Friends of
Bentonville
Battlefield
Welcome to Friends of Bentonville Battlefield Inc.
Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site marks the site of the largest land battle fought in North Carolina during the American Civil War and one of the last engagements of the entire war.
Upcoming Events
Visit us for the various events and activities that are planned. All programs and events are free unless otherwise posted.
American Battlefield Trust
The American Battlefield Trust is a charitable organization that preserves and educates the public on the various battlefields in America.
Visit Our Store
Visiting Friends of Bentonville Battlefield is an exciting and rewarding visit for everyone. But don't leave without getting a keepsake to remember your visit!
Brief History
On March 19, 1865, Joseph E. Johnston organized his forces into a hook-shaped line at Cole’s Plantation, blocking the Goldsboro Road. That morning William T. Sherman’s Federal Left Wing stumbled into the Confederate trap, just as it was being set.
After a Union probing attack failed, the Confederates launched a massive assault which drove Gen. William P. Carlin’s XIV Corps division from the field. Morgan’s division managed to hold on despite being surrounded on three sides by Confederate adversaries. Late that afternoon a strong Federal defense of the Morris Farm by the Left Wing’s XX Corps managed to squelch the Confederate advance. The first day’s fighting ended in a tactical draw.
Brief History
On March 19, 1865, Joseph E. Johnston organized his forces into a hook-shaped line at Cole’s Plantation, blocking the Goldsboro Road. That morning William T. Sherman’s Federal Left Wing stumbled into the Confederate trap, just as it was being set.
After a Union probing attack failed, the Confederates launched a massive assault which drove Gen. William P. Carlin’s XIV Corps division from the field. Morgan’s division managed to hold on despite being surrounded on three sides by Confederate adversaries. Late that afternoon a strong Federal defense of the Morris Farm by the Left Wing’s XX Corps managed to squelch the Confederate advance. The first day’s fighting ended in a tactical draw.