The Hatch-Hood Collision

— Second Battle of Manassas - Day Two - August 29, 1862 —

Officers said the Rebels were retreating. Hatch's Division was ordered to pursue. Marching double-quick west on the turnpike, the Federals reached this hill just after sundown.

Suddenly the ridge erupted with fire. In the confusion—screaming horses, showers of earth and shrapnel—soldiers lined up in the wrong regiments.

In the dying light, New York troops saw movement in the dark woods to the left. Voices shouted "Don't fire on us, boys, we are coming to help you!" The Federals held their fire, but then a terrible volley of bullets smacked into them. Muzzle-flashes revealed gray uniforms among the trees.

(sidebar) Maj. Gen. Irving McDowell said in loud tones, "General Hatch, the enemy is in full retreat. Pursue him rapidly!" At the same time, two miles west, Confederate Maj. Gen. James Longstreeet had ordered Hood's Division to make a reconnaissance along the turnpike. The two forces collided here. Though darkness prevented any decisive action, the engagement had great significance. Longstreet and the other half of the Confederate Army had arrived on the field.

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