"I've got Savannah"

As the Army marches East, the terrain changes as the approach the sea. No longer crossing counties that are rich in a variety of agriculture and livestock, they are forced to rely on rice for their sustenance. Sherman realizes he needs to reach Savannah, take the city, and resupply quickly.

Upon arriving on the outskirts of Savannah, the Army digs in for a possible siege. Sherman realizes because of lack of supplies, he is going to have to take Savannah and open a lane to the sea in order to contact the Union Navy and resupply his men.

Savannah is guarded by Fort McAllister, which borders the Atlantic. Sherman knows he must take McAllister and he needs to take it quickly. A scouting report of the Fort reveals it is  heavily fortified with 17 foot earth walls that can withstand artillery fire. It has 11 cannons which face the sea, making it virtually impregnable for a frontal assault. However, with a garrison of less then 250 soldiers, it does appear vulnerable from the rear.

The entire success of the march depends on the ability of the Union Soldiers to take the fort. An assault is conducted near dusk and the Union Soldiers charge the rear of the fort under artillery, rifle, and small arms fire. In what is a brief and bloody battle, the Union Soldiers are able to take control of the fort.

Capturing the fort assures Sherman access to the sea and Union supply ships where he will be able to get the supplies he needs for his men. He also knows his march to the sea is a success. Knowing defeat is inevitable, the Confederates abandon Savannah.

Sherman sends a telegraph to Lincoln informing him he has taken Savannah.

Transcript of telegram: