This Mighty Scourge

I recently finished reading “Flames Beyond Gettysburg: The Gordon Expedition, June 1863.”  Written by Scott L. Mingus, Sr., the book is a narrative of an often forgotten portion of the Gettysburg Campaign – CSA Brigadier General John B. Gordon’s expedition to the Susquehanna River.  Part of CSA Major General Jubal Early’s campaign against Harrisburg, Gordon’s expedition, if successful, would have significantly altered the forthcoming Battle of Gettysburg.

After the Battle of Chancellorsville, CSA General Robert E. Lee decided to strike north of the Mason-Dixon Line.  Using the Shenandoah Valley to screen his Army of Northern Virginia’s movements, Lee pushed north across the Potomac River, through Maryland, and into south central Pennsylvania.  Arriving in Pennsylvania, Lee would send Early’s Division, of CSA Lieutenant General Richard S. Ewell’s 2nd Corps, on a raid towards Harrisburg.  It was believed that Harrisburg would fall easily, leaving Lee with other potential targets, including Philadelphia and Baltimore.

The Federal civilian authorities in Washington City, having determined Lee was moving north, alerted Pennsylvania Governor Andrew G. Curtin who called in his state militia.  US Major General Darius Couch, commanding all activities in Pennsylvania, went to work organizing the troops available to him – mostly invalids, college students and green militia.

Quickly planning his movements on Harrisburg, Early determined to push his division, less John B. Gordon’s command, on a direct route towards Harrisburg.  Gordon’s command, including his brigade, Captain William Tanner’s four gun artillery battery and Lieutenant Colonel Elijah V. White’s Cavalry (35th Virginia Battalion and 17th Virginia Cavalry) was to push through Gettysburg, York County and across the Susquehanna River, at the Wrightsville-Columbia Bridge.  From there he would press on to Harrisburg, from the south, joining forces with Early.  The first shots of the expedition, would be fired near Gettysburg.  The expedition would end at Wrightsville, Pennsylvania, on June 28.  Unfortunately, things did not go as planned, with the ultimate result being the Battle of Gettysburg.

Scott Mingus’s narrative describes the expedition in splendid detail, using many firsthand accounts, from soldiers, and civilians.  Much of the source material that Mr. Mingus uses has been untapped and makes the book an exciting, quick read.  I would encourage all Civil War buffs to add this book to their library – especially those with a interest in Gettysburg.

On the evening of June 28, 2009, the 146th anniversary of the skirmish at Wrightsville, I had the pleasure to interview Mr. Mingus.  He provides a great detail of information on his new book and the John B. Gordon Expedition.  You can listen to the interview by clicking on the links below.

Details about “Flames Beyond Gettysburg”
Written By: Scott L. Mingus, Sr.
Paperback: 624 pages
Publisher: Ironclad Publishing
Date of First Edition: March 2009
ISBN-10: 0967377080

 

 

Scott L. Mingus Interview – 8 Parts
Total Time: 55 minutes, 0 seconds

Part 1 – Scott L. Mingus Interview Pt 1
Time: 6:59
Contents:  Introduction | How Scott became interested in history and the Civil War | Mentors and historians that influenced Scott | Overview of “Flames Beyond Gettysburg” | Why the John B. Gordon Expedition? | Early’s tactical plan | Federal and Pennsylvania State Militia preparations | Federal delaying actions

Part 2 – Scott L. Mingus Interview Pt 2
Time: 8:06
Contents:  Importance of Gettysburg | US Major General Darius Couch – did he receive proper credit? | Use of “green” troops at Gettysburg | Death of George Washington Sandoe | Use of firsthand accounts from civilians | Researching first hand civilian accounts

Part 3 – Scott L. Mingus Interview Pt 3
Time: 7:46
Contents:  Discussion on Scott’s writing style | Negotiated settlement to surrender York | Early acquires a cloth map of Adams County | United States Flag at York

Part 4 – Scott L. Mingus Interview Pt 4
Time: 6:32
Contents:  Raid on Hanover Junction | Federal troops spread out over a wide area of York County | Spies in York County

Part 5 – Scott L. Mingus Interview Pt 5
Time: 7:58
Contents:  John B. Gordon’s actions in York County | Gordon’s push towards Wrightsville | Federal preparations and fortifications at Wrightsville | Plans for protecting Columbia by destroying span on Wrightsville-Columbia Bridge

Part 6 – Scott L. Mingus Interview Pt 6
Time: 6:07
Contents:  Confederate attack on the Federal flanks at Wrightsville | How did the Federals perform at Wrightsville? | How were the Federals outfitted? | Gordon’s attack plan – hit the unexperienced militia

Part 7 – Scott L. Mingus Interview Pt 7
Time: 5:55
Contents:  Wrightsville forfeited – destroying the Wrightsville-Columbia Bridge | Confederates soldiers turned firefighters in Wrightsville

Part 8 – Scott L. Mingus Interview Pt 8
Time: 5:37
Contents:  “Flames Beyond Gettysburg” – the Epilogue | Mr. Mingus’s future book on the Louisiana Tigers | Wrap up

Michael Coker, curator of South Carolina Historical Society, recently started a new group on Facebook - The Lincoln Assassination.  As the group name reflects, the group is dedicated to Abraham Lincoln’s assassination.  The following note from Michael describes the group:

“If anyone is interested in the events and people surrounding the Lincoln assassination, I am the admin for the only such group on Facebook. I have 30 links posted, over 200 related photos, and use the discussion board not only for debate but also to post historic articles of interest. I invite one and all to come join the conversation!”

If you are a member of Facebook, follow this link to join Mr. Coker’s group:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=51623418566

If you are not a member of Facebook, I encourage you to sign up.  There is no cost, and there is a significant amount of Civil War content on Facebook, including a group I started, American Civil War Battlefields.  Check out this new group - it is very interesting.

