Big
Bethel
Bethel Church, Great Bethel Virginia
June 10, 1861
This was the first land battle in Virginia. Maj. Gen. Benjamin F.
Butler sent converging columns from Hampton and Newport News against
advanced Confederate outposts at Little and Big Bethel. Confederates
abandoned Little Bethel and fell back to their entrenchments behind
Brick Kiln Creek, near Big Bethel Church. The Federals, under immediate
command of Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Pierce, pursued, attacked frontally
along the road, and were repulsed. Crossing downstream, the 5th
New York Zouaves attempted to turn the Confederate left flank, but
were repulsed. Unit commander Col. T. Wynthrop was killed. The Union
forces were disorganized and retired, returning to Hampton and Newport
News. The Confederates suffered 1 killed, 7 wounded.
Result(s):
Confederate victory
Location:
York County and Hampton
Campaign:
Blockade of the Chesapeake Bay (May-June 1861)
Date(s):
June 10, 1861
Principal
Commanders: Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Pierce [US]; Col. John B.
Magruder and Col. D.H. Hill [CS]
Forces
Engaged: 4,700 total (US 3,500; CS 1,200)
Estimated
Casualties: 87 total (US 79; CS 8)
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