The Battle of Resaca was an important battle fought during the American Civil War on May 14-15, 1864. The Confederate army, led by Gen. Joseph E. Johnston, had set up strong defenses around the town of Resaca, Georgia. They were being pursued by the Federal army, led by Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, who had a much larger army of 110,000 soldiers.
The battle lasted for two days, with both sides attacking and counter-attacking each other. Despite all the fighting, neither side could gain an advantage. Gen. Sherman then decided to try a different tactic. He sent some of his soldiers south to cut off the Confederate’s supply line, which forced Gen. Johnston to abandon his stronghold. The Confederate army escaped during the night across the Oostanaula River, leaving the Federal army to find empty fortifications the next day. The battle resulted in more than 11,000 known casualties.
Each year, the Battle of Resaca Reenactment is hosted by the Georgia Division Reenactors Association, a Civil War reenactment organization. The event is held on the Chitwood Farm, which was part of the original battlefield. The farm hosted some of the heaviest fighting during the conflict, and visitors can still see the original Federal and Confederate entrenchments and the 1864 Western & Atlantic Railroad line.
The reenactment is famous for its aggressive battles and surprise tactics, and scenarios are planned from the research of historian William R. Scaife. Both the Federal and Confederate camps are located close to the respective 1864 lines of battle, and visitors can enjoy civilian activities such as a Memorial Service at the Resaca Confederate Cemetery and a period social and dance.
The Battle of Resaca Reenactment is not just another reenactment; it is put on by reenactors for reenactors and for the enjoyment of the public. It is an opportunity to relive a part of our history and experience what it was like to camp, fellowship, and fight on the very same historic ground as those brave soldiers did nearly 150 years ago.
2023 Re-enactment information:
Held on the original battlefield!
Welcome to the Battle of Resaca Civil War Reenactment! Whether you are a spectator or reenactor, a seasoned veteran of this reenactment, or just attending for the first time, we look forward to seeing you at our event! We have many exciting activities for this year’s reenactment. Check out our event schedule for all of the activities that will be going on during the reenactment weekend.
While in the area, be sure to visit the new Resaca Battlefield Historic Site that is open now on weeekends. This important battlefield is located just off of I-75 at Exit 320 just miles from the reenactment site. The new battlefield park features hiking trails and interpretive markers. A new visitor center will also be opening soon.
Also while in the area, be sure to visit the Fort Wayne Civil War Historic Site just yards from downtown Resaca. This historic fort was part of the defensive earthworks guarding the river and town of Resaca during the 1864 battle. After the battle, it was occupied by Federal troops.
Planned Activities –
- Exciting battles both Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
- Memorial service at the C.S.A. cemetery
- Camp tours and talks with the soldiers
- Continuous living history activities
- Cavalry competition
- Period medical demonstrations
- Period music
- Period church service
- Period dance on Saturday night
- Reenactor used clothing “yard sale”
- Shopping at sutler row for period wares
- Food and beverage vendors
The event will be held rain or shine!
The battles may be delayed while lightning is in the area, but they will begin as soon as possible.
The Gordon County Antique Tractor Club will provide free transportation from the spectator parking area to the battle site each day. They will also be available throughout the event to assist stranded motorists.