Jim Martin
Re: Skinner's Farm - Mar 25, 1865
Tue Jul 24 07:36:23 2001


I think you've got it. After doing a quick search on the web, there are a host of references to the "Action at Watkin's House" and the proper descriptions of this engagement. So far I've seen this engagement as Watkins' House, Hatcher's Run, Skinner's Farm and a couple of others I can't remember, right now.

Apparently, this is an engagement somewhat lost in the historical record. I would imagine this is due to the fighting at Fort Stedman occurring on the same day. It probably got crowded out of the press reports.

The primary loss by the Confederates in this action appears to be due to capture with an estimate of 300-400 men taken and shipped to Fort Delaware and Lookout Point.

According to Union accounts the Confederates involved were the 43rd, 59th and 60th Alabama Inf. Regiments, though I've also read reports of some NC soldiers being captured. The 43rd and 59th lost their flags in this engagement. I wonder if Hayes would know if the 41st AL and the 23rd Battalion also participated in this engagement or where they were at the time?

Oh, I didn't ask, do you have anything on John B. (Bibb) Lanford, 2nd Bvt. Lt., 43rd AL Inf., Co. C in your records. This company was from Greene County.

Thanks Alan