Patrick DeLacey was born on November 25, 1835 near Carbondale, Pennsylvania.  Not much is known about DeLacey’s early life and education.  DeLacey would enlist in Company A, 143d Pennsylvania Infantry on August 26, 1862.(i)  His rank upon enlistment was sergeant.  The 143d would organize at Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania and officially muster into Federal service on October 18, 1862.(ii)

The 143d Pennsylvania Infantry would be in garrison duty around Washington City.  They would be assigned there from November 7, 1862 through January 17, 1863.  In January 1863 the 143d would be assigned to US Colonel Roy Stone’s Second Brigade, US Major General Abner Doubleday’s Third Division of US Major General John F. Reynolds’s I Corps.  At the Battle of Chancellorsville, Reynolds’s I Corps would be involved in the Federal defense of the Rappahannock River crossing at U.S. Ford.  Holding the far right flank of the defensive line, the I Corps would be instrumental in allowing US Major General Joe Hooker’s Army of the Potomac to safely retreat across the Rappahannock River, ending the primary fighting at Chancellorsville.

On July 1, 1863, during the first day’s fighting at Gettysburg, DeLacey and the 143d Pennsylvania would be posted along the Chambersburg Pike, during the initial Confederate assaults along McPherson’s Ridge.  They stayed in this advanced position throughout the fighting on McPherson’s Ridge, and would be the last Federal regiment to pull back through the streets of Gettysburg.  CSA Lieutenant General A.P. Hill recalled their fighting retreat stating they, “fought for some time with much obstinacy,” and he would never forget their color-bearer, “turning round every now and then to shake his fist at the advancing rebels.”(iii)  They would suffer 253 casualties of the 465 soldiers brought to Gettysburg – a casualty rate of 54.4%.(iv)  After their beating on July 1, the 143d Pennsylvania, and most of the I Corps, would remain in reserve near Cemetery and Culp’s Hills.  DeLacey, and the I Corps, would be involved in the pursuit of CSA General Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia, from July 5–24, 1863.  After the Gettysburg Campaign, the 143d Pennsylvania Infantry would be assigned various garrison duties, until the spring campaign season of 1864. 

Prior to US Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant’s Overland Campaign, the 143d Pennsylvania would be reassigned to Roy Stone’s Third Brigade, US Brigadier General James S. Wadsworth’s Fourth Division of US Major General Gouverneur K. Warren’s V Corps.  At the opening battle of the Overland Campaign, the Battle of the Wilderness, Sergeant Patrick DeLacey would provide his most gallant service to the United States.  On the second day of the battle, May 6, Stone’s brigade was posted west of Brock Road on the Orange Plank Road.  Warren’s V Corps was engaged in a hot battle against CSA Lieutenant General James Longstreet’s 1st Corps.(v)  During the fighting at this important crossroads, DeLacey ran ahead of the Federal lines, shooting a Confederate color-bearer, before returning to his own lines.  His gallantry rallied much of his brigade, and division, allowing for a successful holding action while awaiting additional reinforcements. 

DeLacey would remain in the 143d Pennsylvania Infantry through the remainder of the Civil War, fighting at Spotsylvania Court House, North Anna River, Cold Harbor, Petersburg and the Weldon Railroad.  The 143d Pennsylvania would be ordered to Hart’s Island, New York, in February 1865, to guard the prison camp there.  During his service, Patrick DeLacey would be promoted to full Sergeant Major on October 6, 1864 and Second Lieutenant on May 24, 1865.  For his actions at the Wilderness, DeLacey was awarded the Medal of Honor, on April 24, 1894.  His citation read:

Running ahead of the line, under a concentrated fire, he shot the color bearer of a Confederate regiment on the works, thus contributing to the success of the attack.(vi)

After the Civil War, Lieutenant Patrick DeLacey would run for Superior Judge in Pennsylvania.  He would die in Scranton, Pennsylvania on April 27, 1915.  He was 84.  He was buried at Saint Catherine’s Cemetery in Moscow, Pennsylvania.  DeLacey is a true American HERO.

(i)  Ancestry.com was used to research this article.  Click here for additional information.
(ii) The Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System was used to research this article.
(iii) Trudeau, Noah Andre, Gettysburg: A Testing of Courage, published by Harper Collins in 2002, Pg. 233.
(iv) Trudeau, Noah Andre, Gettysburg: A Testing of Courage, published by Harper Collins in 2002, Pg. 567.
(v) Rhea, Gordon C., The Battle of the Wilderness: May 5–6, 1864, published by Louisiana State University Press in 1994, Pg. 296.
(vi) R.J. (Bob) Pfoft, Editor, United States of America’s Medal of Honor Recipients, Fifth Edition, Pg. 849.

Those of you that follow my blog know that I am a strong advocate of the Civil War Preservation Trust (CWPT).  This wonderful organization’s primary mission is the preservation of Civil War battlefields – ground that can be lost forever to urban sprawl.  They have been very successful over the past decade in saving land, with over 25,000 acres saved, to date.  However, there is still plenty of work to be done.  According to the CWPT website, only 20% of hallowed Civil War ground has been saved.  Additionally, we are losing approximately one acre of hallowed ground per hour.(i)  So what exactly does the Civil War Preservation Trust do?  Their mission statement, as written on their website, really sums it up.

Our Mission: The Civil War Preservation Trust is America’s largest non-profit organization (501–C3) devoted to the preservation of our nation’s endangered Civil War battlefields.  The Trust also promotes educational programs and heritage tourism initiatives to inform the public of the war’s history and the fundamental conflicts that sparked it.(ii)

Based in Washington D.C., the Civil War Preservation trust has a professional staff that specializes in the many functions of land preservation: real estate, grants and government relations.  Additionally the Trust employs a staff of professionals that manage their website, databases, communications, membership development, events and educational programs.

While so many of us enjoy visiting major battlefields, managed by the National Park Service, many of the most pivotal fields of battle are not protected by Federal or state governments.  They are privately owned lands that are vulnerable to development.  This is where the Civil War Preservation Trust really shines.  Working with local and state governments, and other organizations, they can quickly organize an acquisition strategy to save valuable lands – lands that might end up housing a strip mall, lumber yard or parking lot.  Obviously their is a cost associated with land preservation.  Members of the CWPT are quickly alerted to time sensitive Civil War battlefield preservation opportunities.  In most cases the Trust has already secured matching funds that help the member’s donation double, triple or quadruple.  These matching grants are critical in acquiring large tracts of lands that can cost millions of dollars.

