On October 11, 1863 a Union advance led by Brig. Gen. Edward Potter (Ferrero’s Division) attacked Confederate cavalry commanded by Brig. Gen. John Williams forcing the Confederates to withdraw. At Rheatown the Union cavalry brigade of Col. John Foster had outflanked the retreating Confederates resulting in a rout referred to as the “Rheatown Races.” The engagement was also notable for Confederate use of the Williams gun—a breech loading field peace.
Hay’s Ferry
On December 24, 1863 a Union detachment of the First Brigade of the First Division (Col. A. P. Campbell) marched