In June of 1864, the Confederate Army constructed a series of heavy earthworks in Cobb County. These defensive positions were sited and built under the supervision of Colonel Presstman, Chief Engineer on Gen. Johnston’s staff. Two major lines were prepared in advance of the army’s movements, and took advantage of the significant topographic features. Additions and adjustments to these major lines formed the extensive works which prompted Gen. Sherman to remark, “The whole country is one vast fort”
The first of these major lines was constructed with the left (south) end near Lost Mtn and running in an ENE direction to Brush Mtn. Though there were additions to the north end of the line, the position on Brush Mtn. formed the right anchor of the line. This and the second major line are shown on the map prepared by Capt. Walter J. Morris, Acting Chief Engineer, Army of Mississippi. There are few Confederate reports that give any exact placement of specific units in this line. The occupation of the positions was basically from June 8 thru J11ne 18. Therefore the story must be pieced together from extant diaries written by participants and some postwar memoirs, as well as contemporary maps.
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