1827 County seat moved from Memphis to Raleigh. Memphis Appeal organized. 1845 U.S. government establishes a navy yard in the city. Memphis and South Memphis merge. On June 6, Union fleet defeats Confederate naval forces in the Battle of Memphis.
Federal troops occupy the city.
Grant names Memphis as hospital and supply base to support the attack on Vicksburg. The Memphis Freedmen's Bureau established to provide services such as banking and education. Memphis regains the county seat. 1878 City's most devastating yellow fever epidemic claims 5,000 lives. Memphis declares bankruptcy, loses its charter, and becomes a Taxing District of the state.