After the unsuccessful siege of Knoxville, Confederate forces of Lieut. General James Longstreet attacked Union calvary and infantry commanded by Brig. Gen. J.M. Shackleford near Beans’ Station on the Holston River. After defending against several Confederate assaults the Federals retreated through Bean’s Gap to Blains Cross Roads. Longstreet ultimately withdrew into winter quarters at Russellville ending the Knoxville Campaign.
Mossy Creek
On December 29, 1863 Union Brig. Gen. Samuel Sturgis divided his forces sending Col. LaGrange toward Dandridge while he held