ACW Campaign - Part Twenty Three.

By the evening of 3rd June, Major General Daniel Hill's division was setting up camp on the northern bank of the Charles River, beside the Appleton Bridge. They had moved south through Clanfield and Haven to get to this point. (see map below)

The Union VI Corps had taken the same route, but at a more leisurely pace, they set up camp that evening between Clanfield and Haven. General Franklin had slowed the march as he was in discussions with Clanfield's mayor and town elders. He had warned against any interference to his men and supplies that would need to pass north and south through the town over the coming days.

2nd Brigade, 2nd Division had passed through the town of Stockton at midday, stopping to burn every vessel in the small harbour, before moving on south to eventually make camp beside East Bay at the junction of East Road with Clanfield Road.

Sundown of 4th of June saw the Confederate division arrive at Hampstead Arsenal, Dan Hill rode into the nearby town to warn the townsfolk of the impending battle that would likely take place at the arsenal.

VI Corps spent that evening beside the Charles River, but they chose the south bank a mile south of Appleton.

2nd Brigade, 2nd Division would halt just south of Witton, their march continually halted as they stopped to burn shipping and destroy any dockside installations. Two residents of Witton had been shot dead by men of 2nd Vermont after the former had opened fire from a warehouse on the quayside. One Union soldier had suffered shotgun wounds.

Just after midday on 5th, VI Corps were just two miles from Hampstead and it arsenal.

2nd Brigade, 2nd Division camped north of Port St Charles Bridge, Now they passed over the bridge into the town, their work of destruction would be resumed, Brigadier Brooks warned the residents of severe punishments if they attempted to interfere.

The suburbs of Hampstead can be seen lower left, with the arsenal upper centre.

VI Corps passing a farm with cavalry scouting ahead and on the flank.

Confederate cavalry scouts watch the column approach.

VI Corps file past the farmhouse, the arsenal can be seen in the distance.

The Confederate troops, with the assistance of Hampstead residents had cleared all trees and shrubbery around the arsenal to give the defenders a clear field of fire, whilst denying any cover to the would be attackers.

General Franklin at the head of the column surveys the situation.

The rebels in position manning the walls, ready to make a last stand.

Looking north east along the East Road from Hampstead. The Union column in the distance and the arsenal to the right.

The scene is set for the final battle.