General Hardee is now well aware of the Sherman’s intent to move on Savannah and has placed his command between Sherman and Savannah. The Right and Left Wings are both moving in a south easterly direction using the main roads into Savannah. On the 5th, Sherman, traveling with the 17th Corps reaches the Ogeechee Church in what is now Oliver. He took possession of a private home for his headquarters and remained here for several days to coordinate the movements of his command. They were now within 50 miles of Savannah.
Here at Ogeechee Church, a small force of Confederate soldiers about 4,000 strong, established a line here in an attempt to hold the Federal advance in check. After skirmishing with Sherman’s 17th Corps on the 4th, the Confederates were forced to withdraw during the night as they learned Federal forces were crossing the river on their and right in an attempt to surround them. On the 5th, Sherman moved into the area and established a headquarters at a private residence. This church was used as a battlefield landmark and was used by Federal forces as well.The Railroad to Savannah, looking south along the straight and flat tracks from Oliver towards Savannah. The Federals continued to destroy as much of the railroad as possible during their march towards Savannah.
War Was Here 