Vermillion Bayou
Civil War Louisiana

American Civil War
April 17, 1863

While Rear Admiral David G. Farragut remained above Port Hudson with USS Hartford and Albatross, Major General Nathaniel P. Banks decided to go after Major General Richard Taylor's Confederate forces in western Louisiana. He moved by water to Donaldsonville and began a march to Thibodeaux up Bayou Lafourche. Banks beat Taylor at Fort Bisland and Irish Bend, forcing the Rebel army to retreat up the bayou.

Taylor reached Vermillionville, crossed Vermillion Bayou, destroyed the bridge, and rested.

Banks, in pursuit, sent two columns, on different roads, toward Vermillion Bayou on the morning of April 17. One column reached the bayou while the bridge was burning, advanced, and began skirmishing. Confederate artillery, strategically placed, forced the Yankees back. Then Federal artillery opened a duel with its Confederate counterpart.

After dark, the Rebels retreated to Opelousas.

The Confederates had slowed the Union advance.

Result(s): Union victory

Location: Lafayette Parish

Campaign: Operations in West Louisiana (1863)

Date(s): April 17, 1863

Principal Commanders: Brigadier General Cuvier Grover [US]; Major General Richard Taylor [CS]

Forces Engaged: 4th Division, XIX Army Corps, Army of the Gulf [US]; District of Western Louisiana [CS]

Estimated Casualties: Unknown

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Baton Rouge Louisiana City History and current weather

Sources:
U.S. National Park Service
U.S. Library of Congress.