Chapter 73: The Main Army Fighting Ends at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865

As Spring sets in, Union troops sidle from Cold Harbor across James River to positions south of Richmond, akin to McClellan’s deployment during the failed 1862 Peninsula Campaign. But Grant has a trick up his sleeve this time involving a feint toward the capital to freeze Lee in place, followed by an assault on the underprotected city of Petersburg. He knows that if Petersburg falls, Richmond is sure to follow.

Once Lee recognizes Grant’s plan, he establishes the Dimmock Line curving around the south side of the city. On March 25, 1865 he launches the last offensive of the Army of Northern Virginia at Ft. Stedman, but is turned back with some 4,000 casualties. It’s now clear that Petersburg and Richmond are vulnerable, and Lee tries to protect his last escape line into North Caroline along the South Side Railroad. This fails with the April 1 defeat at Five Forks, 15 miles southwest of Petersburg – and the next day corps commander A.P. Hill is killed.

On April 2 the evacuation of Richmond and Petersburg begins, as Lee races west hoping to reach Lynchburg. General Sheridan blocks his path on April 5 at Amelia Court House and again on April 2 at Sailor’s Creek. The entire flight costs Lee some 37,000 troops, and he moves his final 13,000 to Appomattox Court House, where he surenders his exhausted army on April 9.

General Grant offers very gracious terms, allowing Lee and his officers to keep their swords and many others to retain their horses, baggage and sidearms. As the Confederates prepare to exit, General Joshua Chamberlain orders a final “carry arms” salute to honor a worthy foe and set the tone for peace.