Fort Wagner, also known as Battery Wagner, was controlled by the Confederates. This Fort was a key point to control. This Fort was located in Morris Island, South Carolina, and covered the southern approaches to Charleston Harbor. It was named after the deceased Lt. Col. Thomas M. Wagner and measured 250 by 100 yard. The surrounding area of the fort was: the Atlantic on the …show more content…
It was directed in three engagements. First, the 54th Massachusetts attacked the west side, specifically at the “curtain of Wagner.” The rest of General Strong's and Colonel Putnam’s brigades attacked the south side. When the 54th Massachusetts had approached the 150 yard mark away from the fort, the Confederate defense had begun. They began shooting cannon and small arms. The 51st North Carolina returned fire. The 54th Massachusetts had been able to reach the “parapet.” It was extremely difficult for the regiment, but after fierce hand-to-hand combat, they were forced backwards. At the southeast part, considered the weakest point, of the fort, the 6th Connecticut continued their assault on the fort. However, the 31st had failed to take position, so General Taliaferro had to gather up some soldiers quickly in order to take the position. The 48th New York also was able to successfully get to the slopes of the