Today at Brandy Station

Why I Left the Brandy Station Foundation Board of Directors

2011-11-15T17:27:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: The past six months

What follows are the events which surrounded my departure from the Board of Directors of the Brandys Station Foundation. The final straw which led to my resignation was Tony Troilo's attempt to dam Flat Run and the BSF actions.

The United States Corps of Engineers has drafted a Memorandum of Agreement concerning the course of action to be taken regarding a pond that has been constructed by Tony Troilo by his damming Flat Run. Flat Run crosses in front of the base of Fleetwood Hill on the Brandy Station Battlefield, I will not post the MOA on this blog, I suspect it will be posted on a number of websites as well as being reported in local newspapers.
Simply stated, the MOA requires Mr. Troilo to repair all the damage he has done to Flat Run, restoring it to its original condition; and within 60 days of completion of this project, convey 3.1 acres of land (along Flat Run) to the Brandy Station Foundation. The MOA has a number of stipulations and contingencies. It was signed by: The Corps of Engineers, Tony Troilo, Virginia State Histories Preservation, The Brandy Station Foundation, and Clark B. Hall.
The good news is the BSF will receive an additional 3.1 acres of core battlefield. But, what did they do to earn it? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.
I love the Brandy Station Battlefield. Not because of the fight on June 9, 1863, but more for everything else that happened in and around this area. There are many fine scholars who have written and lectured on the largest cavalry battle in North America, but I choose different areas of study. I have a great understanding of the June 9 fight, the land, personalities and the tactical and strategic results of that momentous fight. But for me, the fight at Rappahannock Station and Kelly’s Ford on November 7, 1863 is ‘my battle.’ I am also fascinated with the Army of the Potomac’s Winter Encampment of 1863-64. There are 120,000 stories waiting to be told, and it is my goal to tell them.
So I care about the land, the structures and the history. Those who have heard me talk on these subjects comment on the passion in which I speak. If I could retire from my current job today and devote my energies to this activity, I would.
I joined the BSF as a volunteer at the Graffiti House in the spring of 2004, learning the history of the house and the stories these charcoal writings on a wall have to tell. I expanded my love quickly to the events that swirled around the house between 1861 and 1865. After a year, I was asked and accepted a position on the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
While serving on that body, I became a vocal advocate for preservation of the land, saving the house and its graffiti, and educational outreach to anyone who would pause to hear what stories the land and house gave forth. I loved doing this then, as I love it today.
The heart break and extreme disappointment I went through regarding Tony Troilo’s pond and the Board of Directors actions was seen by family and many of my friends.
Just how did we get to this point in time?
I have never commented on this blog about the damming of Flat Run by Tony Troilo and my resulting resignation from the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation. Now that the Memorandum of Agreement between the key parties involved has been signed and the Brandy Station Foundation has made an announcement of the results, I feel it is time for me to comment. I was a member of the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation from the spring of 2005 until May 19, 2011.
The BSF has made a statement of its version of the Troilo pond events as they unfolded and the result. I will not comment on their statement, but leave it for you and others to read and interpret. The Foundation’s statement may be found on the Brandy Station Foundation webpage: http://www.brandystationfoundation.com/
In May of this year, Tony Troilo, in violation of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and United Stated Corps of Engineer regulations, destroyed approximately 666 linear feet of Flat Run, a perennial stream, in order to construct a pond on his property. His action resulted in the deposition of excavated fill soil along his property and the property of the Brandy Station Foundation, which is also held in historic preservation and open space easement by the Virginia Board of Historic Resources.

The action was identified and reported on by Bud Hall, immediate past president of the Brandy Station Foundation. He was made aware of the situation and surveyed the activity and as an individual passionate about the protection of the Brandy Station battlefield. Bud contacted the Corps of Engineers to report the incident. Almost immediately the Corps of Engineers delivered a ‘cease and desist’ order to Mr. Troilo. It was, admittedly unfortunate timing, as the notice was delivered the week of the death of Tony’s father.
In an email he sent to the BSF Board of Directors, on May 12, 2011, Joe McKinney, President of the Brandy Station Foundation, laid out his thoughts to the Board on the pond. I have highlighted Joe’s ‘hope’ regarding this issue:
“Troilo Pond. This is the wild card issue. As of this afternoon, the dam is virtually complete and

the pond is filling. There may be some spillway work still to do. There are a lot of variables: county permit requirements; CoE inspection brought on by Bud; continuing ire from readers of [Eric] Wittenberg’s blog [http://civilwarcavalry.com/]; possible backlash among local citizens. I will keep you posted on all information I receive. I hope that we do not have to spend too much time on this. If anyone on the board believes that we should intervene immediately, notify all the board members via email. Be specific: establish goals; lay out courses of action to achieve those goals; identify specific tasks resident in each course of actions; assess potential gains and risks; estimate financial costs, if any.”
Joe’s states of his leadership vision on this issue. He directs the board: “If anyone on the board believes that we should intervene immediately, notify all the board members via email. Be specific: establish goals; lay out courses of action to achieve those goals; identify specific tasks resident in each course of actions; assess potential gains and risks; estimate financial costs, if any.”
Joe leadership, as can be seen above, is to pass the issue on to the board and not to assume, as the elected President of the BSF, his role as the Foundation’s leader. Joe McKinney is stating to the board that he wants nothing to do with the pond, and if any board member wants to intervene, they must: develop the plan goals – course of action – identify specific tasks – assess gain and risk – and the cost. Then, we’ll come up with a plan and it will be duly considered. “Duly considered.” In other words, do it yourself, I do not want to get involved
The same evening, in an email to the BSF Board, I responded to Joe’s call for inaction:

“A official position from the Foundation I feel is required. I understand your reluctance to become involved in an issue on private property. … Our stated goal is preservation of the battlefield. If Tony is indeed in violation of laws, then as advocates to the battlefield, the Brandy Station Foundation needs to be involved. Sitting on the sidelines on an issue literally in our faces will I fears harm the Foundation. As for a detailed course of action, I don't have one. Do you have a specific goal? Have you, as President, begun to lay out courses of action? This is why we, as a board, need to get together and formulate such a plan. Individually, we will be unsuccessful, but as a group, a single unit, we have a better chance of addressing this problem… I look to you as the President of the Foundation to take the lead on this issue.”
Joe, called to task, responded two hours later:
“Mike raises some good points to think about. However, Mike, you have more information than me if you [have] accurate information that Tony did not get proper permits to enlarge his pond. Second, I don’t know if any determination has been made that he is in violation of any environmental laws. Those are two pretty key questions that must be nailed down before we proceed (in my view).
Regarding goals. A goal might be that Tony destroys his dam and drains the pond. A feasible course of action would be that we progressively go to county planning, then to the BOS, then to court. We have to pay legal costs, risk losing good will in the local community, but might gain the praise of Eric Wittenberg and those who read his blog. If we win in court, we might have to pay to restore the status quo ante. Not a course of action to be taken lightly.
Another goal might be to put out a position statement (refer to the bylaws) that expresses our preference for leaving the land the way it was, but doesn’t take substantive action to correct what one person sees as an “unmitigated disaster.” This is easy, we write the statement and post it cost-free on our website. It will probably will not satisfy our critics, but probably will not make us any enemies.
A third course of action might be that we simply lay out the facts: what the law and regulations state regarding property and ponds; where the property lines lie; what options were available to us; what we did/did not do; and, why.
…it is important that we all think seriously about this. In my view, before we go any further, I think it best that we determine if Tony Troilo violated any land use regulations, environment law, or whatnot.
A final point. It is easy to say that our goal is to protect the battlefield and that we should all rally to that battle cry. However, as board members it is our responsibility to act for the good of the BSF. Should we pick the wrong fight, or pick the right fight but mismanage it, we put our organization at risk. We might all pat ourselves on the back for taking a stand, but if in the process we become insolvent we lose everything we have fought for over the years. It is a serious responsibility.”

Joe, in the above email, has told me:

1. I have more information on the issue than he does. (I had more information because I conducted some research and asked questions)

2. He did not know if a determination had been made regarding a violation. (which told me that he hadn’t bothered to do any research in this matter)

3. Joe, in his ‘goals’ paragraph, sets a course that the Foundation ‘progressively go[es] to county planning, then to the BOS, then to court. We have to pay legal costs, risk losing good will in the local community,’ and, ‘If we win in court, we might have to pay to restore the status quo ante.’ (I would have to put the Foundation ‘at risk’ as well as stick my neck out a little)

4. He continues: ‘put out a position statement that expresses our preference for leaving the land the way it was, but doesn’t take substantive action to correct what one person sees as an “unmitigated disaster.” This is easy, we write the statement and post it cost-free on our website. It probably will not satisfy our critics, but probably will not make us any enemies. (This was the eventual course, doing his best not to make waves with Tony Troilo. Please note that Joe chose, in his words, the easy way)

5. Lay out the facts. As the facts were laid out and became known, Joe continued to press for a position statement. He was essentially, burying the BSF’s head into the sand and pretending there wasn’t an issue

6. Determine if indeed Tony Troilo violated any land use regulations, environmental law, & whatnot. (When it was determined the Tony violated regulations, law and whatnot, Joe McKinney and the BSF continued to ignore the situation)

7. Act responsibly as Board Members to act for the good of the BSF. (By Joe’s inaction, the Board has acted in bad faith. The decision to pick a wrong or right fight –it is interesting that he chose wrong first – is a decision that was required to be made. The President made no decision)

8. Make the wrong decision and become insolvent. (I guess he was afraid that if the Board took on Tony Troilo that Tony would sue the Foundation, we would lose and be no more. Another example of Joe leading)

9. Joe was correct in that it is a ‘serious responsibility.’ A responsibility that he chose not to take.
The same day, in an email to a former BSF board member, who asked Joe what was going on along Flat Run, Joe responded thus:
“Last week Mr. Troilo began work to expand his pond. There are a few dozers at work moving earth at present. The property that the pond is on is adjacent to our property on Wyndham’s approach to Fleetwood. I’ve checked the boundary between Mr. Troilo’s property and ours on the county’s GIS, and am satisfied that he has not encroached on our land.”

Joe, never asked or surveyed (until questioned) what Tony was doing on Fleetwood Hill, even though he states he saw “a few dozers at work moving earth.” Joe was also incorrect. Tony Troilo had indeed encroached on BSF and VDHR property.
To my knowledge, neither a legal consult nor conversation with the Corps of Engineers took place with the BSF during May, 2011.

The following day, in an email to the board, which included the initial draft of the eventual policy letter, Joe stated, “In his email last night, Mike opined that I have not of yet provided sufficient leadership regarding the pond issue. In fairness, he is correct.” I give Joe points for admitting that up to this point, he had reneged on his position as Foundation President. His decided to craft and publish a “Brandy Station Position on Landowner Improvements and Agricultural Activities.”
The draft made the rounds of the Board for a number of days, being crafted, edited and word-smithed. Many of the Board members chose not to respond, saying it was OK with them. In other words, abstain from the issue. I give credit to the members of the Board who actually read the letter and commented, whatever their opinion was. They at least stepped up to the issue and formed an opinion. The end-result, in my opinion, was incorrect, and detrimental to the Foundation. The Foundations position is posted on the BSF website, under the tab “About Us,” then “Position Papers.”
Seeing that the position paper supported the cause of the landowner, to the detriment of the BSF, and not the preservation of the land the BSF is chartered to protect, as well as be and advocate for and steward of, I resigned the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation. Those Civil War Roundtables and other organizations that have heard me speak of Lake Troilo know well my frustration, disappointment and sadness in this action. I was and have been very disappointed with Joe McKinney’s leadership as President of the Brandy Station Foundation, then as I am now.

If it had not been for the actions of Bud Hall, and others, Flat Run would be dammed, the pond filled and the land forever altered. If it had not been for Bud Hall the BSF would not be crowing about their three additional acres. Did the announcement give credit to Bud or anyone who opposed Tony Troilo's actions? Of course not, and they never will under the current Foundation leadership.

Where does the Brandy Station Foundation go from here? I do not know, time will tell. But let us hope that someone is watching over the land, for the Brandy Station Foundation is not.

New York City Civil War Roundtable Visits Culpeper

2011-11-13T20:12:00.000-05:00

This Weekend in Culpeper: November 11-13, 2011

Over the past three days -- I had the honor -- along with Bud Hall, to facilitate a tour of historic sites in Culpeper, Fauquier and Loudoun Counties to members of the New York City Civil War Roundtable. The group was led by Patrick Falci and his wife Joan. Pat is a near dead-ringer for General A. P. Hill, and has portrayed him in the movie Gettysburg and gives talks and lectures, telling Powell's story.

The group visited Cedar Mountain, the fords of the Rapidan, several historic houses and churches in all three counties, the Brandy Station battlefield, the Rappahannock Station battlefield, the battlefields of Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville, and many locations within Mosby's Confederacy and his sites from his post war career.

The group is very knowledgeable about the Civil War in this region, and thoroughly enjoyed having 'boots on the ground,' which enabled them to understand the terrain and context in which these actions were fought. Additionally, the Roundtable made donations to the Civil War Trust and the Mosby Heritage Association.

It is always my pleasure to take individuals and groups to historic locations, and give them my interpretation of events past and present, which has impacted the land and our history. I look forward to the next opportunity.

Another House Lost to History

2011-11-06T16:22:00.000-05:00

Yesterday at Culpeper: November 5, 2011

While driving on the eastern edge of Culpeper yesterday afternoon, I saw the home Colonel Charles S. Wainwright wintered in is gone. The house was in serious disrepair for a number of years. I had not been by the house in months, so I do when or how it finally came down.

