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.
Insane Asylum, Cox’s Hill
On January 3, 1863 Union forces consisting of the 2nd East Tennessee Cavalry and the 6 th Tennessee Infantry were in