knox

The Battle of Fort Knox is one of the most iconic events in American military history. It began in September of 1861, when Confederate forces under General Braxton Bragg laid siege to the massive Union fort located in Kentucky. During the eight-day battle, Confederate forces bombarded the fort with artillery, but to no avail. Despite the Confederate’s superior force, the Union’s defenders managed to hold the fort, and eventually forced a Confederate retreat.
For the Union, the Battle of Fort Knox was a significant victory. In addition to securing the strategically important fort, the Union’s successful defense of the fort proved important in slowing the southward advance of Confederate forces in the Western theater. Additionally, the battle saw the first combat action by the United States Colored Troops, who played a key role in the Union’s victory.
Today, the Battle of Fort Knox is commemorated at the site by the Fort Knox State Historic Site. The monument marks the site of the historic battle, and includes a Visitor Center that features exhibits on the Battle of Fort Knox and the U.S. Colored Troops’ role in it. It also houses monuments to both Union and Confederate soldiers.
Fort Knox’s legacy lives on today, as the fort serves as an important guard post for the country, and as the site of a United States Bullion Depository where the US Gold Reserve is stored. It stands as a reminder of the sacrifice made by those who fought and died in the Battle of Fort Knox, and continues to serve as testimony to the patriotism of both sides in the conflict.