Wainwright, who wrote one of the best journals of the war, had his quarters in a room on the first floor of the house in 1864.

The photo is from May, 2008.

2011-10-16T18:16:00.000-04:00

Today from Rappahannock Bridge: October 16, 1863

A dispatch posted October 14 has made the Richmond Daily Dispatch. The story provides and update on the advances of Lee's army into Fauquier County. The O&A bridge was burned by the retreating Federals on October 13 (as was the depot in Bealeton). The firing that was heard was probably the early morning fight at Auburn, Va (known as the Battle of Coffee Hill). The dead horses are from the fighting on the 13th and John Minor Botts was being John Minor Botts, again.

From Northern Virginia.
Rappahannock Bridge, Oct.14.

--The bridge at this point was badly burned by the enemy in his retreat, and the ruins are still smoking.

Alfred Waud's drawing of the buring of the Rappahannock Station Bridge on October 13, 1863

Rapid firing was heard during to-day in the direction of Warrenton. There was a cavalry skirmish at Catlett's station on Tuesday. The enemy are still fleeing.

Our cavalry surrounded a body of Yankee dismounted cavalry, acting as sharpshooters, at Jeffersontown, on Tuesday, and, after wounding several of them, took over three hundred prisoners.--More prisoners are coming in.

The country from Culpeper C. H. to this point is completely desolated. Negroes, stock, and everything, have been carried off. Most of the houses left untenanted were pulled to pieces, and Yankee huts built of their material.

The battle-field about Brandy Station is literally covered with dead horses.

John Minor Botts has again been paroled, to appear in Richmond.

Everybody is Crossing a River

2011-10-12T20:20:00.001-04:00

Today along the Hazel and Rappahannock Rivers: October 12, 1863

The Bristoe Campaign is now underway. After attempts by Federal cavalry to stop their Confederate counterparts along the Rapidan Fords, Stevensburg and Fleetwood Hill the day before, the Army of the Potomac is in retreat, crossing the Rappahannock River into Fauquier County.

The Army of Northern Virginia is attempting to turn the right flank of the Union forces and are trying to slip around them in Western Fauquier. But first, before they can get into Fauquier, they must pass over the Hazel.

A sampling of units crossing the rivers, one side trying to get away, the other trying to get around.

4th Michigan: went down to the River and formed line in the Rifle Pits. Stayed about 3 hours and Started and Crossed the River on Bridge went up to the front and formed line on the Hill.

91st Pennsylvania: Then marched to Rappahannock Station, crossed the river, and moved up to Beverly Ford.

2nd Pennsylvania Reserves: Early in the morning we crossed the river at Beverly’s Ford, and formed in line of battle and lay there until near sundown.

40th Virginia: sloshed’ through several abandoned Yankee camps near Culpeper. The camp that night was near the Hazel River.

50th Virginia: we crossed the Hazel River which was a little pill but we had to swallow. It was so deep that we had to strip off our cloths to wade it and [it was] almost freezing cold as I though

Chew's Battery: By dusk the affair had ended when the Federals withdrew toward the Rappahannock. Leaving that position, the battery retired toward the Hazel River and went into camp late at Rixeyville.

From: the diary of Henry Seage, 4th Michigan http://home.midsouth.rr.com/devinney/diary2.html;

http://freepages.military.rootsweb.com/~pa91/cc3a.html (91st PA); Our Campaigns: The Second Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteers, by Evan M. Woodard; 50^th Virginia Infantry, John D. Chapla; Chew’s Ashby, Shoemaker’s Lynchburg and the Newtown Artillery, Robert H. Moore, II.

A disservice at Brandy Station

2011-10-09T15:59:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: October 9, 2011

Thankfully, yesterday's Culpeper Airfest caused minimal damage to the St. James Plateau property.

I became aware of the potential for parking on the hallowed land some months ago and was in correspondence with a number of individuals representing the parties involved. I had felt that the Civil War Trust & and Virginia Department of Historical Resources would deny the request to park on this land.

They did not.

From the CWT web site:
Our Mission: The Civil War Trust is America's largest non-profit organization (501-C3) devoted to the preservation of our nation's endangered Civil War battlefields.
From the VDHR website:
Our mission is to foster, encourage, and support the stewardship of

Virginia's significant historic architectural, archaeological, and cultural resources.

I ask the VDHR if they conducted an archaeological study of the ground to be parked on to a similar detailed level as they did on the Brandy Station battlefield in 2008 prior to a cavalry reenactment? The answer is of course no.

How can you preserve a battlefield by allowing vehicles to park on it?

If these organizations, whose charter is to protect our history, protect Brandy Station at this level, what are they doing elsewhere? I have to hope it is with a greater diligence. Brandy Station, in my opinion, has been disserviced by the CWT and VDHR.

Culpeper Airfest 2011

2011-10-08T17:58:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: October 8, 2011

More accurately, the St. James Plateau.

The Civil War Trust, stewards of the majority of the preserved and saved Brandy Station Battlefield, allowed Culpeper County to use portions of the St. James Church plateau -- scene of some the most intense and brutal cavalry fighting during the Civil War. This is where the 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry and the 6th United States Cavalry charged into the mouths of nearly the entire Stuart Horse Artillery -- to use this portion of the battlefield to park cars. The Brandy Station Foundation did the same on their property, continuing a practice of allowing parking to support community events.

Just in case you cannot read the sign, it says:

CIVIL WAR PRESERVATION TRUST

HELP US PROTECT THIS BATTLEFIELD

No Relic Hunting - No Fires

No Camping - No Trapping

Vehicles Prohibited

Game Hunting By Written Permission Only

Where's the beef?

2011-09-28T18:57:00.000-04:00

Today at Rappahannock Station: September 28, 1863

Portion of a letter from Colonel H.F. Clark, [regular army] ADC and CS (Commissary Department) to Lt. Col G.H. Woods Chief C.S. 3rd Corps:

“Do you wish anymore cattle, if you please state the number and send here for them tomorrow morning. The main head is now near Rappahannock Station but some are coming up for the 2d Corps and yours can come with them...”

Isn't it nice to know that beef on the hoof is available to the army. The Second Corps cattle was in route to the soldiers. For the men of the Third Corps, the prospect of fresh meat was in the hand of Lt. Colonel Woods. All he had to do was ask....

During the Winter Encampment - still a few months away - today's in Elkwood, Virginia, was known as Ingall's Station. At Ingall's Station was the stockyard for the Army of the Potomac.

"...telling me about your doll..."

2011-09-24T20:13:00.000-04:00

Today in Culpeper: September 24, 1863

We sometimes forget that the hundreds of thousands of soldiers who fought in the Civil War were family men. Husbands and fathers. They gave up thier lives at home to possibly give up their mortal life on some field outside some village or along a river or creek.

What follows is a portion of a letter from Colonel Patrick R. Guiney, 9th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, to his three-year old daughter, Loolie. I can see Patrick's wife Jennie reading the letter to her, writing not about war and trials and tribulations in camp, but dolls and horses.

The letter can be found in: Commanding Boston's Irish Ninth: the Civil War Letters of Colonel Patrick R. Guiney, 9th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, edited by Christian G. Samito.

Culpepper, Va
Sept. 24, 1863

My Dear Pet:

Your nice little letter telling me all about your doll came here to day. Poor little doll couldn't grow some + I don't wonder she fainted + got all dirty in the effort. I am glad you didn't whip her Loolie, because she couldn't help it. How do like the pictures of your dada's? Tell your mother to get you a charm for your little pencil and hang it around your neck. You must tell me how you like the white horse "Harry." The little rogue is asleep in one but his eyes are wide open in the other picture.

"A more precious set of villains I never saw..."

2011-09-23T19:24:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: September 23, 1863

In 1862 and 1862, the majority of volunteers who enlisted in the Federal armies did so out of patriotism, civic pride and sense of duty. By 1863, those men were gone. But still; cities, counties and states still had an obligation to keep the ranks filled. Not wanting a draft, local and state governments turned to bounty's to entice men to join.

Unfortunately, many joined to collect the bounty and deserted at the first chance, usually before they departed their home station. If not then, while in transit from the north to Washington. If they still had no opportunity, then on the train from Alexandria to the army in Culpeper and Fauquier Counties.

Some actually arrived in camps. They were not wanted nor liked by those who had been through the hard 1863 campaigns of Chancellorsville and Gettysburg.

In a diary entry, Private John Haley describes his first meeting of a new set of recruits to the 17th Maine. The diary can be found in: The Rebel Yell and Yankee Hurrah: the Civil War Journal of a Maine Volunteer: Private John W. Haley, 17th Maine Regiment.

September 17: When we returned to Camp, we found a bunch of recruits had arrived and made themselves a very familiar with our tents and rations. They eyed us keenly, spoiling for a fight when we found out the extent of their depredations, we were more than willing to oblige. A more precious set of villains I never saw, reckless bounty jumpers and cut throats scoured up between New York and the British provinces. Doubtless they had enlisted several times and jumped a bounty on each occasion. They have found the right Regiment, if they wanted trouble! However, there was no help for it, and we must make the best of a bad matter.

"Send me 2 pound of plug tobacco"

2011-09-21T19:51:00.000-04:00

Today in Culpeper Court House: September 21, 1863

George Camp recounts in a letter to an unknown recipient back home of his experiences in the past week. Spelling has not been corrected.

A portion of a letter from Private George Camp, Co. E. 10th Vermont Infantry

''Camp at Culpepper Court House, Virginia,...We crost the rappahannock the 14th at freeman’s ford in the morning and marcht all day till about 4 o’clock in the afternoon, then we crost hazel river and marched till 10 o’clock at nite. It was wet and rainy. Then we poor devils had to lay down al wet and tiered out, nothing but hardtack and muddy water for supper. Dident i think of home and the old cuberd about them times! The next day, we marcht to Culpepper Court House and are here now, and i ges we shal stay here some time. The Rebs pickets are on Seeder Mountain. We can see their signal lits every nite. The damned cusses run so we can’t git a chance to fight them...i ges we shall git home this winter. The Rebs will cry ‘Union’ before long. i can’t think of much more this time. The next time you write, send me...2 pounds of plug tobacco, 1 pound of smoking tobacco, 4 pounds of cheese, 4 or 5 pounds of maple sugar, 2 pounds of dried apples...a jackknife...Git a quart pail and send that full of butter, and after the butter is used out, it will do to make coffee in. Tell Aunt Orra i have waited so long for that shirt i think she ought to send me a sweet cake...''

Camp's march from the Rappahannock to Culpeper Court-House is typical of the march pursuing Lee's Army of Northern Virginia in September 1863.

But, I find it interesting when I read letters from soldiers, that they are constantly asking for food to be sent from home. It is interesting to me because, nothing has changed.

Today, we send our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines serving overseas 'care packages' filled with culinary reminders of home. I have done it, sending packages to friends and co-workers in Iraq and Afghanistan. Every year, during the holidays or a special event such as the Super Bowl, some pizza company, or restaurant, sends 2000 pizzas to Afghanistan. Having served 20 years in the Air Force, I am very happy that nothing has changed in the way we, as citizens of this great country, provide for our service members.

Visiting past triumphs

2011-09-08T18:24:00.000-04:00

Today at Cedar Mountain: September 8, 1863

From the diary of Jed Hotchkiss.

"I started back at an early hour, going by Cedar Run to examine the route to the battle field and the location of Hudson’s Mill, where General Trimble was stopped by a mill pond. Found no obstacle there that he could have not overcome...General Early had a party at the Cedar Run battlefield fixing up the graves of our fallen. The hogs had been rooting there."

Hotchkiss was recreating the advance of the Confederates on that August, 1862 day. He comments that he cannot find the obstacle the Issac Trimble faced (the mill pond). Perhaps Trimble wrote his report on August 14, before he was seriously wounded at Groveton, and I could find no mention of a mill pond, so I am unsure of what Hotchkiss is referring to.

He mentions that Jubal Early had a detail of men fixing the graves of the Confederate fallen from the fight. It is interesting that in the year since the fight, in an area under control by the Southern army, the Confederates did not attempt to disinter the dead and ship them home for burial.

Residue from the 'great Cavalry fight'

2011-09-07T20:33:00.000-04:00

Today at Beverly Ford: September 7, 1863

Below is a portion of a letter from Private William Lamson to his sister. Lamson is in the 20th Maine and they are camped on the Fauquier County side of Beverly Ford.

"Dear Sister

...We are camped on part of the ground where the great Cavalry fight was, about the 10th of June. There are a good many unexploded shells laying around and many pieces that the rebs fired over at our men. There is a large white house on this side of the river and a negro house about ½ mile from it. And on the other side of about as far apart are 2 nice large houses. ...With a spy glass we can see that the brick house is ornamented with 2 or 3 shell holes which it received in the fight. They don’t add much to the beauty outside nor in, for one burst in a room smashing things up badly. Some of the boys went over when we first came here and said it was finished and furnished in a very costly style but I guess it don’t look quite as well “as it did.” ...

Once in a while we see 3 or 4 “Gray backs” riding around on the other side of the river taking a look at our camp. Some time ago 4 came almost down to the river, stopped a few minutes, waved their sabers over their heads, then turned and trotted off. ...Give love to all the family and accept a large share for yourself. Good bye."
From your aff
Brother, Will.

