Mill Creek Gap

Otherwise known as Buzzard Roost. This natural gateway through Rock Face Ridge was heavily fortified by Confederate forces at Dalton after their retreat from Missionary Ridge. February 25, 1864, the Federal 14th A.C., Dept. of the Cumberland, moving by Tunnel Hill, attempted to seize the gap but were driven back by Stewart's & Breckinridge's divs. At the same time, the gap was assailed from Crow Valley, E. of Rocky Face, by Cruft's & Baird's divs., which was repulsed by Hindman's A.C. These Federal moves were prompted by rumors that Johnston's command had reinforced Polk, facing Sherman's forces at Meridian, Miss.