Grant had ordered an attack against the Confederates on the 21st. Due to
bad roads, Sherman was unable to reach here by that time. When the
battle did open on the 23rd, it was not according to plan. Under Grant’s
original plan, Hooker was to hold Lookout Valley with Geary’s and
Cruft’s divisions. The 11th corps was to be brought into Chattanooga to
assist either Sherman or Thomas. Sherman was to cross the river at the
mouth of the Chickamauga Creek during the night of the 23rd, and carry
Missionary Ridge as far south as the tunnel, which at this time was not
occupied by the Confederates. When Sherman reached this position, Thomas
was to move to the left, connect with Sherman’s right, sweep up the
valley and crowd the Confederates from their depot at Chickamauga
Station, Tennessee, their communications and positions on the ridge. The
battle did not progress as planned.