, Saltville I Battlefield Maps Pictures

Location: Smyth County

Campaigns: Burbridge’s Raid into Southwest Virginia (September-October 1864); Virginia Saltworks Campaign (May-December 1864) 

Date(s): October 2, 1864

Principal Commanders: Brig. Gen. Stephen Burbridge [US]; Brig. Gen. Alfred E. Jackson [CS]

Forces Engaged: Divisions (11,000 total)

Estimated Casualties: 458 total

Description: Union cavalry and infantry raiders led by Brig. Gen. Stephen Burbridge attempted to destroy the saltworks near Saltville. He was delayed at Clinch Mountain and Laurel Gap by a makeshift Confederate force, enabling Brig. Gen. Alfred E. Jackson to concentrate troops near Saltville to meet him. On the morning of October 1, the Federals attacked but made little headway. Confederate reinforcements continued to arrive during the day. After day-long fighting, Burbridge retired without accomplishing his objective. Afterwards, Confederate soldiers allegedly murdered captured and wounded black soldiers.

Result(s): Confederate victory

Sources: National Park Service; Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies