Bob McLendon
Athens, AL
Wed May 16 08:18:02 2001


Thanks Alan. The report of Dodge, who wasn't actually present at Athens, is not entirely correct on the January 26, 1864 fight. Col. M. W. Hannon crossed at Brown's Ferry with about 350 men. Patterson's 5th Alabama Cav (under Col. Johnson)was supposed to join in the attack, but were stopped by a Federal force at Shoal Creek, about 35 miles west of Athens, and never made the fight in Athens. Hannon's command, other than artillery, was comprised of the 53rd Alabama, and Major R. B. Snodgrass' 24th Batt'n, which was originally raised as Co. L, M, and N of the 53rd, and was really an extension of the 53rd. Roddey and Hannon had hoped to surprise the Federals, but had run into a scouting party, which alerted the Federal garrison in Athens. Had Johnson been able to join them, and the surprise attack gone as planned, the results may have been much more favorable. Hannon entered Athens at 4:00 a.m. with his command both mounted and dismounted. I have identified Confederate losses as 2 killed (one Lt. and 1 enlisted), and 7 wounded (4 Lts. and 3 enlisted). I am interested in locating the burial places of 1st Lt. John F. Riddick and Pvt. James Pritchett, who were killed. I've been to Athens, and so far have been unsuccessful in locating a marked grave for them, and suspect there may be none.

Thank you very much for your info on Sulphur Creek Trestle. I did the reenactment of it about 14 years ago. Interesting fight.

Regards,
Bob McLendon
53ala@msn.com