Lamson's letters can be found in:
Maine to the Wilderness: The Civil War Letters of Private William Lamson, 20th Maine Infantry. Edited by Roderick M. Engert

The Report of Wesley Norris

2011-09-06T18:46:00.000-04:00

Today at Germantown, Headquarters, Army of the Potomac: September 6, 1863

Today's entry is from Series I, Vol. 29, Part II, pp 158-159, of the War of the Rebellion, Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, affectionately known as the OR. It is a message from General George Meade to General-in-Chief, Henry Halleck.

"Wesley Norris, a free negro, came into our lines from Culpeper yesterday about sunset. He states he was formerly the property of Geroge Washington Custis, who died at Arlington, Va., about six years ago. By his will he as made free, after having served five years for General Lee. He has been hired out of late to Alexander Dudley, superintendent of the York River Railroad, who discharged him a few days before he left Richmond.

"He states that he left Richmond on Friday last, with a pass form General Custis Lee, to go through our lines via Culpeper. He took the Central cars via Gordonsville, and arrived in Gordonsville about noon and staid there two hours. Saw no troops on the move or march. Saw some men in camp, to the right of Gordonsville, perhaps 4,000 or 5,000, just out of the town; looked as if they had been in the camp some little time. The Charlottesville cars run into the same depot.

"He states that if any troops had been moving from or toward Charlottesville he would have known it. He talked with several persons at Gordonsville. They said nothing about the movement of troops anywhere. He saw more troops in camp at Orange Court-House. All in camp; none on the march. He had to get off there to get a pass, when the cars left him and he walked to Culpeper. Got to Culpeper on Saturday. Yesterday morning saw troops in several places between Orange Court-House and Culpeper. Went all the way on the railroad, showing his pass only once. Saw no troops at Culpeper, but some wagons and a few ___. Went to the provost-marshal, who examined his passes and made some objections to his coming through. Was put on a horse in the afternoon, blindfolded, and sent through our pickets at Rappahannock Station." GEO G. MEADE, Major-General

First off, wouldn't it have been amazing to converse with Wesley, and hear some of stories of pre-war Arlington House. And then listen to him talk about Robert E. Lee.

But for the Union, most likely first with the Bureau of Military Intelligence, what a windfall of information:

--able to travel from Richmond by rail
--the lines from Richmond to Gordonsville & Charlottesville and Gordonsvilles are running
--no movement of troops
--four to five thousand in Orange
--troops in several places (probably identified) between Orange and Culpeper
--no troops on the march (either to Tennessee (yet) or heading towards the Rappahannock)
--some wagons and a few___. Whatever the few was, it wasn't many
--he was blindfolded from Culpeper forward. At least someone had a sense of operational security

This is just a brief summary of Norris's report. I wonder how many historians and researchers overlook correspondence such as this, because it isn't part of a bigger, better, more important campaign or event. How much more has yet to be discovered.

Gouverneur K. Warren

2011-09-05T11:50:00.000-04:00

Today at Germantown: September 5, 1863

Lt. Colonel Theodore Lyman, a recent arrival at the headquarters of George Gordan Meade, spent his first Sunday with the Army of the Potomac. Assigned as Meades aide-de-camp. After attending church with the 93rd New York infantry ("they sung well, but not so well as New Englanders would have done") he sat down to lunch. Several generals paid visits and at least one joined Meade for lunch, Second Corps commander Gouverneur Kimble Warren, formally the Chief Topographical Engineer of the Army of the Potomac.

Lyman had a favorable opinion of him.

"He strikes me as the most original officer that have seen; a small dried up, pointed nose, though still a young man, with a restless black eye, like a weasels's, and a body & mind that seem full of watch-maker's springs. He has a broad New York accent and is by no means particular in grammar. His conversation shows that his mind is extremely ready and sure, on all points."

Warren would lead the Second Corps until the return of Winfield Scott Hancock. He would then replace George Sykes as commander of the Fifth Corps during the Overland and Petersburg campaigns, losing favor and his command in the waning days of the war.

Pickets guarding Pickets

2011-09-04T19:49:00.001-04:00

Today along the Rappahannock: September 4, 1863

The follow piece is taken from a letter written by Major Henry Abbott, of the 20th Massachusetts to his father. Abbott writes from Mitchell's Station, which is south of the town of Culpeper. However the Army of the Potomac was north of the Rappahannock in Fauquier County on September 4. His previous letters were from Morrisville. The Army of the Potomac would not enter Culpeper County until September 13, 1863. While the location is unclear, the information is not.

The quote is taken from, "Fallen Leaves: The Civil War Letters of Major Henry Livermore Abbott.

"The drafting business is, every where through out the army without an exception, as far as I can learn, acknowledged to be a most lamentable failure. Though all the men obtained are in reality $200 volunteers, the circumstances attending have left them without any of the pride, self-respect & honor which even the worst of the volunteers felt at being elevated by the press and the nation...into an heroic volunteer for the defence of his fatherland."

He continues, "Desertion in the field & worst of all, desertion to the enemy, was almost unknown before this jumble of French, Italians, Germans, & in some cases, Chinese came to us. Now orders are never to put a conscript on outpost without an old man in his company. Very bad to have your army guarding the other half..."

Abbott's comments parrot many of the veterans of the army. Soldiers are writing home to families, their local papers and government officials at all levels of the challenges be faced in the field. Executions are common, usually on Friday afternoons, but these events are having little impact, as desertion continues.

Random Death

2011-05-02T19:48:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: May 2, 1864

The Army of the Potomac was consolidating it's forces in and around Brandy Station and Culpeper. The Fifth Corps, which had been guarding the Orange & Alexandria Railroad between the Rappahannock River and the Bull Run were marching along the railroad into Culpeper. Some regiments were fortunate enough to grab a ride on a train that was heading south. Such was the case of the 91st Pennsylvania.

Camped in the vicinity of Warrenton Junction (today's Calverton), the regiment moved down the line to Brandy Station. All did not complete the journey.

Benjamin Redheffer of company A, was in of one of the cars, and while the train was crossing the Rappahannock, one of his feet, which was dangling over the side of the car, hit part of the truss that crossed the bridge. He was quickly pulled out of the car and killed. Gone in an instant.

It is not like combat, when instant, random death can be explained. But literally one second sitting in a boxcar, and the next...

Over 1100 Union soldiers died in and around the Winter Encampments, Private Redheffer is just one of the more tragic, preventable deaths that occurred.

No surprise - VDOT Pushes to Widen Route 3 through Stevensburg

2011-05-01T12:07:00.000-04:00

Today at Stevensburg: May 1, 2011
In Today's Culpeper Star Exponent

It is no surprise that VDOT has chosen to widen Route 3 along its existing path. This is the 'option' the agency has pushed from the beginning. The other option, known as Plan B, was in reality their initial intention in the 1990's, but were unable to execute that plan due to money allocations and the Federal Highway Transportation Act of 1966, which stipulates that "the Federal Highway Administration and other agencies cannot approve the use of land from publicly owned parks, recreational areas, wildlife areas or public and private historical sites unless there are no feasible and prudent alternatives to its use." In other words - Plan B was never a plan to begin with.

An alternative proposed by grass root Stevensburg residents, historical preservationists and other safety minded individuals was to leave the road two lanes through Stevensburg and the Hansbourgh Ridge area, and most importantly, reduce the speed limit -and enforce that speed. A similar option has been very successful on Route 50 in Middleburg.

The current two lane are not the cause of accidents along this stretch of Route 3; it is excessive speed, inattention and animal strikes. Adding two more lanes will not mitigate these problems.

Portions of the CSE article are below:

Route 3: VDOT recommends Plan A
By Nate Delesline
Citing a negative impact to historically sensitive areas that would be difficult to mitigate, the Virginia Department of Transportation last week recommended the Commonwealth Transportation Board approve a plan that would widen Route 3 along its existing track through Stevensburg.

An alternative, Plan B, would reroute the highway to the north of the village. The bypass option would cost an estimated $35 million; the first option would cost nearly $39 million.

Explanation and background
In a four-page memo, VDOT Culpeper District planning engineer Brent Sprinkel says because the project will utilize federal money, it is subject to the Department of Transportation Act of 1966. The act includes a provision which stipulates that the Federal Highway Administration and other agencies cannot approve the use of land from publicly owned parks, recreational areas, wildlife areas or public and private historical sites unless there are no feasible and prudent alternatives to its use.

VDOT’s recommendation now heads to the CTB, which is set to meet May 18 in Richmond.
On the books since the early 1990s, the five-mile stretch of Route 3 between Stevensburg and Lignum is the only remaining two-lane section of highway between Culpeper and Fredericksburg.

Those in support of the bypass option say a new alignment for the highway makes the most sense. They also say it would allow Stevensburg to retain its rural character and pose less disruption to families, but at the expense of the integrity of historic areas.

Conversely, those opposed to widening the existing highway say doing so would ruin the character of the village and put a stream of steady, high-speed traffic right through their front yards. Some have also expressed concern about Plan A’s design saying that narrowed shoulders, shorter turn lanes and fewer crossovers would actually create a more hazardous situation.
Additionally, Plan A would displace three families while Plan B would displace two families. No businesses or non-profit organizations would be directly affected under either option.
Public favors bypass plan

VDOT’s recommendation contrasts the sentiment of public comments collected over several weeks following the presentation of both plans at a March 23 hearing.

Plan B got the most support with 38 people expressing support for that option. Eighteen people supported Plan A.

At the conclusion of the public comment period on April 14, VDOT had received 72 comment sheets, 27 emails, 13 letters and 53 form letters; 19 from previous respondents and 34 from new respondents. VDOT extended the comment period due to a printing error on some forms that omitted part of VDOT’s mailing address; the agency acknowledged the mistake and encouraged those affected to resubmit their comments.

In addition, 66 people signed in at the March 23 hearing and 19 oral comments were received.
Eleven people supported the highway project with modifications and 10 did not support the project at all while 41 people expressed support for the widening project.

Broke Camp

2011-04-30T17:30:00.000-04:00

Today along the Orange & Alexandria Railroad: April 30, 1864

The Fifth Corps is on the move. Most received orders to begin to move down the railroad towards Brandy Station and link up with the rest of the Army of the Potomac.

As they slide to the south, Major General Ambrose Burnside's Ninth Corps takes up positions along the O&A for a brief few days. Arriving by boat from Annapolis, they landed at Alexandria and marched south.

Henry Seage of the 4th Michigan: Order to be mustered at 10 am began washing clothes and just as we got through the Bugle Sounded the General Call - Packed up, started about 4 pm marched to and camped for the night between Griffen NS, and Rappahannock Station. Was retired from duty at Bealeton by a Pa. Reg of Burnside's 9th Corps. Today began our campaign for the ensuing summer. Began on hard tack for the first time since went into Winter quarters.

91st Pennsylvania Infantry: Broke camp. (Received orders during battalion drill.) Marched to Rappahannock, crossed at Rappahannock Station. Marched to Brandy Station. Lt. Col. Joseph H Sinex was in command of the regiment.

2nd Pennsylvania Reserves: We marched at five o’clock, crossed the Rappahannock and encamped about one mile east of Culpeper Court House, where we remained until the 4th of May.

'I received the BOX'

2011-04-25T19:28:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: April 25, 1864

Mail was important to a soldier, a letter from a loved on or a pen pal would brighten a man's day. But, a box -- a package from home -- now that was cause for celebration.

A portion of a letter from Peter Boyer to his father (Peter)

"I sat down [illeg.] drop a few lines to inform you that I Received my BOX on the 16th all safe and I was very glad for it every thing is good and that is a very nice hankerchief that you sent to me the Box was a little Broken But there was nothing taken out I have plenty to eat now a for a while."

Peter went on to tell his father about a cavalry review that was held in Stevensburg and his unit, the 117th Pennsylvania, had their picture taken. All and all a pretty good week for Peter the younger.

The letter, in its entirety, can be found on the Valley of the Shadow website, http://etext.virginia.edu/etcbin/civwarlett-browsemod?id=F0119

"Gaining every day"

2011-04-20T16:33:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: April 20, 1864

The journal of Major Charles Maddocks, especially in the spring of 1864, is at times, blunt. On March 27, 1864, Maddocks was transferred from the 17th Maine to to the 1st United States Sharpshooters (Berdan's Sharpshooters), to take command of that unit. He found them the men unsoldierly, and undisciplined. The word he used was scallywags. The "Field officers have quarreled among themselves and with the Line continually." He also commented that "Courts martial, arrests, protests and insubordination have been always on the program."
It has been just short of a month, and Maddocks is beginning to warm to his new unit and they to them.

"This afternoon we had a very good skirmish drill. General Birney was riding by and paid us the compliment to stop and look on. He seemed very much pleased. These fellows are very proficient in the skirmish drill, but that is all they are good for. They are poor at marching in step, and it is not wondered at. They have had no music to march by, and, as soldiers, have been very much in the condition of “Topsy” in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” They are not “brought up,” but “growed.” They are however gaining every day, and I shall except to see soldiers in a month where I saw rowdies a month ago. The 17th [Maine] is improving every day and the Band is really splendid. We have a Brigade Dress Parade every afternoon. The Sharpshooters have the right of the Brigade."

Maddocks will not know how is rowdies were in a month, for on May 5th, Major Charles Maddocks would be taken prisoner in the Wilderness and on May 20, 1864 (a month later), he would be somewhere in route to a prison camp in Macon, Georgia.

