Battle of Wildcat Creek

The Battle of Wildcat Creek was a minor skirmish that occurred in Sparta, Tennessee. Not much is known about the battle however. Many historians believe that the battle happened on the farm of Confederate General George Dibrell (pictured above). Where the battle actually happened is unknown. This battle started the friendship between George Dibrell and Champ Ferguson. Ferguson and his men helped to reinforce the Confederate forces. In the end the Confederates, led by Dibrell and Ferguson were able to defeat the Union forces led by Colonel Robert Minty. The victory was much celebrated in Sparta. The morning after the battle ended, the womenfolk of Sparta cooked the victorious Confederate forces a big breakfast. This battle helped to keep the Union forces out of the Upper Cumberland area, but had no effect on the outcome of the Civil War. This battle is vital to our understanding of the Civil War in the Upper Cumberland area.

Champ Ferguson and his men were vital in helping George Dibrell win the Battle of Wildcat Creek.

Above is a picture of Colonel Robert Minty.

For more information about the Battle of Wildcat Creek, I recommend the book Confederate Outlaw by Brian McKnight. This book gives a very detailed account of the skirmish.

Stay tuned for more blog posts about tales from Tennessee and beyond.