Action at Mill Creek

Union Maj. Gen. Philip H. Sheridan began “The Burning” of crops, barns, and mills in the Shenandoah Valley after defeating Confederate Lt. Gen. Jubal A. Early at the Battle of Fisher's Hill on 21-22 Sept. 1864. On 6 Oct., Sheridan’s army began moving northward. His westernmost column, under Brig. Gen. George A. Custer, crossed Mill Creek here on 7 Oct. Cavalrymen under Confederate Brig. Gen. Thomas L. Rosser charged Custer’s rear guard near the creek, attacking directly across the ford and from the flank. Forcing a Union withdrawal, they captured equipment, livestock, and about 50 men. Confederate Capt. Hugh R. T. Koontz, a local resident, was killed and was buried in Mt. Jackson.