Other Names: Charleston Harbor, Morris Island

Location: City of Charleston

Campaign: Operations against Defenses of Charleston (1863)

Date(s): August 17-December 31, 1863

Principal Commanders: Maj. Gen. Quincy Gillmore [US]; Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard [CS]

Forces Engaged: Morris Island Batteries [US]; Fort Sumter Garrison

Estimated Casualties: Unknown

Description: Federal batteries erected on Morris Island opened fire on August 17 and continued their bombardment of Fort Sumter and the Charleston defenses until August 23. Despite a severe pounding, Fort Sumter’s garrison held out. Siege operations continued against Fort Wagner on Morris Island.

Result(s): Inconclusive

CWSAC Reference #: III.2 (Class B)

Preservation Priority: IV.2 (Class D)