When an individual becomes a member of the Civil War Preservation Trust they immediately receive benefits: the wonderful quarterly magazine, Hallowed Ground, high quality battlefield maps, monthly e-Newsletter, invitation to the Annual CWPT Conference and rental car discounts.  But most importantly you become involved in saving battlefields that future generations of Civil War enthusiasts will enjoy.  Your gifts to the Trust are tax deductible.

I encourage each of you to consider becoming a member of this important organization.  If you are already a member, please consider increasing your membership level – perhaps to a Color Bearer level.  You can be confident that your membership dues, and battlefield campaign donations, will be put to use saving battlefields.  While there are fixed costs that the organization incurs to sustain its activities the CWPT operates very efficiently with most of their members’ money being used to save land.

Recently I wrote an article about the Wilderness Wal-Mart, and the negative impact it will have on the Wilderness Battlefield, if it’s built where they are planning to build it.  This is an immediate threat that can be alleviated.  Please read my blog article on Wilderness Wal-Mart for more information: Help The Civil War Preservation Trust Save the Wilderness Battlefield.

On Monday, June 22, 2009, I had the distinct honor to speak with Mr. James Lighthizer, president of the Civil War Preservation Trust.  The eight part audio interview can be listened to by clicking on the following links.

Interview with Jim Lighthizer, President of the Civil War Preservation Trust
Total Time: 51 minutes 29 seconds

Part 1 – Jim Lighthizer - Civil War Preservation Trust Interview Pt 1
Time: 8:14
Contents:  Opening and welcome | History of the Civil War Preservation Trust | Mission of the Civil War Preservation Trust | Battlefield preservation priorities | How the Trust decides what property to target | Race against time | “200 Year Rule” | Mr. Lighthizer’s interest in the Civil War | How Mr. Lighthizer became involved in the CWPT

Part 2 – Jim Lighthizer - Civil War Preservation Trust Interview Pt 2
Time: 7:14
Contents:  What the Civil War Preservation trust means to me | CWPT members are part of a large family | The Trust is as strong as its individual members | Success stories of the CWPT

Part 3 – Jim Lighthizer - Civil War Preservation Trust Interview Pt 3
Time: 6:57
Contents:  Glendale and Malvern Hill success story | Matching funds and grants | The Civil War Preservation Trust always has “skin-in-the-game” | Fixed costs of running the Trust | Reaching potential members through technology

Part 4 – Jim Lighthizer - Civil War Preservation Trust Interview Pt 4
Time: 6:47
Contents:  Update on the Wilderness Wal-Mart | Other current preservation opportunities

Part 5 – Jim Lighthizer - Civil War Preservation Trust Interview Pt 5
Time: 6:50
Contents:  Preservation opportunities in the Shenandoah Valley | Working with local groups | Cedar Creek battlefield risk | Membership goals | Color Bearer membership

Part 6 – Jim Lighthizer - Civil War Preservation Trust Interview Pt 6
Time: 6:00
Contents:  Key staff additions have created value | CWPT’s commitment to its fiduciary responsibilities | Celebrity spokespeople | CWPT’s new website | Animated battlefield maps

Part 7 – Jim Lighthizer - Civil War Preservation Trust Interview Pt 7
Time: 5:10
Contents:  CWPT Teacher’s Institute | The battlefield as an outdoor classroom | Proper teaching sow the seeds of the future

Part 8 – Jim Lighthizer - Civil War Preservation Trust Interview Pt 8
Time: 4:17
Contents:  New and exciting things going on at the CWPT | Success at Richmond and Mill Springs, Kentucky | A saved battlefield is a legacy that lasts forever | Wrap up and closing

(i) For additional information refer to the Civil War Preservation Trust’s website by clicking here.
(ii)  Refer to the “About Us” page of the Civil War Preservation Trust’s website by clicking here.

I recently read a very interesting new book, “The State of Jones,” by Sally Jenkins, and John Stauffer.  Due to be released by Doubleday on June 23, 2009, this book details Southern Unionism in the state of Mississippi, during the Civil War.  The book is non-fiction and focuses on the life of Newton Knight, and the family slave, Rachel.  Knight is against secession and questions slavery.  While his family is pro-slavery, Newton maintains strong feelings against it.  Knight was drafted into Company F, 7thMississippi Infantry Battalion.  He would fight at Corinth, after which time he would desert.  After being captured, he would go back to his infantry unit as an alternative to being executed.  He and his 7th Mississippi Infantry Battalion would be in the trenches at Vicksburg, and would be paroled after Vicksburg fell to US Major General Ulysses S. Grant, on July 4, 1863.  Once again, Knight would desert – this time for the last time.  In October 1863, the Unionists of Jones County would meet at Smith’s Store, near Ellisville, and form the Jones County Scouts.  Knight, believed to be the ablest and bravest of the “Scouts,” was elected the captain.  For the remainder of the Civil War the Jones County Scouts would harass the Confederate army, and when possible aid the Federal armies.  They became guerrillas, destroying transportation hubs and other important facilities.  Knight would receive special commendation from brevet US Brigadier General William L. McMillen, for his support of the Federal army, during the closing months of the Civil War.  Unfortunately, Knight’s difficulties were not over withthe close of the war.  He would continue to have difficulties raising his family, and would have an open relationship with the family’s previous slave, Rachel.  He would live much of the remainder of his life on his farm, always on the watch for those plotting against him.

“The State of Jones” is a book that is long overdue.  It is a real page turner – often biting off an hour of time, in what seems to be a few minutes.  Most importantly, Jenkins and Stauffer, through great research and writing, provide an important glimpse into an often overlooked portion of our country’s history.  This book is a must read for all Civil War enthusiasts.