Easter Sunday

2011-03-27T13:25:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: March 27, 1864 (Easter Sunday) From the letters, diaries and regimental histories that I have access to, there isn't a lot of material from the soldiers about today being Easter Sunday. Joel Molyneux (141st Pennsylvania) is the only soldier to identify the day: "Easter Sunday. Rode to Culpepper with the Capt[ain]. Gen. Hayes at Hd Qrs, and is to command the Second Brigade." Richard Owen (86th New York) was poetic: "Bright and fair with all the blessings of an infinitely good God resting upon me. O for a closer walk with thee. A heart from sin set free. A light to shine upon the road that leads me unto thee. My God my all and is all." Henry Seage (4th Michigan) mentions there was Divine Service at 11:00. But, did not go. George Perkins, (6th New York Independent Battery) went to a service: "Fair and warm. A very interesting Bible lesson this day on Mat[thew] 5th. Discourse in evening and a prayer meeting. Spoke. Cornelia Hancock, a 2nd Corps nurse on Hansbrough Ridge, concluded in a letter to her sister: "Sunday morning- our steward has returned quite drunk and things have not got straightened yet, quite. Liquor I am so down upon. They cannot get it here but he went to Washington as has not recovered himself yet. He has just been in my house, says he is all right for duty now, I hope so. My house is not swept up yet. I suppose you are about getting off to Meeting." For many, like David Wagner (107th Pennsylvania Infantry) it was a normal day in the army: "Company Inspection in the morning. Dress Parade in the evening at 4 O'Clock."

A Brother's Death in the 4th Vermont Infantry

2011-03-26T20:08:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: March 26, 1864

Portion of a letter from Lt. Charles Leach, to his wife, about the death of Charles' brother, Private William Leech (Company H, 4th Vermont), on March 24, 1864, from Typhoid Fever. The Leech's hailed from Fletcher, Vermont:

‘Thursday morning the flush had gone from his cheeks, & more death like color was on him, otherwise, he appeared about the same only weaker & the nervousness of the day before had left him. I saw him last about 11 O.C. & about 2, they sent down word that he was dead. I started as soon as possible to make arrangements to send his body home.

I learned that there was an office of embalming at Brandy Station, so I got an ambulance and were there Thursday afternoon, go a coffin to take the body in, & sent it to the station that night...I would very much like to have taken the body home, myself, but I knew there was no use to try, therefore, have done all that I can do, & hope it may reach home without any accident.

There will be some of his clothes in the box & if I had thought about it before I went to the Station, should have sent everything he had that was worth sending, as it would cost nothing, & help hold the coffin steady in the box...Thursday, the day Wm. Died, was a very pleasant day, & reminded me of a first-rate sap day in Vt., after a big snow storm. "

This letter is found in Howard Coffin's book, "The Battered Stars"

Private William Leech is buried Binghamville Cemetery, Fletcher, Vermont.

The Fourth Vermont was part of Colonel Lewis Grant's Vermont Brigade, from the Second Division of John Sedgwick's Sixth Corps.

Over 1100 Federal soliders assigned to the Army of the Potomac died in the camps. Most from disease such as Typhoid. Those who had left instructions, had money, or friends with money, were embalmed and shipped home for burial. Those not as fortunate were interred in the ground throughout the county. After the war, over 300 of these souls were removed from the ground and moved to the Culpeper National Cemetery. Many, many others remain where they were laid to rest 147 years ago.

Department of Historic Resources weighs in on Route 3

2011-03-25T19:03:00.000-04:00

Today at Stevensburg: March 25, 2011
In today's Culpeper Star Exponent

DHR disputes VDOT's Route 3 findings

By Nate Delesline
Published: March 25, 2011

View the DHR's comments http://media.gatewayva.com/cse/PDFs/route3.pdf

On Thursday, another front emerged in the battle to widen Route 3 in the Stevensburg area, this time between the Department of Historic Resources and the Virginia Department of Transportation.

The DHR formally rejected an earlier VDOT report that claimed an expansion of the highway would have no adverse effects on the Brandy Station Civil War battlefield, Hansbrough’s Ridge, a Stevensburg-area hill that played a role in the war and a recently discovered, secluded natural spring.

In a letter to VDOT dated Thursday, Julie V. Langan of the DHR details the points of disagreement.

“After examining materials presented to us by VDOT and the consulting parties, listening to the views of all sides during the consulting parties meeting, driving the project corridor and studying the revised maps from the American Battlefield Protection Program, DHR must disagree with VDOT’s assessment of effect.”

The letter goes on to say that Hansbrough’s Ridge is a “dominant presence” on the area’s battlefield landscape and that VDOT should undertake efforts to minimize any adverse impacts.

“Additionally, we request that VDOT engineers explore again any possibilities to minimize the footprint of lane additions at Hansbrough’s Ridge in an effort to preserve as much of the ridgeline as possible.”

Finally, the DHR says a recently discovered historic spring, Wicked Bottom, must also be protected. A highway retention pond would take its place if the current plans were advanced.
Project in brief

At a public hearing on Wednesday, VDOT presented two options to expand a 5.1-mile, two-lane section of Route 3 between Stevensburg and Lignum to four lanes.

The first plan, estimated to cost $38.9 million, would widen the road along the existing track, with narrowed shoulders in some areas to minimize the impact to adjacent properties.

The second plan, estimated at $35 million, would construct a new highway route, bypassing Stevensburg to the north and rejoining the existing highway near Clay Hill Road. The second alignment would also cut out a section of Route 3 that’s had multiple fatal crashes in the past few years.

However, VDOT and law enforcement officials have said previously that driver error, deer strikes and inappropriate driving behaviors, not the inherent design of the two-lane road, are to blame for most of the problems.

VDOT Culpeper District spokesman Lou Hatter said the DHR’s review is part of the National Environmental Policy Act that applies to transportation projects using federal funds. Hatter also said that an adverse impact determination is common when projects impact historic resources.

“Addressing these types of questions typically takes 90 to 120 days after reviewing the public hearing comments and coordinating with DHR,” Hatter said late Thursday.

‘Zero sensitivity’

Brandy Station Foundation president Bud Hall said the DHR report vindicates everyone who championed protection of the nearby historic areas. He was also sharply critical of VDOT’s findings.

“It’s a shoddy piece of scholarship,” Hall said. “Their report showed absolute zero sensitivity. The report concluded that a four lane highway through Hansbrough’s Ridge and Stevensburg would have no adverse effect on the historic resources,” Hall said. “I thought it was ludicrous."

“The construction of a 150-foot wide highway with a 16-foot raised median in the center would effectively destroy historic landscape directly affiliated with the Stevensburg phase of the Battle of Brandy Station. DHR is to be commended and applauded for their correction of the record in this matter.”

In addition to the Brandy Station Foundation, Hall said the Germanna Foundation, Piedmont Environmental Council, the Civil War Trust and other groups went on the record to contest VDOT’s findings.

Asked what an acceptable transportation compromise would be, Hall said officials should mirror what was done in Upperville — a widened road with reduced speed limits and traffic calming elements. “Route 50 is busy if not busier and it’s a very safe model.”

Zann Nelson, a local historian and Star-Exponent columnist, also applauded Thursday’s DHR decision.

“DHR is really on top of things when the citizens come forward and raise questions,” she said. “That’s the way the system is supposed to work. If nobody questions a report, you can’t implement the checks and balances. As painful as it is, it is a system that is working properly.”

---
DHR went on to say the "ridge line was the most dominate and significant feature of the Stevensburg phase of the Brandy Station battle. It is also the feature with the greatest remaining historic integrity within the [Route 3] projects Area of Potential Effects."

The "GREATEST REMAINING HISTORIC INTEGRITY." In other words, Hansbrough is just about as close as it could be to the events it witnessed during the Civil War.

It should be and needs to be preserved - as is.

The Battle of Route 3

2011-03-22T19:41:00.000-04:00

Today at Stevensburg: March 22, 2011

As written in today's Culpeper Star Exponent, by Rhonda Simmons.

The battle of Route 3
By Rhonda Simmons
As the Virginia Department of Transportation prepares to move forward with widening the final section of Route 3 in southeastern Culpeper County, opposition from historic preservationists and nearby landowners is gaining momentum.

Members of the Brandy Station Foundation, Civil War Trust, Germanna Foundation and Stevensburg homeowners plan to attend Wednesday’s public hearing to share their concerns about the area’s historic significance and the possibility of homes being destroyed in the process.
The public hearing will take place Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Germanna Community College’s Daniel Technology Center, 18121 Technology Drive, Culpeper.

VDOT staff will explain the process from design through construction. Plans and environmental documents will also be on hand for the public.

The project would widen 5.1 miles of Route 3, transforming the two-lane road to a four-lane divided road from Stevensburg to Lignum.

VDOT has two options: The first would construct a $38.9 million four-lane divided highway along the existing road, roughly following the current road and passing to the south of the village of Stevensburg. According to VDOT, contractors would narrow the road’s median and shoulder improvements to minimize the impact to residential property.

According to VDOT officials, the second option would start on Route 3 just east of U.S. 29, but bypass the village of Stevensburg to the north and return to the existing road just east of Route 739 (Clay Hill Road), continuing to Lignum. This option is estimated at about $35 million.
Lou Hatter, public affairs manager for VDOT’s Culpeper District, pointed to safety hazards and increasing traffic volume as reasons for widening the road.

“(It’s a) section of the roadway that has (had) issues with safety including the head-on collision crash,” Hatter explained. “Widening the road and dividing the median between traffic traveling in opposite directions would certainly be a safety improvement on that piece of road. It’s also a highway that’s handling an increasing amount of traffic.”

After a number of fatal car crashes on this curvy stretch of road in the past few years, including the deadly quadruple wreck in March 2009, VDOT officials began a safety study, which resulted in a few road improvements and new signage.

Another battle begins?
Clark “Bud” Hall, president of the Brandy Station Foundation, said the proposed Route 3 widening project would “seriously and adversely” impact the sensitive historic resources in the village of Stevensburg.

“It will eviscerate a large portion of the Stevensburg phase of the Battle of Brandy Station,” Hall said. “It will remove further a section of Hansbrough’s Ridge, a unique geographical phenomenon to Culpeper County because this 1½-mile-long ridge fronts the Rapidan River. This ridge was a defensive bulwark used in the Civil War by both sides.”

In 1991, the National Register of Historic Places added the Hansbrough Ridge Winter Encampment District to its list.

“It’s an extraordinarily valuable piece of Culpeper’s remarkable Civil War history,” Hall added.
“The Brandy Station Foundation believes that VDOT should show extraordinary sensitivity to Culpeper’s historic resources.”

Clark also offered his suggestions as an alternative to the situation.

He recommends four-laning from Lignum to east of the village of Stevensburg and preserving the current two-lane area near the historic ridge. He also favors adding safety measures such as
reducing the speed limits and putting in “traffic calming mechanisms” through the historic area.
Culpeper historian Zann Nelson (see accompanying column) concurs with Hall, noting the area’s vast historic value in addition to the immeasurable Civil War impact.

“We have been concerned over this and talking with VDOT for more than a year,” said Nelson, who began her research and involvement with the project in February 2010. “This is about the historic integrity of the entire Stevensburg area. Whether it’s the village, houses on the National Register, the Battle of Brandy Station or the 1864 Winter Encampment, it must be considered as a whole unit because each aspect is integrally related to the others.”

Marc Wheat, Germanna Foundation president, plans to speak at Wednesday’s meeting, sharing the historic significance of Salubria, a mid-18th century home built for Lady Butler Brayne Spotswood located just off the two-mile stretched of Route 3 west of Stevensburg.

“The Germanna Foundation is investing tens of thousands of dollars into preserving Salubria and restoring its terraced gardens to make it the premier tourist destination in Culpeper County,” Wheat said. “We want VDOT to complement those efforts, not detract from them.”

Longtime Stevensburg resident Jane Hitt plans to attend the public hearing, too.

“I’m against (the new road) coming through here,” said Hitt, who has lived in her home in the 19000 block of Germanna Highway (Route 3) for 45 years. “I don’t want it to come any closer than it is. It’s too close already.”

What’s next?
VDOT officials expect the Route 3 widening project to advance to the design phase this year, receiving approval for right-of-way acquisition in November.

Advertisements for bids are set for late 2013, and construction will likely begin in the spring of 2014.

VDOT will also receive written or oral statements until its April 4 deadline.

Want to go?
What: VDOT public hearing on the widening of Route 3
Where: Germanna Community College’s Daniel Technology Center, Culpeper
When: Wednesday, 5 to 7 p.m.
More: For a look at the road-widening plans, visit VDOT’s Culpeper District office, 1601 Orange Road in Culpeper, or call 829-7500.

It is estimated by VDOT, that at least 150 feet of Hansbrough's ridge will be destroyed to make room for the additional lanes, drainage, right-of-way and landscaping. This is the section of the ridge where Kirtley's Rolling road (the original Route 3), a wartime road from Norman's Mill and a road the ran along the ridge intersected. All would be lost. this is also the location where Lieutenant-Colonel Frank Hampton of the 2nd South Carolina (Wade's younger brother) was mortally wounded attempting to hold back the Federal onslaught with 36 troopers.

I will be at the GCC Daniel Technology Center on Wednesday night

Payday and rats

2011-03-20T16:39:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: March 20, 1864

A portion of a letter from Cornelia Hancock, a nurse serving the soldiers of the Second Corps, Third Division, on Hansbough Ridge, to her sister. Originally from New Jersey, she began supporting the sick and injured after Gettysburg.

