The Other Athens

The Battle of Athens in Alabama, took place on January 26th 1864.

Union forces of the 9th Illinois Mounted Infantry under Captain Emil Adams were attacked at the Battle of Athens on January 26th 1864. At about four in the morning 600 men of the Confederate 1st Alabama Cavalry under Lieutenant Col Moses W Hannon made an attack against the Union defenders in Athens, Alabama. Although out numbered by six to one and with no fortification Captain Adams’ men were able to hold for two hour, and finally force the Confederates to retreat. There were about twenty Union and thirty Confederate casualties.

Out Numbered But Not Out Fought

The Battle of Athens fought January 26th 1864 in Athens, Limestone, Alabama.

A Union forces under Captain Emil Adams, who was part of the 9th Illinois Mounted Infantry, and the Confederate 1st Alabama Cavalry under Lieutenant Colonel Moses W Hannon met at Athens, Alabama. At about 4 am on January 26th 1864 Confederate cavalrymen; numbering about 600, attacked Athens. Athens was being held by a Union force of about 100. Even though the Union defenders were outnumbered six to one and didn't have any fortification, they were able to hold off the Confederates. After a two hour battle the Confederates were obliged to retreat.

Six To One Odds

Union forces of the 9th Illinois Mounted Infantry under Captain Emil Adams were attacked at the Battle of Athens on January 26th 1864.

At about four in the morning in Athens, Alabama 600 men of the 1st Alabama Cavalry under Lieutenant Colonel Moses Hannon made an attack against the Union defenders. Although out numbered by six to one and with no fortification Captain Adams’ men were able to hold for two hour, and finally forced the Confederates to retreat. There were about twenty Union and thirty Confederate casualties.