About the Authors:

SALLY JENKINS is an award-winning journalist for the Washington Post and the author of eight books, three of which were New York Times bestsellers, most notably It’s Not About the Bike with Lance Armstrong. Her work has been featured in GQ and Sports Illustrated, and she has acted as a correspondent on CNBC as well as on NPR’s All Things Considered. She lives in New York City.(i)

JOHN STAUFFER writes and lectures on the Civil War era, antislavery, social protest movements, and visual culture.  He is the author of seven books and more than 45 articles, including The Black Hearts of Men:  Radical Abolitionists and the Transformation of Race (2002), which won four major awards, including the Frederick Douglass Book Prize, the Avery Craven Book Award, and the Lincoln Prize runner-up.  His essays have appeared in Time Magazine, Raritan, New York Post, 21st: The Journal of Contemporary Photography, and The Harvard Review; and he has appeared on national radio and television shows.  His new book, GIANTS: The Parallel Lives of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, was published in November 2008 by TWELVE.

John received his Ph.D. from Yale University in 1999, began teaching at Harvard that year, and was tenured in 2004.  He lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with his wife, Deborah Cunningham, and their two-year-old son, Erik Isaiah Stauffer.(ii)

Details about “The State of Jones”
Written by: Sally Jenkins and John Stauffer
Hardcover: 416 pages
Publisher: Doubleday
Date of First Edition: June 23, 2009
ISBN-10: 0385525931

 

 

On May 26, 2009, I had the pleasure of interviewing Sally, and John, about their soon-to-be-released book, “The State of Jones.”  The interview provides a great deal of insight into their collaboration on this wonderful book.  I am sure you will enjoy listening to the interview, as much as I enjoyed doing it.

Sally Jenkins & John Stauffer Interview - 10 Parts
Total Time: 1 hour, 4 minutes, 13 seconds

Part 1 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 1
Time: 6:14
Contents:  Introductions | Background about “The State of Jones” | How Jenkins and Stauffer began their collaboration

Part 2 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 2
Time: 5:15
Contents:  Sally’s prose and writing style | Working with Gary Ross | The State of Jones (the movie) | Why write about Jones County?

Part 3 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 3
Time: 7:17
Contents:  Significance of Southern Unionism in Mississippi | Research and finding new materials for “The State of Jones” | Understanding Newton Knight | Newton Knight and desertion

Part 4 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 4
Time: 4:08
Contents:  Difficulties in researching “The State of Jones” | The use of parallel stories

Part 5 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 5
Time: 4:30
Contents:  The relationship between Newton and Serena Knight, and Rachel | Local slave communities support for the Jones County Scouts | Newton’s relationship with the local community after the Civil War

Part 6 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 6
Time: 8:25
Contents:  Jones County Scouts formed | Detail on Jones County and Southern Unionism | Confederate concerns about Unionism in Mississippi | Use of swamps in Mississippi by renegades and refugees | Scouts evading Confederate pursuers | Guerilla raids by Jones County Scouts

Part 7 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 7
Time: 6:43
Contents:  Rachel as a spy for the Jones County Scouts | Slaves and Jones County Scouts knew they needed each other | Deserters and runaways received support from Rachel and the slave community | Rachel and Newton’s wartime partnership | Pursuit of the Scouts by Lowery’s 6th Mississippi Veterans | Southern Unionists believed they had a right to secede from the Confederacy

Part 8 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 8
Time: 4:37
Contents:  Swamps as the “great equalizer” | Standing Confederate order - do not leave a company alone in Jones County | Lowery’s lasting legacy - summary execution | Difficulties for Newton Knight after the Civil War

Part 9 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 9
Time: 8:39
Contents:  Knight’s frustration with the Federal government | Application of “new rights” during Reconstruction | Ku Klux Klan and pressure on black suffrage | Newton as a target of post war violence | Newton deeding Rachel 40 acres

Part 10 - The State of Jones Interview Pt 10
Time: 8:25
Contents:  Newton’s ability to evade trouble | Knight kin protecting Newton | 20th Century legal proceedings against the Knight family | Civil Rights era as the Second Reconstruction | Future projects for Stauffer and Jenkins | Thank you and wrap up

Other books by Sally Jenkins and John Stauffer

It’s Not About the Bike: My Journey Back To Life
Written by:  Sally Jenkins
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher:  Berkley Trade
Date of Publication:  September 4, 2001

The Real All Americans
Written by:  Sally Jenkins
Paperback:  368 pages
Publisher:  Anchor
Date of Publication:  August 12, 2008

The Black Hearts of Men: Radical Abolitionists and the Transformation of Race
Written by:  John Stauffer
Paperback:  384 pages
Publisher:  Harvard University Press
Date of Publication:  March 30, 2004

Giants: The Parallel Lives of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln
Written by:  John Stauffer
Hardcover:  448 pages
Publisher:  Twelve
Date of Publication:  November 3, 2008

(i) Sally Jenkins author spotlight, at RandomHouse.com.
(ii) John Stauffer bio, at Harvard.com.

Today, I had the opportunity to visit Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield.  We vacation in southwest Missouri every June, so I consider this my “home” battlefield.  I truly enjoy traipsing around this battlefield, as it is so well preserved.  While it is close to Springfield, Missouri, near the small community of Republic, it has not been subjected to the urban sprawl that so many other battlefields are enduring.  The Battle of Wilson’s Creek was the second major battle of the Civil War, and the first in the Western theater.  I will be writing a feature length article on the Battle of Wilson’s Creek, for its 148th anniversary, on August 10.  In the meantime, I have some pictures of this pristine battlefield to share with you today.

Picture 1: Wilson’s Creek – Near Gibson’s Mill 

 

 

 

 

 

This area is the northern end of the Confederate camps.  The Confederates would be surprised here by US Major General Nathanial Lyon’s Federal troops.

Picture 2: Ray Cornfield 

 

 

 

 

 

Significant fighting took place around the Ray cornfield.  From the south end of the field, the Confederate troops pushed part of the Federal forces north across Wilson’s Creek.

