Mine Creek Battlefield

-The Confederate Retreat-

You may not be able to see Trail Marker 6 south of where you are standing at Trail Marker 5. But just follow the trail straight ahead (south) to the next marker.

Mine Creek Battlefield Trail Marker 6 Looking Southeast

Mine Creek Battlefield Trail Marker 6 Looking North

The Confederate line was broken in several places by the charging Federals. Because most of the Confederates were armed with single shot rifles, they were able to shoot only once and then use their weapons as clubs. The charging Federals were armed with sabers and pistols. The close in fighting was club against saber.

The entire Confederate line had been broken is a span of 15-20 minutes. Units from Benteen's Brigade reached Mine Creek and blocked the fords. The Confederates had to abandon most of their artillery (8 guns) as they retreated. They had difficulty escaping across the creek because of the steep banks.