This Day in History – May 31, 1862 Tags: 19th century American history, American Civil War, Army of Northern Virginia, Army of the Potomac, Battle of Fair Oaks, Battle of Fair Oaks Station, Battle of Seven Pines, Civil War battles, defense of Richmond, Eastern Theater of the Civil War, George B. McClellan, historical illustrations, Joseph E. Johnston, May 31 1862, May 31 1862 history, Military Strategy, Peninsula Campaign, Richmond Virginia history, Robert E. Lee taking command, Seven Pines Virginia, tactical draw, this day in history, This Day in History May 31, US History, Virginia history, war on the Peninsula, wounding of Joseph E. Johnston, Share on: Share: This is where the text will go.View our photo collection! View Collection