Gen. John Hunt Morgan fought for six hours to overcome the small U.S. garrison before moving northward, eventually riding through Kentucky, Indiana, and much of Ohio before surrendering.

After being defeated by Michigan troops along the Green River at the Battle of Tebbs Bend on July 4, Morgan withdrew and circled to the west, hoping to reach Louisville, then lightly defended.

With a vast numerical advantage, Morgan quickly pushed Hanson's advance pickets back through the town's streets.

He trapped many U.S. soldiers in the Louisville and Nashville Railroad depot, but the well-fortified brick building provided considerable protection.

Morgan ordered nearby buildings set on fire, hoping to force Hanson to surrender.