..."We have with us tonight Maj. Hutchins, paymaster for our Division. He has paid all our sick and wounded this evening. We have an extra guard on. There was a very interesting spectacle seeing the men come in to be paid hobbling along on crutches and canes; most of them received $50. Some fine looking young men-it seemed such a pittance to me, considering their wounds. They all seemed pleased, are going to bed praising Dr. F. A. Dudley for securing the paymaster to come to the hospt. He is wide awake and attend to their interest in many ways they never had before."

further in the letter

"The rats have gnawed my two hoods so they cannot be worn. I am wearing now a piece of red flannel doubled, plaited behind with black strings. It looks very fantastic and tolerably comfortable. I do not want another as I shall soon need a hat."

Hancock wrote a number of letters home of her experiences during the winter encampment. A book of her letters: Letters of a Civil War Nurse: Cornelia Hancock, 1863-1865; edited by Henrietta Statton Jaquett.

International Women's Day

2011-03-08T19:47:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station 2010 & 1864

Today is International Women's Day. From Wikipedia: "International Women's Day (IWD), originally called International Working Women’s Day is marked on March 8 every year. Nowadays this is a major day of global celebration of women. In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements. Started as a Socialist political event, the holiday blended in the culture of many countries, primarily Eastern Europe, Russia, and the former Soviet bloc. In many regions, the day lost its political flavour, and became simply an occasion for men to express their love for women in a way somewhat similar to a mixture of Mother's Day and St Valentine's Day. In other regions, however, the original political and human rights theme designated by the United Nations runs strong, and political and social awareness of the struggles of women worldwide are brought out and examined in a hopeful manner."

Now let's go back 147 years. In his diary entry for March 8, 1864, Henry Seage of the 4th Michigan Infantry Regiment attended a Lyceum, which he was a member. A Lyceum is a hall for public lectures or discussions.

Henry wrote: "Rained all day. Made a good Table of Box got at Sutlers. Lyceum at Night. Question Resolved that Women Should have the right of Election Franchise in the U.S. the Same as Men Decided in favor of Neg. Drew Clothing 1 Socks & Shirt. More recruits came.

How ironic that the Lyceum discussed voting rights for women on what would become International Women's Day. Let us hope Henry voted in the Positive.

Beautiful Downtown James City

2011-02-28T19:31:00.001-05:00

Today at James City: February 28, 1864

Kilpatrick has left Stevensburg today on his ill-fated raid on Richmond. As part of the deception and attempt to confuse the Confederates south of the Rapidan, Brig. Gen. George Custer took portions of his command on a raid into Albermarle County. Along with these movements, infantry from the Army of the Potomac also made demonstrations across the Rapidan.

John Haley of the 17th Maine took part in this event. From his diary, he gives us a description and his opinion of James City.

"...we turned off toward Cedar Mountain and shortly came to James City. This busy metropolis consists of the following valuable real estate: two dwellings, one with barn attached, one old carpenter shop, and an old mill – all expecting to tumble to pieces soon. Why such a pigmy hamlet should be called a city is a mystery. The main avenue is a lane terminating in a pasture into which we marched. Another lane intersects this one and passes over hillock dignified by the high-sounding title of Thoroughfare Mountain.
We halted in the shadows of this hill and formed a line to of battle to support the 6th Corps, which has advanced to Madison Court House and Charlottesville. They crossed the Ravenna River near one of these places ...
We who were left here passed the day “seeing the town,” getting acquainted with the names of the streets and public buildings. At night a storm of sleet and rain set in, but we are provided for such an emergency and have tents up, well stockaded with boards from James City."

Haley's diary can be found in the book "The Rebel Yell and Yankee Hurrah: the Civil War Journal of a Maine Volunteer: Private John W. Haley, 17th Maine Regiment," Edited by Ruth L. Silliker

The Old Slave

2011-02-23T19:26:00.000-05:00

I apoligize for the significant gap in blog entries.

Today at Brandy Station: February 23, 1864

From a letter sent by Pvt. Joel Molyneux, 141st Pennsylvania Volunteers, to his sister, which can be found in "Quill of the Wild Goose," edited by Kermit Molyneux Bird.

"Our Hq. Qrs is at the plantation of a man by the name of Ririe. He has three slaves.... One old chap is 101 years old, and I have been having a talk with him of old times. He can remember of times before the Revolution. He lived then near the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay; says he remembers the big snow storm and that it was so deep that it covered up all the houses; that it began to snow of a Friday and it snowed for a week; that they burned up everything in the houses for wood and then dug up on top and went on the crust and carried the wood. The sheep and cattle died because they could not find them.
He heard the cannons when Lafayette came to this country to fight. I suppose it was at Yorktown, but he did not get to see Lafayette. He said that he was “right smart old” at the time of the War of 1812, and remembered a considerable of what happened then. ...
He says he has had three wives that had been sold and could not tell how many children. He has all his faculties good yet. Is quite smart. Stands up straight. Says he can walk 20 miles in a day, easy. He has never been whipped – would fight first, run away, etc., then come back when he got ready..."

How much Ririe's slave states is true or not, we will never know. But it does sound like Joel had some interesting conversations.

49 Acres Saved in the Wilderness

2011-01-06T18:59:00.000-05:00

Today in Orange County: January 5, 2011.

OK, it happened yesterday. From the CWPT website.

Civil War Preservation Trust Completes $1 Million Campaign to Save Battlefield Land at the Wilderness

National fundraising campaign results in protection of 49-acres of hallowed ground at historic Saunders Field on Wilderness Battlefield
(Orange County, Va.) – The Civil War Preservation Trust is pleased to announce that it has successfully completed a $1 million fundraising effort to permanently protect 49 acres at the very heart of the Wilderness Battlefield. First announced in October 2010, the effort will set aside a portion of historic Saunders Field immediately north of State Route 20 for eventual incorporation into Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park.
“Saving critically important landscapes like this is precisely why this organization exists,” said CWPT president James Lighthizer. “Generations of Americans will now have the opportunity to walk this hallowed landscape and gain a fuller understanding of the horrors of war experienced by the soldiers fighting in the Wilderness.”
Acquisition of the Middlebrook Tract has long been a priority for the preservation community, both for the intensity of the fighting that occurred there on May 5 and 6, 1864, and for its unique location, entirely surrounded by land owned and protected by the National Park Service. Since the land sits within national park boundaries, the project was ineligible for federal matching grant funds, leaving preservationists to raise the entire purchase price from private sources.
“I would personally like to thank everyone who stepped forward this holiday season to give a gift to the nation by donating in any amount, large or small,” said Lighthizer. “Several contributors indicated to me they considered this property so historically significant that they made multiple donations to the effort.” Lighthizer also noted that the campaign was also our most successful online fundraising effort to date.
The terms of the acquisition contract placed the purchase price at $1,085,000, if closing occurred before the end of 2010. While the transaction will be finalized in 2011, a year end fundraising surge means that CWPT has collected enough in donations and firm pledges to cover the base price and an extension fee.

The First Sabbath of 1864

2011-01-03T19:51:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: January 3, 1864

A fairly quiet day for the army.

A soldier in the 141st Pennsylvania Infantry caught the 3 o'clock train heading towards Brandy Station to visit friends. He began his journey at Warrenton Junction, a distance of 18 miles.

There was no service nor inspections in the 4th Michigan Infantry. But they did have an evening parade, their first since before Christmas.

Those soldiers whom decided to re-enlist in the 91st Pennsylvania Infantry were having a pretty good day. These men were preparing to take the cars in a northbound direction, heading home tomorrow to the Philadelphia area, on reenlistment furlough. They will return as Veteran Volunteers.

Lucius Bidwell, in the 14th Connecticut Infantry, wrote to his brother, lamenting that the recent snow had all cleared off the ground (more coming tonight), so no sledding, as there likely was home. Lucius also told his brother of a letter he has received from his 'sweet Philadelphian.'

William Owens, in the 86th New York Infantry, probably had the best day. Owens was called out of church to receive his pay.

"...without any important events."

2011-01-01T19:21:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: January 1, 1864

Elisha Rhodes, of the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, captures the essence of this first day of the new year:

"The new year opens without any important events. The troops are in comfortable quarters, built of logs and covered with canvas. Drill takes place daily and an occasional review breaks up the monotony of our camp life. "

It is a Friday in the army. So, those not drilling are in their quarters and huts. The ground is muddy and the air wet and windy.

There is however, some men celebrating the coming new year, a soldier in the 20th Indiana writes of his sister regiment, the 99th Pennsylvania, "The 99th Penn. are nearly all drunk, and make noise enough for both regiments."

always the 'special duty'

2010-12-30T16:24:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: December 30, 1863

Soldiers are always tasked with details. Police the grounds, picket duty, guard duty, stable duty, trash, etc... the list goes on and on. Today the 91st Pennsylvania published a list of soldiers in the regiment whom had been detailed to support the regimental leadership.

Henry Schaefer (Co. A)was detailed to Colonel Gregory to act as hostler.
John Costner (A) was cooking for his company commander, Captain Gregory.
Ed. Gamble (B) was cooking for his company commander, Lt. Kayser.
Joseph M. Johns[t]on (D) was cooking for Lt. Col Sinex.
Joesph Rementer (E) was cooking for his company commander, Captain Hall.
Henry Dunn (I) was cooking for his company commander, Lt. Donnell.

A hostler is a groom or stableman. Schaefer's mission in life was the care and feeding of Colonel Gregory's horses. It has to be assumed that the others had some skill in the preparation of meals. Gamble would be wounded at Petersburg in June 1864, the others survived the war.

These men had been detailed to these tasks within the last three months.

It should also be noted that Sergt David F. Mansfield (Co F) was detailed today to duty in the ambulance train, relieving Sargent John Hammill.

"I took care of a friend"

2010-12-24T17:31:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: December 24, 1863

From the diary of William Owen, 86th New York Infantry:

"Dec. 24. Stayed in camp. I took care of my sick friend Asa."

There is little better that you can do on Christmas Eve.

Asa is likely Asa Croos, who was wounded at Orange Grove on November 27, 1863. Croos survived the war. Owen also survived. He was captured on May 10, 1864 along the Po River and would spend nine months in a POW camp.

William Owen's diary can be found at: http://www.angelfire.com/ny4/djw/86th.owendiaries.html

"Shot to death by musketry"

2010-12-18T19:57:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: December 18, 1863

On this day, five soldiers in the Army of the Potomac were shot for desertion.

John Tegue, 5th Vermont Infantry
George E. Blowers, 2nd Vermont Infantry
William H Devoe, 57th New York Infantry
Winslow N. Allen, 76th New York Infantry
John McMann, 11th U.S. Infantry

All are interesting and unique stories. But I will just discuss one, Winslow Allen. Maybe next year I will detail one or more of the others.

In today's terms, I would submit that Allen would be considered a winner of the infamous 'Darwin Award'. Originally in Company H of the 76th NY, he deserted in the spring of 1862 when the regiment was in Washington. On September 27, 1863, Company H of the 76th received eight new recruits and yup, Allen was one of the recruits. Yes I said he deserted from and rejoined the same company.

As the story goes..."He was possessed of a beautiful wife and one child, but, tempted by the bounty of three hundred dollars, he had sold himself as a substitute, trusting to fortune to make his escape again. As he was marched by the sergeant down the company street, though dark, his voice was recognized by his former comrades. This coming to the ears of the officers, he was arrested and placed in confinement to await his trial for desertion."

The trial and forlorn hope for appeal followed. On this fateful day:

"As they marched to the mournful measure of the death march, and neared the fatal spot where the rough coffin and gaping grave were waiting to receive their victim, he seemed suddenly struck with terror, and, seizing the Captain's [Swan] hand with a vice-like grasp, thus remained until they arrived at the coffin. Around him were formed his companions whom he had deserted. The grave which was to receive him as a loathsome criminal, was fresh beside him. It was a severe test of his physical courage. To none but the Captain was there the exhibition of the least emotion.
The condemned man was placed upon the foot of his coffin; the bandage placed over his eyes; his hands pinioned. The charges, specifications, findings and order for his execution bad been read. The Captain bent over him, and, his heart almost too full for utterance, whispered: "Winslow, I can go no further with you ; the rest of your dark journey is alone. Have you any last word for your wife and child?""No, Only tell them I love them all!" These were his last words. The Captain stepped back a few feet; the officer gave the signal to the executioners; the report as of a single gun rang out, and Winslow N. Allen fell lifeless upon his coffin. He had, on that day completed his twenty-sixth year. He died without a perceptible movement of a muscle."
The quotes are from the 'History of the 76th New York Volunteers" by A. B. Smith

A soldier in the 76th wrote to his wife that night; and after discussing the weather, the positive implications of avoiding a fight on the Rapidan [Mine Run] and the chance of furlough, he talked about the execution. The private states, "The court found him guilty of desertion, and sentenced him "to be shot to death by musketry." He was shot to day in presence of the 2d brigade."

His final line of the topic was poignant." "In looking over the mail to-night I noticed two letters for Winslow Allen, each marked "Please forward in haste." They came too late."

A gift to the Powhatan Cavalry Troop

2010-12-17T20:31:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: December 17, 1861

The article below appeared today (1861 of course) in the Richmond Dispatch concerning a give to the Powhatan Troop, otherwise known as Company E, 4th Virginia Cavalry Regiment. Someone in the company must have made a very positive impression on Annie E. Wise of Culpeper.

---
A "Battle-Flag" for the Powhatan Troop.
We have been favored with the following correspondence between one of our patriotic Virginia ladies and the gallant commander of the Powhatan Troop. The letters speak for themselves, and we therefore, without further comment, give them to the reader:

Bel Bee, near Brandy Station, Culpeper, Nov. 28, 1861.Capt. Jno. F. Lay:
Dear Sir:
Be pleased to accept this "Battle-Flag" which I have taken great pleasure in making, and which I now present to your command; though it be pierced with many balls and stained with precious blood, rally around it with brave and determined hearts, protecting the interest common to us all — our beloved country. With much respect,
Annie E. Wise.

