On December 7, 1862 Confederate cavalry commanded by Col. John Hunt Morgan conducted a surprise attack on the Union garrison at Hartsville and captured the entire brigade of Col. Absalom Moore.  Before Union reinforcements could arrive, Morgan withdrew across the Cumberland River with 1844 prisoners including Col. Moore, captured wagons and supplies.  Union casualties included 1844 prisoners.  Following the battle, Morgan was subsequently commissioned the rank of brigadier general.