Rocky Face Ridge - May 9, 1864

American Battlefield Trust’s map of the Battle of Rocky Face Ridge on May 9, 1864

After crossing Tunnel Hill on May 7, Maj. Gen. George Thomas’ Army of the Cumberland attacked the west side of Rocky Face Ridge on May 8 and 9. Thomas’ army contains the IV Corps under Maj. Gen. Oliver Howard and the XIV Corps of Maj. Gen. John Palmer. The Western & Atlantic Railroad passed through Mill Creek Gap, also known as the “Buzzard’s Roost,” around the south edge of Rocky Face Ridge into Dalton to the east. Dug Gap, also attacked on May 8, is five miles further south (not shown). Maj. Gen. John Schofield’s Army of the Ohio attacked the north end of the ridge. On May 10, Sherman ordered Schofield and Thomas to withdraw and follow McPherson’s route through Snake Creek Gap to Resaca, 17 miles south. Palmer withdrew first, followed by Schofield through May 10 and 11.