Cavalry Camp Beauregard, December 3, 1861.
My Dear Miss Annie:
This banner sent to us from your fair young hands was as opportune a gift to the "Powhatan Troop" as it was beautiful--"deep feelings, few words." Be assured your banner shall be borne proudly at the head of my command, wheresoever duty shall call, and whensoever a "battle flag" is flung to the air by the Army of the Potomac, and as we look at its brilliant folds, there shall ever be mingled kind memories of the fair donor, with a determination to be worthy of the love and devotion of the women of the South--a determination to secure to their homes immunity from the presence of the brutal invaders whose feet are now at the threshold of our beloved Virginia.
With warm regards and thanks in the name of the company, I am, my dear Miss Annie, your friend.
John F. Lay,

Capt. Commanding Powhatan Troop.
---

Captain Lay survived the war, being promoted to Major in March 1865. He left Company E and joined General Beauregard's staff in April, 1862.

One Man's Opinion of the Mine Run Campaign

2010-12-07T21:14:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: December 7, 1863

I have a few letters in my collection for Michael S. Austin, a Lieutenant in the 5th New Jersey Infantry. On this day he wrote to his father thanking him for shipping a box of goods, including butter ("Butter is good – and I am sure most officers would like to mess with me while it lasts.")

But what interested me was his commentary concerning General George Gordon Meade's decision not to continue the fight at Mine Run:

"Much censure is cast upon Gen Mead[e] for the apparent failure of the late campaign. Those who were more closely connected & interested in that affair, are satisfied that it terminated as it should have done, after they saw what they had first to overcome – considering, that there was a chance that the [?] might be repulsed – in which case a rout would, almost, have been a certain thing. Today there are 15,000 men living, & of service, if properly used. In the case contemplated, that number of men would have been lost to the enemy & country, with a great chance of defeat."

Baby it's cold outside

2010-12-06T19:36:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: December 6, 1863 & 2010

History does repeat itself. The temperature in Brandy Station right now is 32 degrees (at 7:30pm) with a wind chill of 16. The overnight low is predicted to be 26 degrees. Wind is blowing 10-15 miles per hour with gusts to 30 or more.

in 1863...
... "Cold weather."

"The weather is cold as Greenland, it freezes water in our house half an inch."

"Today has been quite cold, sharp wind -- "

"It has been very cold for a few days and they done me a great deal of good already. We have not had any snow yet. "

"Last night was probably the coldest we have had yet this winter. It was very windy. To day is clear but cold."

"This is an awful cold Sunday, we have to lay in bed, to keep from freezing."

Our last soldier, I believe has the right idea.

...out of the wilderness

2010-12-03T20:52:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: December 3, 1863

The Union army recrosses the Rapidan River today and returns to it's former camps in and around Brandy Station. As they finally settle in for the winter, the First Corps will camp south of the town of Culpeper; the Second Corps will camp in the vicinity of Stevensburg; the Third Corps in and around Brandy Station; The Fifth Corps along the Orange and Alexandria Railroad between Rappahannock Station and the Bull Run and the Sixth Corps along the Hazel River, centered near Farley. The Cavalry will be dispersed, with divisions at Stevensburg and Warrenton.

But the commentary from the soldiers about there return is what today's blog is about:

86th New York: Stayed in camp all day, tired & worn out & rations short. Stragglers coming in all day. Called up in the night to march, did not go.

4th Michigan: Rose early and Packed up and went to the Rappahanock River crossed at Rapp Station and our Brig went on to Bealeton Station where we Camped for the night.

2nd Rhode Island: We moved three miles to this camp. I do not understand the late movements, but I presume General Meade does, and that is sufficient for me.

20th Indiana: Got back to our old camp about daylight. ...left the rapidan about noon, marching a short distance ...stopping for the train to pass, ...we stopped in the woods and were told that we would lay there three hours. About eleven we started again. I never saw worse roads in my life...

111th New York: We have just got Orders, to pack up everything, & be ready to move at a moments notice. Now for a general Sekdaddle, to Washington. It is also reported that Joe Hooker, had Command of the Army again. If this is so, we may be kept pretty busy this winter. You may be sure we are living anything, but Comfortable...

17th Maine: ...we recrossed the Rapidan, thankful to be alive. As soon as we got over, a band near the end of the bridge piped up, “O Ain’t We Glad We’re Out of the Wilderness.” We rather thought we were, and a hearty “Amen!” rose from every throat.

Jed Hotchkiss, mapmaker for General Richard Ewell wrote to his wife today: "...Well, we got back to our old quarters again today, Mr. Meade would not stay & fight, he ran away night before last & recrossed the river, we followed as soon as we saw that he was gone, but he had too much the start & we only succeeded in catching some 300 of the stragglers & rear guard..."

And the Army of the Potomac's Winter Encampment will finally begin.

The press reports on a Mosby raid

2010-11-30T21:09:00.000-05:00

Today at Gordonsville: November 30, 1863

It was reported from Gordonsville, in the Richmond Daily Dispatch, of an incident in Brandy Station.

-Gordonsville, Va., Sunday, Nov.29--1 P. M.
Major Mosby and his hand came upon the rear of Meade's wagon train, near Brandy Station, just before daylight Friday morning, capturing one hundred and twelve mules and twenty prisoners. --They also destroyed between thirty and forty wagons, and came very near capturing Gen. French, of the Yankee army. Mosby's men report the line of the Orange Railroad abandoned, and think Meade will go to Fredericksburg if defeated. The mules captured are all of the finest kind. X.

I do not know who X was, but he pretty much got the story correct. Mosby crossed the Hazel River and raided French's Headquarters (the Miller House atop Fleetwood Hill) and, while missing French, who was away, did nabbed a number of his detailed staff of enlisted. The most interesting capture was French's cartographer, Robert Sneeden.

Sneeden was an anonymous man until the 1990's when his diaries and more importantly his art, was uncovered in Arizona and Connecticut. Sneeden's work, published as "Eye of the Storm", and "Voices of the Storm" are must haves if you are interested in the 1862 Campaign around Richmond, the activities of the Army of the Potomac in the fall of 1863 and a inside look at the Confederate prison system.

Mine Run

2010-11-28T15:18:00.000-05:00

Today in Orange County: November 28, 1863

The Army of the Potomac has left what many thought was their winter quarters in and around Brandy Station. Today the army finds itself in Orange County, beginning what would be called the Mine Run Campaign.

One of the many writings detailing the Federal march to contact. This is from the diary of George Perkins, Sixth New York Independent Battery. It is from the book "Three Years a Soldier," Edited by Richard N. Griffin.

"Unharnessed at daylight. Commenced to rain...About noon the rain ceased and at the same "boots and saddle" sounded....whole brigade started toward the Rapidan crossing the plank road and following and exceedingly narrow and muddy road which forms an acute angle with the plank road towards the river. The way lay most of the way through thick woods."

Perkins of course had entered the western edge what we all now know as the Wilderness. He crossed at Germanna Ford(other forces crossed at Jacob's Ford), and using modern roads, left route 3 turning down route 601 and moved onto 603 and then to route 611, reaching Robinson's Tavern and the Orange Turnpike. The unit continued on to Parker's Store, where is remained throughout the fight. Perkins and the 6th NY Independent Battery missed the fighting at Payne's Farm, which took place the previous day. They crossed over that portion of the battlefield as they journeyed to Parker's Store

More food

2010-11-22T20:06:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 22, 1863

While looking through the diaries, letters and other documents about today, rations again seem to be on peoples mind. Yesterday it was the 2nd Corps. Today the 5th Corps.

I am a little surprised. What would become the Mine Run Campaign is still four days off (actually, it was to begin on November 25, but weather postponed the beginning. Still, far be it for the army not to hurry up and wait.

A small portion of a letter from a soldier in the 146th NY: "Be ready to move at a moments notice with 8 days rations on your back is a standing order and he is a lucky man that has any writing paper or envelopes in his possession."

A circular from the 91st Pennsylvania:
Head Quarters 91. Reg. P.V Circular
In pursuance of General Order N. 50 dated Head Quarters 2nd Div. 5th Corps Nov 21/63
Hereafter the amount of subsistence required to be carried in the Knapsacks of the troops in active Campaigns will be 2 days of hard Bread, Coffee Sugar & Salt instead of Five as heretofore directed.
Three days full Rations will be carried in Haversacks & Company Commanders will see that the above amount will be in the hands of their men on the morning of the 23rd in not.

What makes this really interesting (and typical) is the mixed signal. The soldier in the 146th got the word for eights days rations, while the 91st states two days rations (vice the previous five days). But of course, we must confuse things by saying that company commanders will see that soldiers have three days full rations.

Confused? Try being there...

Not enough food, too much food

2010-11-21T19:28:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 21, 1863

It is usually the case. Soldiers go for days and not receive their rations. Other times, they have more then they can eat. How can a soldier have to much?

Think about it. The soldier carries just about everything on his person, including food. The food of course is carried in his haversack. Inside that bag the contents (hardtack, coffee, tobacco, salted pork, maybe a potato or an onion) gets bounced around, dropped, used as a pillow or whatever else that could (and does happen). I guess it is the original casserole, uncooked of course.

Why do I mention this. Consider the experience of a soldier in the 111th New York Infantry. A portion of a letter to his father is below:

"Our Brig. Genl., is carrying things with a high hand, last night he ordered, 5 Days rations dealt out, which with the 6 Days we have on hand, would have made 11 Days, what do you think of that, for a load. Lusk [his friend], refused to take the Rations, & went to [Dir] Genl Hays, who [raved] around considerable & said his men, should not carry such Loads. We are on short Rations all the time, as we draw Field Rations, while we are in Camp, which makes a difference."

General Alexander Hays is the Hays our man refers to, is his Brigadier Commander. It took a little bit of courage to approach Hays. But as we see, Hay's concurred and after raving, agreed with Lusk.

A Review by Foreigners

2010-11-16T19:03:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 16, 1863

Major General William French's Third Corps held a review today (JEB Stuart didn't have a monopoly on reviews at Brandy Station). The reason for the event was the visit by four British officers: Lt. Col. Earle; Lord Castlecuffe (of the Grenadier Guards) and Captains Stephenson and Peel (of the Scotch Fusileer Guards).

The First (BG David Birney) and Third (BG Joseph Carr) Divisions were reviewed first, with some 48 pieces of artillery, and then separately the Second Division (BG Henry Prince). All before lunch. Lunch was at General French's Headquarters, which was at the Miller House, atop Fleetwood Hill.

The rank and file also commented on the event:

"A review today.'

"Grand review of our Corps (3rd) by Maj Gen French, commanding with staff and some foreign officers."

"Review this morning by Gen. French of two divisions of the corps. Some foreign officers were with the reviewing party. We did not march in review as usual, but stood in columns in mass while the reviewing party rode in front of the column. "

A heavy cannonading in the distance

2010-11-15T16:31:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 15, 1863

As I reviewed what was on the minds of soldiers today, the sound of heavy cannonading was heard in many camps. It began around 9am and was "off to the left". The cause was unknown, but "...are anticipating a battle somewhere on the Rapidan River"

The firing was also heard in the Midland area, between Warrenton Junction and Bealeton. "This morning the day was opened with cannonading in our front; with what success is not known."

Orders were given throughout the army to be ready to move at a moments notice.

According to Theodore Lyman, of General Meade's staff: [written on November 16] "Yesterday morning we heard heavy artillery fire, apparently not over two miles away! It proved to be a reconnaissance by Custer at Raccoon Ford, 10 miles away. The damp air probably conveyed the sound; but there was some singular reflection, for at Stevensburg it was not heard at all."

It wasn't heard in Stevensburg (five miles), but it was heard in Midland (nearly 20 miles), Bealeton (15 miles), along the Hazel River (13 miles) and near Cedar Mountain (about 5 miles), and Brandy Station (10 miles). Acoustic shadow strikes again.

Lost near Brandy Station

2010-11-14T12:30:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 14, 1863

As it appeared in the Richmond Daily Dispatch:

To officers and Privates of Gen R. E. Lee's army.
--I will pay a reward of $200 for my boy Thornton, if lodged in jail so I can get him again. He is 35 years of age, a mulatto, about 5 feet7 inches, weighs about 160 lbs, whiskers and moustache, intelligent, good looking, writes well, well built, one or two small hard lumps on side of his neck. He was formerly owned by Col. J. Willis, near Orange C. H., and left there two weeks ago for the army at Brandy Station. He left Montgomery in the charge of a Lt Brooks, and he may be in some Alabama regiment. He may go by some other name. Address me, at Montgomery, Ala.
S. P. Wreford.

I have no idea if S.P. Wreford ever saw Thornton again. There are many documented stories of the loyalty of slaves to stay with their masters throughout the war. There are just as many stories of slaves who took the opportunity and crossed over the lines into Federally controlled land. Thornton could have just as easily been in either camp.

Laundry Day

2010-11-13T16:54:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 13, 1863

Sometimes, as I look over the events of a certain day, the mundane appears. For soldiers, life was hurry up and wait; days, weeks and maybe months between action -- then brief moments of shear terror. Those moments are what most remember.

But what is captured in the diaries and letters, is the mundane, day-to-day survival of the private. Their diaries tell of what they did, or what was important to them that particular day. It will never make the regimental histories, but nonetheless, doing laundry was an important part of life.

