1863 Hand Drawn Map – Union Assaults On Morris Island Made By A 3rd Rhode Island HA Soldier

Hand drawn map most likely made by a 3rd Rhode Island Heavy Artiilery soldier during the July 1863 assault on Charleston Harbor, South Carolina.  A crudely sketched piece showing the harbor forts; James Island to the left, Morris Island at the center, and Sullivan Island on the right. Fort Sumter in the harbor and the other forts are all named.  On Morris Island are the names of two Union officers; Colonel John Chatfield,  6th Conn. Infantry who was given command of the assaulting regiments on Fort Wagner (2nd), and Brig. Gen, Truman Seymour.

The only unit identified on the map is the 3rd RI HA. Also shown is the position of a Navy monitor on picket.  This attack on Fort Wagner was unsuccessful. The first regiment to attack, with the 54th Massachusetts Infantry lead by Col. Robert Gould Shaw, followed by six more federal regiments.

Ink on lined letter sheet, 5 x 8 inches.  Torn rough edge and folds are originally done at the time of creation.

Nice historical piece, perfect for framing with another document or photo, etc.