Last updated: September 26, 2024
Place
Heth's Salient
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Amenities
1 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
Confederate general Henry Heth commanded the defenses here. While also a salient and susceptible to the same weaknesses of the Muleshoe, Heth’s Salient was well-defended with plenty of artillery and proved impenetrable to U.S. attacks. On May 12, while heavy fighting occurred at the Bloody Angle, the Federal Ninth Corps attacked here, but were repulsed by Heth’s soldiers. Confederate counter-attacks followed, with heavy fighting in the area throughout the day.
One of the units that attacked here, the 17th Michigan, suffered high casualties. A monument, dedicated in 1997, memorializes the regiment’s actions.
While the trenches and earthworks around Heth’s Salient are still here, there are not established walking trails to this location, and it is well off into the woods around thick vegetation.
One of the units that attacked here, the 17th Michigan, suffered high casualties. A monument, dedicated in 1997, memorializes the regiment’s actions.
While the trenches and earthworks around Heth’s Salient are still here, there are not established walking trails to this location, and it is well off into the woods around thick vegetation.