On this date 150 years ago, the awaited attack on Fort Donelson occurred. The Confederate command was transferred to General John Floyd, whose arrival with Confederate reinforcements ultimately proved to be useless. The Federal attack from the right and left was led by General C. F. Smith and General McClernand, respectively, and Grant received further aid from auxiliary troops by the end of the day. Fort Heiman nearby saw some brief action and portions of Bowling Green, Kentucky, were burnt as the Southern evacuation of the area continued.