Fought on July 1 near the banks of the James River, within site of the spires of Richmond, this battle saw Confederate infantrymen attempt to take Union artillery emplacements, which held an almost unassailable position atop Malvern Hill. Although Federal troops were successful in beating back the Confederate charge, McClellan ordered a "change of base" (better known as a "retreat") immediately following the battle, and Richmond remained in Confederate hands until 1865.