South Quay Road, Va., April 17, 1863

The Battle of South Quay Road, also known as the Battle of Edenton Road, occurred on April 17, 1863, during the American Civil War. The battle was fought between Union and Confederate forces near South Quay Road, Virginia, as part of the larger Siege of Suffolk campaign.

Confederate General James Longstreet led an army to attack the Union-held city of Suffolk, Virginia, which was defended by Major General John J. Peck’s Union Army. As Longstreet’s troops advanced towards Suffolk, a detachment of Confederate troops led by Brigadier General William Mahone encountered a Union force near South Quay Road.

The Confederate troops, numbering around 4,000 men, launched a surprise attack on the Union troops, who were caught off guard and forced to retreat. The Union troops attempted to make a stand at the nearby crossroads of Edenton Road, but were ultimately overwhelmed by the larger Confederate force.

Despite being outnumbered, the Union soldiers fought fiercely and were able to hold off the Confederate advance for several hours. However, they were ultimately forced to withdraw, suffering over 200 casualties compared to the Confederate’s roughly 50.

The Battle of South Quay Road was a small engagement in the larger Siege of Suffolk campaign, but it demonstrated the bravery and determination of the soldiers on both sides. It also had important strategic implications, as it delayed the Confederate advance towards Suffolk and forced them to reevaluate their tactics.

Overall, the Battle of South Quay Road was a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought in the American Civil War. It is remembered as one of the many small but important battles that took place throughout the conflict, shaping the course of the war and the history of the United States.