This is a group of five bullets recovered on private property in Augusta County, Virginia, near the site of the Battle of Piedmont that took place on 5 June, 1864. This is considered to be a battle of the Lynchburg Campaign. Approximately 8500 Union soldiers, under the command of Major General David Hunter, met approximately 5500 Confederate soldiers under the command of Brigadier General William E. "Grumble" Jones just outside the small town of Piedmont. The Union forces were attempting to capture the town of Staunton, Virignia when they encountered the Confederates. Initially the Union forces were successful in driving in the Confederate outposts with their Cavalry. The Confederates countered with their own Cavalry, the 18th Virginia Cavalry Regiment, and stopped the Union advance. The outnumbered Confederates were able to hold their positions throughout the morning, but a movement of one the Confederate Infantry regiments left a large gap in the line. Union troops saw the gap and took advantage, splitting the Confederate forces in half and advancing on the town of Piedmont. During the fighting, General Jones attempted to lead some infantry into the gap and was shot through the head and killed instantly. The battle was a Union victory. Union casualties were 875 killed, wounded captured or missing. Confederate casualties were 1500, with 1000 being captured. Among the dead for the Confederates was Brigadier General William Jones. These five bullets were all recovered on private property.

Item # AA2619

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