Picture 3: The Ray house 

 

 

 

 

 

The Ray family was able to watch much of the fighting from their front porch.  CSA Colonel Richard Weightman died here.  US Brigadier General Nathanial Lyon’s body was brought here and laid in a bed, after the fighting ended.

Picture 4: Backoff’s Battery 

 

 

 

 

 

Backoff’s Battery pounded the Confederate soldiers caught between US Colonel Franz Sigel’s troops, approaching from the south, and Lyon’s troops from the north.  The battery was part of Sigel’s command.

Picture 5: Guibor’s Confederate Battery 

 

 

 

 

 

Henry Guibor’s Battery was unlimbered near the base of Bloody Hill.  From here, they dueled with Federal artillery commanded by James Totten.  After four charges, the Confederates would find the Federals had abandoned Bloody Hill.

Picture 6: Bloody Hill from the Federal position 

 

 

 

 

 

The view from the Federal position on Bloody Hill.  This high ground commanded the surrounding terrain, allowing the Federals to withstand multiple Confederate charges.

Picture 7: Totten’s 2nd U.S. Artillery Battery 

 

 

 

 

 

2nd U.S. Artillery Battery commanded by James Totten.  These guns poured a devastating fire into the charging Confederate troops.

Picture 8: US Brigadier General Nathanial Lyon’s monument 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stone tablet marking the approximate spot US Brigadier General Nathanial Lyon was killed.  After his mortal wounding the Federal position deteriorated and they were forced to retreat towards Springfield, Missouri.

Watch for a complete article on the fascinating battle of Wilson’s Creek, around August 10 – the anniversary of the battle.

I wanted to provide my readers with an update on my whereabouts this week.  We are on our family vacation at Table Rock Lake, in the Ozark Mountains.  I’ve been fishing and scuba diving, but I’ve only posted one article in the past several days, a very interesting look at the 17th Indiana Infantry Regiment, of Wilder’s Lightning Brigade, I do however, have a couple other articles I am working on. 

Late this week, I will be publishing my review of “The State of Jones,” a wonderful narrative of Jones County, Mississippi during the Civil War, and Reconstruction.  I interviewed authors Sally Jenkins and John Stauffer recently, and the ten part interview will be part of the review on “The State of Jones.”  The interview was fascinating and I am certain you will enjoy listening to it.

For the remainder of the week, I am going scuba diving a couple more times and I hope to finish James Hessler’s much anticipated book, “Sickles at Gettysburg.”  Keep posted for a review on it during the next couple of weeks.  Additionally I will publish a review/interview with Earl J. Hess about his soon-to-be-released book, “In the Trenches of Petersburg: Field Fortifications and Confederate Defeat.”

Take care, and have a great week!

The 17th Indiana Infantry regiment was organized in Indianapolis, Indiana during May, 1861.(i)  Officially mustered into Federal service on June 12, 1861, they were part of Indiana’s quota for Abraham Lincoln’s call for 75,000 state militia volunteers.  US Colonel Milo Hascall was appointed to lead the regiment.  With Hascall’s appointment to brigadier general, John T. Wilder was appointed the regiment’s colonel, on March 2, 1862.

After mustering into Federal service, the regiment was ordered to Parkersburg, West Virginia (at this time Parkersburg was still part of Virginia), arriving in early July.  The 17th Indiana would be attached to the District of Kanawha through September 1861.  They would be involved in the actions at Cheat Mountain, Elkwater and Greenbrier River.  From November 1861 through November 1862 the 17th would be assigned to the 15th Brigade of the Army of the Ohio.  During this time, they would take part in US Major General Don Carlos Buell’s capture of Nashville.  After arriving for a portion of the last day’s fight, at the Battle of Shiloh, they would be involved in the advance, and siege, of Corinth, from April 29 – May 30, 1862. 

From June to August 1862, the regiment would take part in the Army of the Ohio’s operation in northern Alabama and central Tennessee.  The operation, intended to contain CSA General Braxton Bragg’s Army of the Mississippi, was largely unsuccessful as Bragg was able to march through Tennessee and into Kentucky.  The 17th Indiana was now assigned to the Fifteenth Brigade, Sixth Division of the II Corps, Army of the Ohio.  Taking part in the pursuit of Bragg’s army, the 17th Indiana was assigned garrison duty at Fort Craig, near Munfordville, Kentucky.  This was a vital installation for the United States as it protected the Green River Bridge of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad – a main supply line for the Federal troops in Nashville.  On September 14, 1862, CSA Brigadier General James R. Chalmers brigade arrived and demanded the surrender of Fort Craig.  Wilder refused to surrender.  Chalmers commenced siege operations against the fort, containing only three infantry regiments.  Wilder, understanding that reinforcements were arriving, demanded to meet with division commander, CSA Major General Simon Bolivar Buckner, who had recently arrived.  His purpose was to inspect the size of the Confederate forces.  Incredulously, Buckner allowed Wilder to pass through the lines, under a flag of truce, to inspect his forces.  Determined not to cause injury to nearby civilians, Wilder formally surrendered his command, including the 17th Indiana, on September 17.  Wilder would remain a prisoner of war, for two months, before being exchanged.(ii)

From October 1862, to February 1863, the 17th Indiana would be garrisoned at Nashville, Tennessee.  In December 1862, the 17th Indiana would be assigned to the First Brigade, First Division of the XIV Corps.  With this move, they would also have a new corps commander, US Major General George H. Thomas.  From February 1863, to June 1863, the 17th would be garrisoned, with the US Major General William T. Rosecrans’s Army of the Cumberland, at Murfreesboro, Tennessee.  With the move to Murfreesboro, the 17th would be reassigned to the Second Brigade, Fifth Division of the XIV Corps.  Colonel J.T. Wilder was now in command of the brigade that included the 17th Indiana.  In the spring and early summer, of 1863, Wilder determined to outfit his infantry with horses, and Spencer repeating rifles.  The Federal government initially refused to pay for horses, or repeating rifles, so Wilder secured a personal loan to acquire the Spencers.  Initially called the “Hatchet Brigade,” as they also carried hatchets, instead of sabers, they became formally known as Wilder’s Lightning Brigade – of mounted infantry.  From June 23, through July 7, Wilder’s Lightning Brigade, and the 17th Indiana, would participate in the Tullahoma Campaign.  Designed to push CSA General Braxton Bragg’s Army of the Tennessee, into northern Georgia.  As part of the campaign, the Lightning Brigade was instrumental in securing Hoover Gap, and Manchester, Tennessee, in action from June 24–27.(iii)

