Other Names: First Assault, Morris Island

Location: City of Charleston

Campaign: Operations against Defenses of Charleston (1863)

Date(s): July 10-11, 1863

Principal Commanders: Brig. Gen. Qunicy Gillmore [US]; Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard [CS]

Forces Engaged: Brigades

Estimated Casualties: 351 total (US 339; CS 12)

Description: On July 10, Union artillery on Folly Island together with Rear Adm. John Dahlgren’s fleet of ironclads opened fire on Confederate defenses of Morris Island. The bombardment provided cover for Brig. Gen. George C. Strong’s brigade, which crossed Light House Inlet and landed by boats on the southern tip of the island. Strong’s troops advanced, capturing several batteries, to within range of Confederate Fort Wagner. At dawn, July 11, Strong attacked the fort. Soldiers of the 7th Connecticut reached the parapet but, unsupported, were thrown back.

Result(s): Confederate victory

CWSAC Reference #: SC005