Burning of the Miller house

 

The sources provide an account of the burning of the Miller house during the Battle of Callahan's, which took place on August 26, 1863, as part of Averell's raid into western Virginia. The battle occurred in a valley near Callahan's, a location along the Midland Trail.

The Miller House as a Strategic Position

• The Miller house was situated in a strategically important location during the battle, as it offered a commanding view of the surrounding terrain.

Confederate Defenses

• Confederate forces, under the command of General Sam Jones, had established defensive positions in the valley, likely utilizing the Miller house and its surroundings for cover and observation.

Federal Artillery Assault

• Federal forces, commanded by General Averell, employed artillery to bombard Confederate positions, including the Miller house.
• The source specifically notes that Federal artillery "set fire to the Miller house with shells". This action suggests that the house was a deliberate target, possibly due to its perceived strategic value to the Confederates.

Impact of the Burning

• While the sources don't explicitly detail the impact of the burning on the course of the battle, it likely served to weaken Confederate defenses and demoralize their troops.
• The destruction of the Miller house stands as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of the Civil War on civilian property and the often-blurred lines between military objectives and civilian casualties.

Additional Context from the Sources

• The Battle of Callahan's, fought over two days, marked a significant defeat for Averell, his only loss in over twenty engagements during his command.
• The sources offer vivid descriptions of the battle's intensity, noting that it was a "hot, clear, summer day" and that Confederate soldiers endured extreme thirst during the prolonged fighting.
• Despite the destruction and hardship inflicted by the battle, the sources also highlight moments of humanity and resilience. The account of the Cary girls, who removed debris from their home's chimney after a Confederate shell struck it, exemplifies the courage and determination of civilians caught in the crossfire.

The account of the burning of the Miller house, while brief, serves as a powerful reminder of the war's impact on individuals and communities. It underscores the often-overlooked human cost of conflict, extending beyond battlefield casualties to the destruction of homes and livelihoods.