After successfully pushing Bragg out of middle Tennessee, Rosecrans determined to create a diversion to shield his true objective, Bragg’s army bivouacked near Lafayette, Georgia.  Wilder would be sent, as commander of an independent expedition against Chattanooga.  Known as Second Chattanooga, it primarily used artillery to divert Bragg’s attention from a growing threat to his left flank, by the Army of the Cumberland.  The 17th Indiana participated in this independent action, which was very successful in masking the Army of the Cumberland.  Wilder would formally capture Chattanooga on September 18, 1863.  This action led up to the Battle of Chickamauga, from September 19–21, 1863.  Wilder, and his Lightening Brigade, would arrive along the Chickamauga River and be placed by Rosecrans along high ground, on his right flank.  During the action on  September 20, Wilder, the 17th Indiana and the rest of the Lightning Brigade would be instrumental in a holding action that prevented Rosecrans’s Army of the Cumberland from being flanked.  Today a large stone tower marks the ground near the Widow Glen’s house.  Wilder would receive high commendations from XIV Corps commander, George Thomas.  Thomas who would earn the moniker, “Rock of Chickamauga,” for his famous defense of Snodgrass Hill, understood how important Wilder’s holding action was to the preservation of the Army of the Cumberland, on September 20.(iv)

Over the coming weeks, the 17th Indiana would be involved in several skirmishes with CSA Major General Joseph Wheeler’s Confederate cavalry corps: Thompson’s Cove (October 3), Glass Cocks (October 4), and Murfreesboro Road, near McMinnville, Tennessee (October 4).  From November 23–27, the 17th Indiana would be involved in the Chattanooga campaign, and the pursuit of Bragg’s Army of the Tennessee to Ringgold, Georgia.  US Major General Ulysses S. Grant, now in command of the Department of the Mississippi (everything west of the Shenandoah Valley), would send the Lightning Brigade to the aid of US Major General Ambrose Burnside, at Knoxville, Tennessee.  From November 28 to December 8, they would march to Knoxville, only to determine that  Burnside’s troops had matters under control.  For the next six months, the 17th Indiana would be garrisoned at Pulaski, Charleston and Nashville.  On January 4, 1864 the regiment’s three year term expired.  Veterans re-enlisted and new recruits filled the ranks.  Those re-enlisting were on furlough through April 2, 1864.

Starting on May 1, 1864, the 17th Indiana would be involved in US Major General William T. Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign.  Now part of the Third Brigade, Second Cavalry Division of US Brigadier General James H. Wilson’s Cavalry Corps, the 17th would continue its tradition as mounted infantry.  Fighting against CSA General Joseph E. Johnston’s Army of the Tennessee, the 17th Indiana would see action at: Resaca (May 14–15), Dallas (May 18–25), New Hope Church and Allatoona Hills (May 25 – June 5), Marietta and Kennesaw Mountain (June 10 – July 2) and Chattahoochie River Bridge (August 26 – September 2).  After the capture of Atlanta, Wilson’s Cavalry Corps would see action against CSA General John Bell Hood’s Army of the Tennessee in northern Alabama and central Tennessee.  On November 1, the 17th Indiana would be dismounted and ordered to Louisville, Kentucky.  They would remain on duty at Louisville until December 28, when they were moved to Nashville, and then Gravelly Springs, Alabama, where they would stay through March 1865.  From March 22 – April 24, 1865 the 17th would be involved in Wilson’s Cavalry raid on Macon, Georgia.  During this period of time, they would see action at Plantersville, Alabama (April 1), Selma, Alabama (April 2), Montgomery, Alabama (April 12) and Columbia (April 16).  On April 20, they would be involved in the capture of Macon, Georgia.  They would remain at Macon, Georgia through August.(v)

The 17th Indiana would be officially mustered out of Federal service on August 8, 1865.  During the Civil War, the 17th would suffer a total of 237 casualties.

(i) The Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System was used to research this article.
(ii) Battle of Munfordville, at Wikipedia, was used to research this article.
(iii) John T. Wilder, at Wikipedia, was used to research this article.
(iv) Battle of Chickamauga, at History.net, was used to research this article.
(v) The Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System was used to research this article.

On June 9, 1863, Federal cavalry, commanded by US Major General Alfred Pleasanton, clashed with the famed Confederate cavalry of CSA Major General J.E.B. Stuart.  In what would be the largest cavalry battle on North American soil, over 20,000 mounted cavaliers battled at Brandy Station, near Culpeper, Virginia.  The Battle of Brandy Station, also known as Fleetwood Hill, was the opening salvo of the Gettysburg Campaign.

