The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Civil War: 83 Illinois Infantry(contd) February 1863 found the regiment confronting the enemy 8,000 strong at Fort Donelson.
The fort contained but a small supply of ammunition and the men were instructed to husband what they had. (Make every shot count.) Col. Harding encouraged his men. The cavalry was dismounted and fighting on foot. The battle raged with fury for several hours with the rebels gaining control of three sides of the undefended area by the river.
Gen. Wheeler demanded a surrender which was refused. The enemy furiously assailed the fort, but each time they staggered back with bleeding ranks. Again, a demand for surrender was tendered and again, refused.
At eight o'clock help came from naval gunboats under the command of Capt. Fitch at the moment of extremity. Harding moved his men in a safe place out of the reach of the naval bombardment which hit the rebel lines.
In 20 minutes the field was left to the slain and wounded. Not long after as a recognition of this gallant defense, Col. Harding was wearing the single star of a Brigadier.
1911 History of Henderson County