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In late 1861, 54 Union force soldiers were defeated and killed north of the then National Capital. The day in late October was characterized by miscommunications on both sides. Fighting continued throughout the day but finally a fresh contingent of Confederate soldiers chased the Union soldiers down the bluff, onto a narrow beach and into the river. There were too few boats for the beleaguered men and many drowned with their full kit on, trying to escape enemy fire. Only one of the men buried in the 25 graves in the cemetery could be identified. Ball's Bluff Battlefield and National Cemetery is the country's 3rd smallest, being less than 50 square feet. Phone: 703-737-7800
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