Battle of Brandy Station (Fleetwood Hill)
Click here for a map of the Brandy Station Battlefield courtesy of the Civil War Preservation Trust.(i)

Location: Brandy Station, Virginia (near Culpeper)
Date: June 9, 1863
Federal Commander: Alfred Pleasanton, Major General
Confederate Commander: J.E.B. Stuart, Major General

With the Army of the Potomac demoralized from their defeat at the Battle of Chancellorsville, in early May, CSA General Robert E. Lee was developing plans to invade the North.  Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia was bivouacked in the vicinity of Culpeper, Virginia with his cavalry, commanded by CSA Major General J.E.B. Stuart camped north of Culpeper, near Brandy Station.  On June 8, Lee had attended a “Grand Review” of his cavalry forces just south of the railroad depot, at Brandy Station.  They were unaware of a “gathering storm” to their southeast.  Federal Cavalry commander US Major General Alfred Pleasanton had been sent, by Army of the Potomac commander, US Major General Joseph Hooker, to determine the location of Lee’s cavalry, who were assumed to be preparing a raid on his supply lines.  By the evening of June 8, in what was referred to as a “spoiling raid,” Pleasanton’s cavalry approached Kelly’s Ford, on the Rappahannock River.  The stage was set for a surprise attack on Stuart’s cavalry.  Pleasanton’s attacking force included two cavalry divisions under US Brigadier General John Buford and two cavalry divisions under US Brigadier General David McM. Gregg.  Additionally, Pleasanton had two V Corps infantry brigades commanded by brigadier generals David Russell and Adelbert Ames.  Russell supported the cavalry wing commanded by Gregg, while Ames supported the cavalry wing commanded by Buford.  Facing them was J.E.B. Stuart’s entire cavalry division of Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia.(ii)  Stuart’s Confederate cavalry was positioned just west of Brandy Station, around Fleetwood Hill.  Three brigades of cavalry commanded by brigadier generals W.H.F. “Rooney” Lee, William E. “Grumble” Jones and Wade Hampton held a line north of Fleetwood Hill, near the St. James Church.  Lee held the far left flank, protected by a stone wall.  Jones held the line around the brick church, with Hampton holding the right flank, extending across the Beverly Ford Road.

Pleasanton’s plan called for Buford to cross Beverly Ford at first light, attacking the Confederate position around St. James Church.  Meanwhile, Gregg’s division of 2,200 troops was to cross Kelly’s Ford, attacking Stuart near Fleetwood Hill, from the southeast.  Crossing Beverly Ford at 4:00 A.M., Buford’s troops literally caught the Confederates sleeping.  US Colonel Benjamin “Grimes” Davis led his troops across first.  He would fall early in the action, with a mortal head wound.  The Confederates were able to quickly organize an effective defensive line.  The two sides would fight hand-to-hand, with sabers, revolvers and rifles, for several hours, attempting to control the wooded area around St. James Church.  The 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry, commanded by US Major Robert Morris, Jr., would lead a gallant charge against Jones’ brigade, near the church, with many of the brave Pennsylvania cavaliers falling in a tremendous cross fire from Jones’ brigade and CS Major Robert Beckham’s horse artillery.  In an effort to turn the Confederate left flank Buford re-deployed most of his cavalry to his right, near the Cunningham farm.  “Rooney” Lee’s cavalry held this sector, and had a clear advantage behind the stone wall.  Lee’s dismounted cavalry would continue to firmly hold their lines, turning away several charges by the Federal troopers.(iii)

Around 10:30 A.M., J.E.B. Stuart became aware of a growing danger, to his rear.  Gregg’s cavalry, having crossed earlier in the morning at Kelly’s Ford, had arrived near Brandy Station.  Stuart, recognizing that it was imperative to hold the high ground of Fleetwood Hill, ordered the brigades of Hampton and Jones, to pull back to Fleetwood Hill – where his headquarters and supply train were located.  Being unsupported, Lee’s line soon became untenable and he would withdraw, through the Yew Hills, to Fleetwood Hill.  Buford would pursue Lee, fighting his rear guard the entire way.  With his entire cavalry now on Fleetwood Hill, Stuart held a formidable defensive line – on the high ground.  Spirited cavalry fighting would occur on the southern portions of Fleetwood Hill.  One Confederate cavalier would later describe the action, “Thousands of flashing sabers steamed in the sunlight; the rattle of carbines and pistols mingled with the roar of cannon; armed men wearing the blue and gray became mixed in promiscuous confusion; the surging ranks swayed up and down the sides of Fleetwood Hill, and dense clouds of smoke and dust rose as a curtain to cover the tumultuous and bloody scene.”(iv)  After several charges by Hampton’s cavalry brigade, the Confederate cavalry finally beat back the Federal cavalry – securing the ground from Fleetwood Hill south, and to the east, towards Brandy Station.

Stuart, recognizing an opportunity to destroy Buford’s cavalry, sent Lee’s brigade to counterattack.  Charging the Federal troops, Lee would severely punish the enemy.  After receiving orders, Buford retreated across Beverly Ford.  The fighting at Brandy Station was over.

Campaign: Gettysburg

Outcome: Inconclusive

Troop Strengths:
Federal: 11,000
Confederate: 9,500

Casualties: (Estimated):
Federal: 875
Confederate 515

Battle Aftermath:
The Battle of Brandy Station often times is considered a Confederate victory.  The National Park Service, on their site, deemed it inconclusive.  While J.E.B. Stuart held the battlefield after the fighting ended, the Federal cavalry had made a huge leap forward.  No longer would it be considered inferior to the Army of Northern Virginia’s mounted arm, no longer did they lack leadership and no longer would the Confederates take them for granted.  Unfortunately, Pleasanton was unable to ascertain the location of Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia.  While R.E. Lee watched part of the battle, and much of his infantry was close by, at Culpeper, Joseph Hooker’s cavalry was unable to provide him with this intelligence.  Over the coming weeks Hooker and his successor, US Major General George Gordon Meade, would operate in a vacuum, unaware of the exact location of the Army of Northern Virginia.  The campaign, marked by the opening battle at Brandy Station, would culminated during the first three days of July, in the small crossroads town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

(i) For more information about becoming a member of the Civil War Preservation Trust, click here.
(ii) The Battle of Brandy Station, at bivouacbooks.com, was used to research this article.
(iii) Kennedy, Frances H., The Civil War Battlefield Guide, published by Houghton Mifflin in 1998, Pg. 204.
(iv) Kennedy, Frances H., The Civil War Battlefield Guide, published by Houghton Mifflin in 1998, Pg. 204.

