Defense of Fayetteville and the Arsenal-- Part 2: Earthworks and More Companies

Lt.Col. Ferederick L. Childs appealed to the planters of the Fayetteville area to supply 50 to 75 slaves to build earthworks and he directed their construction along the main roads to Fayetteville.

In September 1863, he received authorization to raise Companies C, D and E for the purpose of local defense.  In 1864, the battalion was further expanded by Co. F, which was a mounted unit (so he had his cavalry).  Then came Co. G which was detailed for light duty.

With these additional companies the 2nd Battalion, or "Arsenal Guards" as they were known, had seven companies with about 500 men.

However, now, in February 1865, Col. Childs was being threatened by two superior Union armies, Schofield from Wilmington and Sherman coming north from South Carolina.

Five hundred men just wasn't going to be enough.

--Old Secesh