Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)/Ball's Bluff

BALL'S BLUFF, a spot on the right bank of the Potomac river, in Londoun co., Va., about 33 miles N. W. of Washington; where the bank rises about 150 feet above the level of the river. It is noted as the scene of a battle between a Union force under Col. Edward D. Baker, and a Confederate force under the command of General Evans, Oct. 21, 1861. The battle resulted in the serious defeat of the Union force and the instantaneous death of Colonel Baker.