Today, in the diaries and letters, the simple, quiet life emerges.

141st Pennsylvania: "[I] had Dandy [Graves’ horse] shod all around."

4th Michigan: "Jimmy Washed Clothes"

86th New York: "Washed some clothes..."

91st Pennsylvania: "...continued occupying quarters at Mountain Run...'

49th New York: "[no] mail today."

20 Indiana: "I done some extensive patchwork on my pantaloons to day, as indeed it was getting about time."

Protecting Property

2010-11-12T16:32:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 12, 1863

From the Diary of Edwin Weist, 20th Indiana:

"Camp in the woods near Brandy Station. Our camp is on land belonging to the Hon. John Miner Botts, and a circular was read on dress parade ordering all officers to protect his property as far as possible. He is living with his family but a short distance from here."

John Botts, owner of Auburn would spend a good portion of the winter protecting his wood lots, fences and farm animals from being 'liberated' by the boys in blue. He would become such an issue that units actually moved off his property so they would not have to deal with him and his allegations of impropriety. Botts would press for payment for wood cut/used during the winter and for years afterwards. His family would receive final payment after he died.

Colonel Duffie' - leading the charge

2010-11-11T16:45:00.000-05:00

Today along the Hazel River: November 11, 1862

From the history of the First Rhode Island Cavalry, by Frederic Denison
Near Hazee [Hazel] Run occurred a smart skirmish – a battle, indeed – in which our squadrons participated, Colonel [Alfred] Duffie, with carbine in hand, leading our men, and himself emptying a rebel saddle. We had two horses wounded, but no men; and we rolled the enemy back to Culpeper Court House. We ought to mention the coolness, bravery, and executive skill often exhibited by Lieutenant-Colonel Thompson.

Throughout the war, around the big battles, small actions like this one occurred. May resulted in little or no casualties, such as this on. While these events get little or no attention, all it would take is a random shot to end a life. And to that soldier, it doesn't matter if it is at Gettysburg, Fredericksburg, Brandy Station, or along the Hazel River.

Squatters

2010-11-10T17:16:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 10, 1863

The Army of Northern Virginia has vacated Culpeper County, and into the vacuum swept the Army of the Potomac.

Soldiers will always take the path of least resistance, especially when it comes to "housing":

2nd Pennsylvania Reserves: "We marched to Mountain Run, where we also found comfortable quarters, which the enemy had erected in expectation of enjoying a pleasant winter’s rest. We remained here until the 24th..."

20th Indiana: "Camp in the woods near Brandy Station. This morning we changed front and went into regular camp. The rebels had up very good winter quarters here and left them a very great hurry leaving their rations of fresh beef behind. I got hold of a paper (Richmond Examiner)..."

141st Pennsylvania: "put up our tent by one of Johnny’s chimneys, for we have routed them out of their snug winter quarters."

Hey, they weren't going to be using them...

First snow of the year

2010-11-09T16:59:00.000-05:00

Today at Brandy Station: November 9, 1863

It is a simple statement on the wall: "First snow of the year November 9, 1863" The wall of course is in the Graffiti House in Brandy Station. This comment was revealed during restoration work completed by Christopher Mills this past spring.

All by itself, no other commentary. But true.

From the diary of a member of 3rd Massachusetts Light, Battery C: "There was a snow squall in the afternoon."

The History of the 40th Virginia Infantry reported: "...regiment marched through falling snow to the old camp along the Rapidan."

And Henry Seage of the 4th Michigan recorded in his diary: "It Snowed quite hard tonight the first snow of the Season"

The weather impacted the soldier greatly during the war, and diaries almost always included the local weather. It was important to the soldier to document how he endured the elements.

The 9th of November was also the last day the Army of Northern Virginia spent in Culpeper County. It's twin defeats at Kelly's Ford and Rappahannock Station by the Army of the Potomac closed the book on this portion of the ANV's storied history.

Personal note: between work and personal requirements and demands as well as my health, has caused this two month plus pause in the Today at Brandy Station blog. I hope most of these issues are behind me and I endeavour to again chronicle the daily passage of time and activities in and around Brandy Station.

Brandy Station in Civil War News

2010-08-30T16:22:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 30, 2010

Two Owners Donate Easements On 782 Brandy Station Battlefield Acres

By Scott C. Boyd(September 2010 Civil War News)

BRANDY STATION, Va. – Two conservation easements donated to the state have added a total of 782 acres of preserved land to the Brandy Station Battlefield in Culpeper County.

“What this means is that, in return for some state tax credits based on the value of their property, these landowners have forsaken all future development rights to this land — meaning, it will be protected just the way it is forever,” Civil War Preservation Trust (CWPT) President Jim Lighthizer said in a July 30 appeal letter.

He wrote, “As part of the deal, and to help make sure these transactions went through, the Civil War Preservation Trust was asked to pay some of the landowners’ closing costs — a total of about $67,000.”

He called the $85.68 per acre cost to CWPT “one of the better and more innovative bargains we have ever struck.”

Until the easements were announced, the CWPT had preserved slightly over 1,000 acres at Brandy Station. Now the total is 1,797 acres, according to CWPT Policy and Communications Director Jim Campi.

“In both these easements here, you’re talking about highly significant battlefield property,” according to Clark B. “Bud” Hall, president of the non-profit Brandy Station Foundation (BSF) and historian of the battle.

“We’re thrilled about it,” Hall said. “All congratulations are due to the CWPT, because without their money, which comes from their donors, we couldn’t close the deal.”

“CWPT has been extraordinarily willing to work to secure easements around America’s greatest cavalry battlefield,” Hall noted.

“It’s a fact that the Brandy Station Battlefield remains threatened because of the pressures of adjacent residential and commercial development,” he said.

Negotiations, which he could not yet discuss publicly, are under way to secure additional “significant acreage” on and around the battlefield.

Lighthizer’s letter said the easement donors wished to remain anonymous, however local newspapers identified the Gyory family as the donors of 433 acres of Willow Run Farm on the eastern portion of the battlefield.

The second easement was for 349 acres of the Beauregard Farm on the northern part of the battlefield.

Of the Beauregard Farm tract, Hall said, “I can’t imagine a more important easement on the entire battlefield.”

Confederate Brig. Gen. W.H.F. “Rooney” Lee’s entire defensive position during the morning of 9 June 1863 is on the Beauregard Farm. “You could not more precisely draw an easement that would more accurately incorporate an entire line of troops,” according to Hall.

“Importantly, the CWPT already owns the Federal attack platform on the Cunningham Farm and this is contiguous with the Beauregard Farm.”

He said, “The dividing line between the properties is a stone wall which Rooney Lee’s brigade held during that morning. West of the stone wall are the Confederates and east of the stone wall are the Federals.”

“How many battlefields can you say that you got the entire morning phase of the battle protected — in one case by acquisition, CWPT land, and in the next case by this incredibly valuable easement? I’m thrilled to have it,” Hall said.

“What you’ve got is, in concert, a saved piece of battlefield that was purchased by acquisition now complemented in a major, major way by this easement.”

Lighthizer mentioned the potential fate the Beauregard Farm faced before the easement: “Three million square feet of retail stores, a 2,500-seat multiplex movie theater, 16 restaurants, 300 apartments, a water park, three hotels, three banks, three gas stations, a lighted(!) 18-hole golf course, an equestrian center, an ice skating rink and even a private K-12 school.”

Hall was also extremely pleased with the 433-acre Willow Run Farm easement. “This property gives us a wonderful piece of land that was marched over, camped upon and fought over as Confederate and Union cavalry forces vied with each other for control of the Brandy plain,” he said.

“Now you can have Confederate Maj. Gen. J.E.B. Stuart’s viewscape from Fleetwood Hill all the way to the Rappahannock River,” he pointed out. “This was ground where Federal cavalry officers would deploy their troops for attacks against Fleetwood Hill.”

“When preservation groups work together, terrific things happen. The BSF is privileged to be a partner with CWPT,” Hall said.

For more information go to
www.civilwar.org/battlefields/brandy-station.html and
www.brandystationfoundation.com

George Writes Home

2010-08-26T06:26:00.000-04:00

Today at Beverly Ford: August 26, 2010

Portion of a letter from George Fox (6th New Jersey Infantry/Third Corps) to his brother:

Camp 6th N. J. Vols near Beverley Ford Va. Aug 26th/[18]63
Dear Brother
I have just received your welcome Letter and I now set down to answer it.

We have quite a change in the weather. Last night about dark we had a hard shower and heavy wind and it blew up so cold that we nearly froze in the night. It looked queer this morning to see the boys standing around Cook fires. They have all got their wish for they all was complaining of the weather being so warm.

We have not moved and I do not believe we will for a while. Conscripts is beginning to come in here. The Eleventh Massachusetts received near three hundred the other day. There is going to be three conscripts shot next Saturday for deserting. They belong to the Corn Exchange Regt. (118 Pa) and lay right near us. I was over there today and saw them.

I am in first rate health hope this will find you all the same. I weigh more than I ever did before.
I was over to see the 14th Jersey the other day about one half of them is sick. They are just beginning to find out what soldering is. When I set down to write I hardly know what to write about as it is so dull in Camp nothing going on except the Boys playing Ball.

Give my love to all of our Folks also to Annie, Eddie, Joe and take a large portion for yourself and I Remain
Your Affectionate Brother George W. Fox

George tells us a few interesting things. The hot weather has finally broken, to the point where soldiers gather around the fire to stay warm. Conscripts have begun to filter into camp, the volunteers that flocked into service are now gone. For the remainder of the war it will be mostly conscripts and bounty soldiers.

George also mentions the five soldiers of the Corn Exchange Regiment awaiting execution. These men, all conscripts who spoke no English, deserted either before they arrived in camp or just after. They are to be shot in two days.

George claims good health, but the men of the 14th New Jersey are not doing as well. The 14th is a new regiment and are adapting to life in camp. Finally, he mentions life has gotten dull and playing ball. Playing baseball was a common experience in camp, as was a form of cricket. And I have to feel that George would prefer dull camp life than fighting; but fighting will bring the war to the end and George home.

George Fox transferred to the 8th New Jersey in July 1864, and was mustered out a year later

Some Good News at Kelly's Ford

2010-08-25T06:27:00.000-04:00

Today at Kelly's Ford: August 25, 2010

From today's edition of the Culpeper Star Exponent:

A cleaner riverbank, thanks to Fauquier County

By Nate Delesline Published: August 25, 2010

One week after community service workers removed 12 bags of trash from the Fauquier County side of the Kelly’s Ford riverbank, officials said that some elements of a plan to clean up and stop abuses along the Rappahannock River may be in place within a month. Tom Pavelko, director of Fauquier County’s Office of Adult Court Services, oversaw the two most recent cleanup efforts at what historians describe as one of the most important river crossings of the Civil War.
“We did the cleanup last Wednesday, and we also followed up (Monday),” he said.

But when about a half-dozen community service workers returned for the second cleaning, “We could tell that there was some evidence of illegal alcohol use,” Pavelko said.

He explained that the issue has gained the attention of a larger audience after stories about the problem appeared last week in the Free Lance Star and the Star-Exponent.

If the weather is nice, state officials, volunteer groups and local residents say people looking for a free recreation spot close to home trash the area with food containers, beer cans and even used diapers. The visitors are also suspected of chopping up trees, setting campfires and spending the night.

None of those things are allowed.

The Brandy Station Foundation, a local historic preservation group, owns the Culpeper riverbank. A substantial portion of the area is also under the control of the Department of Game and inland fisheries.

Ron Hughes , a land and facilities manager with DGIF, said Tuesday that Culpeper County officials, area volunteer groups and organizations like Friends of the Rappahannock and the Brandy Station Foundation are taking extra steps to minimize illegal activity.

Hughes said they all agree with a plan to institute closer monitoring and more strict enforcement through better signage and usage of existing regulations.

“We feel it’s a good approach, and the county agreed,” he said. “What we want to do is promote appropriate use on our management areas.”

According to DGIF appropriate use means fishing, hunting or observing wildlife, not camping or swimming. Hughes said the surge of activity has even caused some erosion on the Fauquier riverbank — yet another reason to stop the problem now.

“Our intent is to protect the resources and to protect the safety of the people,” he said. “We’re all working as partners to keep this river clean and pristine.”

The Second Burning of the Rappahannock River Bridge

2010-08-23T22:02:00.000-04:00

Today along the Rappahannock: August 23, 1862

In the morning Gen. Longstreet drove the enemy across the Rappahannock Bridge, with a loss to them, but they succeeded in burning the bridge. Gen. Jackson remained at Lee’s Springs all day and took infantry and artillery over to the hills across the river. The enemy came up late in the P.M. and we opened on them; they replied and a fierce artillery duel took place. When the enemy’s infantry advanced a Georgia regiment charged on them with a yell and drove them away. I came up in the afternoon and found all engaged on fixing to cross the river. Gen. Stuart got back from an expedition to the enemy’s rear at Catlett’s, he captured wagons; some 300 prisoners, money, Pope’s Hd. Qr.s papers, etc. There was a heavy rain in the P.M. and the streams are getting up.

The Orange & Alexander bridge over the Rappahannock River at Rappahannock Station would suffer the fate of being destroyed throughtout the war. This episode was the second burning of the year. The first was done by the Confederates the previous spring, when they evacuated Culpeper in April.

