The Battle at Deserted House, also known as the Battle of Kelley’s Store, took place on January 30, 1863, during the American Civil War. The engagement occurred near the village of Deserted House, Virginia, and involved Union and Confederate forces.

The Union Army, under the command of Major General William F. “Baldy” Smith, was attempting to expand its control over southeastern Virginia. Confederate General James Longstreet saw an opportunity to disrupt the Union advance and ordered Major General George E. Pickett to attack.

Pickett’s Confederate force surprised the Union troops, who were caught off guard and forced to retreat. The Union soldiers attempted to make a stand at a nearby crossroads known as Kelley’s Store, but they were outnumbered and outflanked by the Confederate troops.

Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Union soldiers fought fiercely and were able to hold off the Confederate advance for several hours. The fighting was intense, with both sides suffering significant casualties. The Union soldiers eventually withdrew, but they had successfully delayed the Confederate advance and prevented them from achieving their objective.

The Battle at Deserted House was a significant engagement in the larger context of the Civil War. It highlighted the importance of strategic positioning and demonstrated the courage and determination of both Union and Confederate soldiers. The battle also had important strategic implications, as it slowed the Confederate advance and forced them to reevaluate their tactics.

Overall, the Battle at Deserted House was a testament to the bravery and skill of the soldiers who fought in the Civil War. It underscored the high stakes of the conflict and the sacrifices made by those who fought and died in the struggle for control of the United States.