Mill Springs was one of those rare January battles

The majority of Civil War conflicts occurred in the summer and early fall due to logistical considerations. A uncommon wintertime fight is the Battle of Mill Springs. The coldest weather of the year often occurs in southern Kentucky the week of January 19. Many of Zollicoffer's troops had trouble with their weaponry in 1862 due to the cold and damp weather. Visibility on the battlefield and enemy identification are also seriously hampered by the poor visibility.

General George B. Crittenden came to take over control of Zollicoffer's army in the middle of January 1862. Because it would be extremely difficult and even disastrous to cross the river's powerful currents in order to withdraw, the Rebel camp near Mill Springs was in a vulnerable position. Crittenden made the decision to conduct a preventative attack against Union General George B. Thomas' army because of fear that his army would soon arrive.