Confederate Raid

Late in July 1864, Confederate Gen. John C. McCausland led his two cavalry brigades (about 2,800 men) northward into Pennsylvania and Maryland to capture Chambersburg and Cumberland and either collect a ransom or burn the towns. McCausland burned Chambersburg on July 31. The next day, his raiders reached the National Pike and rode toward Cumberland. Union Gen. William W. Averell led 2,000 cavalrymen in pursuit.

Union Gen. Benjamin F. Kelley hurriedly organized Cumberland's defenses. He positioned a blocking force of two infantry regiments (about 1,000 men) and four artillery pieces east of town on wooded hills overlooking Folck's Mill. Other units, including three hastily organized civilian volunteer companies, occupied prepared positions elsewhere around the town.

When the first Confederates reached Folck's Mill, the concealed Federals opened fire. The raiders took shelter in the mill buildings and what is now Hillcrest Cemetery. As the main Confederate force arrived, it deployed on the hill behind the advance body. A sharp fight ensued about 3 p.m. and continued for four and a half hours. With Averell pressing their rear and a solid defense in their front, the Confederates had no choice but to escape south under cover of darkness, leaving campfires burning to deceive the Federals. A difficult night march brought the raiders to Oldtown at dawn. Confederate losses at Cumberland numbered two killed, two wounded, and three taken prisoner, while the Federals suffered twelve wounded.

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Show me all markers in:  Cumberland, MD  |  Allegany County  |  21502  |  Maryland  |  United States of America

Folck's Mill
Folck's Mill
Cumberland
Cumberland Surrenders
Metropolitan A.M.E. Church
Town Clock Church
McNeill's Raid
Capture of Generals
A Boom for Cumberland
Capture of Generals B.F. Kelly and George Crook

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