On June 8, 1862, CSA Major General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson was hard at work, in the Shenandoah Valley.  Over the past 2 1/2 months, Jackson had worked to rid the Shenandoah Valley of US Major General John Fremont’s army.  Jackson would first meet up with a portion of the Federal armies at Kernstown, on March 23.  While US Colonel Nathan Kimball was able to turn Jackson’s left flank, causing Jackson to retreat, it would be viewed as a strategic victory for the Confederacy – keeping the Federal forces tied to the Valley, where they could not reinforce US Major General George B. McClellan’s Army of the Potomac, then engaged in the Peninsula Campaign, against CSA General Joseph E. Johnston.  Jackson would move up the Valley (south) and attack a small Federal force at McDowell, Virginia, under the command of US Brigadier General Robert C. Schenck.  Over two days, on May 8–9, Jackson’s combined army attacked Schenck’s forces, finally overwhelming them – pushing the further west.  This had important strategic implications as it prevented Schenck from joining with Fremont’s army, then approaching Staunton, Virginia.(i)  After a two week lull in the fighting, Jackson pushed north through the Luray Valley, where he would bottle up forces under US Major General Nathanial Banks.  In successive battles at Front Royal (May 23) and Winchester (May 25), Jackson’s army would soundly trounce Banks’ forces, sending them pell mell across the Potomac River.  With these victories, the lower Shenandoah Valley was free of Federal occupiers.  Jackson would leave the famed “Stonewall Brigade” to keep Banks north of the Potomac, while he dealt with Fremont.

Jackson, pushing south on the Valley Pike, was able to evade the Federal forces near Strasburg, Virginia.  With Fremont’s army pushing after him, and US Brigadier General James Shields screening his escape routes, on the east side of the valley, Jackson pushed his army towards Cross Keys and Port Republic, Virginia.  There, in early June, Jackson set up defensive positions to meet the rapidly pursuing Federal army.  Attempting to keep Shields’ forces from combining with Fremont, Jackson’s division, under his command, established a position on the east bank of the South Fork River, at Port Republic.  Jackson had CSA Major General Richard S. Ewell’s division arrayed south of Mill Creek, near Cross Keys, to defend against Fremont’s approach.  Jackson’s two wings were separated by a total of six miles.  During the late afternoon, of June 7, Fremont’s army came into contact with advanced pickets of Ewell’s division, near the Cross Keys Tavern.(ii)  With light quickly fading, the armies were in position for an engagement the next day.

The following narrative, on the Battle of Cross Keys, is from my website, BattlefieldPortraits.com.

Battle of Cross Keys
Click here for a map of the Cross Keys Battlefield courtesy of the Civil War Preservations Trust.

Location: Unincorporated Rockingham County, VA (near Harrisonburg)
Dates: June 8, 1862
Union Commander: John Fremont, Major General
Confederate Commander:  Richard S. Ewell, Major General                                         

Battle Summary:

The Battle of Cross Keys would open, early on June 8, as John Fremont pushed his army south on the Port Republic Road.  Commanding his brigades were: US Brigadier Generals Julius Stahel, Henry Bohlen, Robert Milroy, Robert Schenck and US Colonels John Koltes and Gustave Cluseret.  What Fremont initially saw had to bother him.  Arrayed south of the shallow Mill Creek were three well commanded, and experienced, Confederate brigades commanded by: CSA Brigadier Generals Arnold Elzey, George H. Steuart and Isaac R. Trimble.  Additionally, Ewell had placed four batteries of artillery along the commanding heights.

After reconnoitering the field, Fremont quickly determined that Ewell’s right flank was the most vulnerable.  By attacking this position, Fremont could block Ewell’s escape route, to Port Republic, and join forces with James Shields to finish of Thomas Jackson’s Army of the Valley.  Based on this tactical plan Fremont sent Julius Stahel’s brigade, supported by Henry Bohlen’s brigade, to attempt a turning move on Ewell’s right flank, commanded by CSA Brigadier General Isaac Trimble.

With Stahel’s brigade quickly approaching, Trimble unleashed a violent volley into the Federals, from less than 50 yards.  This infantry volley sent Stahel’s brigade, in confusion, towards the rear.  Trimble quickly dressed ranks and followed in pursuit, leaving two regiments in view, to keep the Yankee soldiers’ attention.  Personally leading the 15th Alabama through a nearby ravine, Trimble placed them opposite Stahel’s left flank.  At Trimble’s command, the Alabamians fell into Stahel’s flank, pushing them into Bohlen’s arriving brigade.  Having been reinforced by two of Arnold Elzey’s regiments, Trimble continued to push Stahel, and Bohlen, all the way back to the Keezletown Road.

While the Confederates were attacking John Fremont’s left flank, the Federals started an attack of their own.  The brigades of Cluseret, and Milroy, made feeble attempts to attack Ewell’s center, while Robert Schenck’s brigade swung to the far right, in an effort to turn the Confederate left flank.  Having prepared for this contingency, Thomas Jackson had sent Ewell additional troops commanded by CSA Brigadier General Richard Taylor and CSA Colonel John Patton.  Ewell dispatched these to his left flank, to support George Steuart’s brigade.  These troops would not be needed as John Fremont, reeling from the drubbing on his left, called off the attack against the Confederate left flank.  Fremont would pull back to a defensive line, along Keezletown Road.

Campaign: Stonewall Jackson’s Valley Campaign

Outcome: Confederate Victory

Troop Strengths
Union: 10,500
Confederate: 5,000

Casualties (estimated):
Union: 684 (killed, wounded or missing/captured)
Confederate: 288 (killed, wounded or missing/captured)

Battle Aftermath:
After declining Isaac Trimble’s request to attack the new Federal position, Richard Ewell would remove his division, under cover of darkness, to reunite with the rest of Thomas Jackson’s Army of the Valley.  On June 9, Jackson would defeat a portion of James Shields’ army at Port Republic, clearing any danger from a combined Union force from the Shenandoah Valley.  Stonewall Jackson would then move quickly to support CS General Joseph Johnston’s Army, then facing George B. McClellan’s Army of the Potomac, on the Peninsula.

(i) The Valley Campaign, at Wikipedia, was used to research this article.
(ii) Battle of Cross Keys, at Wikipedia, was used to research this article.