The General Court-Martial of Lt. Morris Kayser

2010-08-22T11:55:00.000-04:00

Today at Beverly's Ford: August 22, 1863

Charges and specifications preferred against Morris Kayser 1st Lieut Co. "B" 91st Reg. Pa. Vols

Charge 1st = Absence without leave
Specification 1st = In this that he the same Morris Kayser 1st Lieut Co "B" 91st Reg. Pa. Vols. did leave his company and Regt. without permission from proper authority. This at camp near Falmouth Va on or about the 9th day of February 1863
Specification 2nd = In this that he the said Morris Kayser 1st Lieut Co "B" 91st Reg Pa Vols while his Company and Regiment were on Picket duty and while he the same Morris Kayser 1st Lieut Co "B" 91st Pa Vols. was reported sick in camp did take advantage of the absence of his company and Regiment and visited--Philadelphia Pa without permission from his commanding officer and remained absent from the 19th to the 23rd of February 1863 to the detriment and injury of the service and his regiment. This at Camp near Falmouth Va. between the 19th and 23rd days of February 1863

Charge 2nd Positive and willful disobedience of Orders
Specification In this that he the said Morris Kayser 1st Lieut Co. "B" 91st Reg. Pa. Vols when relieved from duty as Acting Adjutant and when ordered by his Commanding Officer to report to Captain A. H. Bowman Co. "B" 91st Reg. Pa. Vols for duty did refuse to obey the order in the following letters and figures to wit Camp near United States Ford Va June 11th 1863. Lieut B. J. Tayman Adjutant 91st Reg. Pa. Vols. Lieutenant, Having been relieved from duty as Acting Adjutant, I therefore most respectfully but positively refuse returning to duty in Co "B" I am Lieutenant, Very Respectfully Yours &c Morris Kayser 1st Lieut Co "B" 91st Reg. Pa Vols. All this while the Reg. was stationed near United States Ford Va on or about June 11th 1863

B. J. Tayman 1st Lieut & Adjt 91st Reg. Pa. Vols.

CorpsCamp near Beverly Ford Va. Aug 22nd 1863 Genl Orders No. 36:
Before a General Court Martial of which Lieut Col. Lewis Ernst 140th Reg. New York Vols. is President convened at Camp of 3rd Brigade 2nd Div. by virtue of Special Orders No. 1 from Hd. Qrs. 2nd Division of July 29th /63 was arraigned and tried:
1st Lieut Morris Kayser Co. "B" 91st Reg. Pa. Vols

Charge 1st Absence without leave Charge 2nd Positive and wilfull disobedience of orders Charge 3rd Absence without leave proceedings;

The court finds the accused guilty on the three charges and sentences him to forfeit all pay and allowances for the period of two months

Extract II The proceedings, findings, and sentence in the case of Lieut Morris Kayser 91st Reg. Pa. Vols. are approved but the sentence is entirely inadequate to the offense of which he is found guilty. In time of War, willful disobedience of Orders merits death; dismissal from the service would be a lenient punishment for such an offence. This Officer is also found guilty of leaving his Regiment and visiting Philadelphia without permission and at a time when the testimony established that the Regiment was on picket duty [Locke uses this phrasing because the court found him not guilty on the specification claiming that he was AWOL when the regiment was on picket duty] The inference is that he took advantage of the absence of his Regiment from Camp to commit and act that he might be found out in, had it been present. The court think all these offences are amply atoned for by depriving Lieut Kayser of a few dollars. Comment is superfluous.

This Officer will resume his sword and duties By Command of Major Genl Locke (Signed) Fred. T. Locke Asst Adjt. Genl Head Quarters 2nd Brig 2nd Div. 5th Army Corps August 1863 "Official" (Signed) A. S. Marvin Jr Asst. Adjt Genl Head Quarters 91st Reg Pa Vols August 25th 1863 "official" B. J. Tayman Adjutant

JEB gets a glass of milk

2010-08-21T19:15:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 21, 1862

A portion of the diary of Jed Hotchkiss, civilian mapmaker for Stonewall Jackson, from Make Me a Map of the Valley: The Civil War Journal of Stonewall Jackson’s Topographer, Jedediah Hotchkiss

"We started from our ground bed at an early hour and went to Gen. J.E.B. Stuart’s Hd. Qrs. at Maj. Barbour’s, and breakfasted with him. ... Found an enemy posted on the river bank with artillery in earth-works; they opened a severe cannonading showing that they intended to defend the R.R. bridge crossing, but we moved up cavalry, infantry and artillery and opposed them while the main body of Jackson’s Corps moved on to Beverly’s (Cunningham’s) Ford where we had a cannonade as well as at the R.R. bridge, simultaneously, Longstreet coming up to the R.R. bridge in time to occupy it, or the front near it, tonight after we had marched on. A portion of our troops crossed the river at Beverly’s Ford and drove the enemy from it, taking some prisoners, gun, etc. ...The cannonading from both sides was quite heavy; the Yankees shelled the wood we were in. I was engaging getting the topography of the country and at a late hour hunted up the General coming in from the front. We spent the night at Mr. Thompson’s, near St. James Church. The General was very weary and much enjoyed a glass of milk I procured for him. There was a heavy shower of rain in the night."

Even Generals need their milk.

Beverly Roberson's Good Day at Brandy Station

2010-08-20T19:43:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 20, 1862

From BG Beverly Robertson's report of the First Battle of Brandy Station:

"...As soon as practicable I ordered a charge, and led the Twelfth Virginia Regiment directly against the center of their line, while the Sixth and Seventh were directed against their flank. The men charged gallantly, and after a brief hand-to-hand contest the enemy was routed with the loss of several killed and a number wounded, capturing 64 prisoners, including several commissioned officers. Our loss was 3 killed and 13 wounded."

Major General JEB Stuart had praise for Robertson for his action on this day. Not so, the following June, when Robertson would report "present":

"General Robertson had cause to be proud of the command which his superior discipline, organization, and drill had brought to the stability of vetreans."

None of the Federal Cavalry units engaged submitted reports, so Federal casualties are unknown. The center of the Union line was atop Fleetwood Hill. Unsuccessfully holding the hill was the 1st New Jersey under Colonel Joesph Karge, and the 2nd New York commanded by Colonel Judson Kilpatrick.

The 6th and 7th Virginia Cavalry, who turned the Federal flanks were commanded by Colonel's Tom Flournoy and 'Grumble' Jones. The 12th, which charged the center was under the leadership of Colonel A. W. Harman.

The postcard shown, from my collection shows the advance of Harman's 12th up the western slope of Fleetwood Hill.

Counting Guns

2010-08-19T07:14:00.000-04:00

Today at Beverly's Ford: August 19, 1863

Head Quarters 91st Reg. Pa Vols. August 19th 1863 "Circular"

Company commanders will in future include the number of Guns (known to be in their commands) in their morning reports and all changes that occur from Loss or gain of men - whether with or without Guns
By order of Joseph H Sinex Lieut Col. Commdg
B. J. Tayman Adjt

So, not only are we counting whom is present in the regiment, but Lt. Col. Sinex now requires how many Guns are in the regiment.

Popularity is not always a good thing

2010-08-18T20:18:00.000-04:00

Today at Kelly's Ford: August 18, 2010

Today's Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star carried the following story concerning the area around Kelly's Ford.

http://www.fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2010/082010/08182010/569213

The Ford is historically significant. It saw roles in many fights that took place in Virginia during the Civil War: Brandy Station, The Battle of Kelly's Ford, Chancellorsville, The Battle of Rappahannock Station and Stoneman's Raid to name a quick few.

The Kelly's Ford area is home to one of Virginia's most profitable mill, a trace from the Rappahannock River Canal is still visible.

History and recreation needs to find common ground. Hopefully the work of the groups like the Remington Community Partnership, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, the C.F. Phelps Wildlife Management Area, VDOT and other parties interested with this location will find a solution quickly and economically sound

Another Unique Brandy Station Link

2010-08-17T21:00:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 17, 2010

I saw this pass over the Internet yesterday, and then had two friends forward to me. According to this CNN story, they have found the stockade of Camp Lawton, which was outside Millen, Georgia.

Again, what is the connection with Brandy Station.

Well, both Brandy Station and Camp Lawton hosted on Robert Knox Sneden. Sneden was a private who prepared maps from III Corps Commander William 'Blinky' French. French used the Miller House, which sat on Fleetwood Hill (at least two photos of the house exist) as his headquarters.

French picked an opportune time to be away, the night of November 26/27. Sneden, however remained. You see, the night of November 26/27 was the night Major John S. Mosby would come a calling on the Miller House. Sneden and others became prisoners; and just because he could, Mosby crossed the O&A tracks and attacked a parked wagon train that consisted of about 200 wagons.

Back to Camp Lawton. Robert Sneden was escorted eventually to Richmond where he was held for some months. Robert, unfortunately, got the grand tour. He also would be held at Andersonville, Salisbury, NC, Savannah, Georgia, Charleston, SC and you guessed it Camp Lawton.

The books "Eye of the Storm," and "Images from the Storm" contain drawings made by Sneden of his prison experiences to include his depictions of Camp Lawton.

The link to the CNN story is below: http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/08/14/georgia.civil.war.camp/?hpt=T2

Dillingham AK - Brandy Station VA

2010-08-16T17:57:00.001-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 16, 2010

Former Alaska Senator Ted Stevens, an four others died as they were heading to a fishing expedition in western Alaska on August 9, 2010. The airport they were to land is located in Dillingham, Alaska. Believe it or not, there is a link between Dillingham, Alaska and Brandy Station, Virginia

Dillingham is named after William Paul Dillingham, a Texas Senator at the turn of the last century. Dillingham toured Alaska before it became a territory with his Senate subcommittee in 1903. The former post office (and United States Signal Corps weather station) at Nushagak was renamed Dillingham for the Senator. The subcommittee was investigating conditions following the Alaska Gold Rush of 1898. Dillingham was in Alaska before it became a territory.

So, what is the relationship with Dillingham Alaska and Brandy Station Virginia?

William Paul had an older brother. His name was Edwin. Edwin served in the 10th Vermont Infantry during the Civil War. In March and April of 1864, Edwin was in Brandy Station. He had just been paroled from the POW camp in Salisbury, North Carolina. After his return to the army, he was tasked to support the provost marshals in Brandy Station. One of the Provo's task -- process and escort the female (wives and family members) visitors to the camps where the army lay.

On the walls of the Graffiti House are a series of seven drawings, done by an unknown hand, probably a soldier from Vermont. One of the drawings depict two women with the notation "Turned over to Capt. Dillingham" Yes we are sure it is Edwin. There is other evidence in the room that confirms this fact. Edwin would rise to command the 1oth Vermont, and would die on the field near Winchester, in September 1864.

William Paul Dillingham, by the way, never set foot in Dillingham, Alaska.

My grateful thanks to my friend, Richard Deardoff, a history teacher at Kettle Run High School, Fauquier County, who posed the question to me if there was any link between the two. Thank you Richard.

Five minutes' notice

2010-08-15T09:06:00.000-04:00

From the diary of Hospital Steward John N. Henry, in the 49th New York Infantry (Third Brigade, Second Division, Sixth Corps).

"An order came to pack up and be ready to move at five minutes’ notice. [I] went to work immediately [and] kept busy until dark when I drove the last nail in the large box and leaving nothing but a small box to mail at the last moment."

The 49th was camped about four miles south of Warrenton. The 91st Pennsylvania (Second Brigade, Second Division, Fifth Corps), camped along Beverly Ford, was also told to be prepared to move immediately and have three days rations prepared.

Naturally, neither unit went anywhere. Someone should do a study of how many times a command (of any size) was ordered to prepare to move at 'moments notice' or in five (or thirty) minutes, and they just sat there. Hurry up and wait, it has been the motto of the military for centuries.

Henry's diary is found in "Turn Them Out Like a Mule", edited by John Michael Priest

A little ice please...

2010-08-14T16:03:00.000-04:00

Today at Kelly's Ford: August 14, 1863

From the Albany Evening Journal
Ice For the Army of the Potomac – John Kelly, after whom Kelly’s Ford is named, and many other residents of Warrenton, Sulpher Springs and along the river bank , not supposing that Union troops would spend another summer on the Rappahannock, last winter laid a large supply of ice, and are troops are now using the valuable commodity. Every ice-house is honored with a guard, and each regiment receives a small piece every day. The owners have exhausted every argument to convince the commanding General the frozen water is not an article liable to be seized under a civilized system of warfare, but without success.

As suspected, ice is contraband and confiscated as a necessity of war.

Order of the Day

2010-08-13T16:38:00.000-04:00

Today at Beverly Ford: August 13, 1863

The order of the day for the 91st Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment, camped near Beverly Ford

The following Calls will be observed in the Command until further Orders
Reveille at 0500
Breakfast Call at 0515
Drill at 0550
Recall from Drill at 0700
Surgeons Call at 0715
1st Sergts Reports at 0730
Fatigue Call at 0800
Guard Mounting at 0900
Comms'd Officers School at 1000
Dinner Roll Call at 1200
Battalion drill at 1630
Recall from Drill at 1740
Dress parade at 1800
Tattoo at 2000
Taps at 2030

The Army of the Potomac has settled down into routine, the campaign is over.

"All is quiet here, except when a little picket fire"

2010-08-11T20:29:00.000-04:00

Today 'on picket': August 11, 1863

Dear Sister, I thought I would write a few lines to you as I have not much of anything to say today. The brigade is here on picket now. It will be the regiment's turn to go on post tomorrow. All is quiet here, except when a little picket fire. Father has had a letter today and, as he was not here, I took the liberty to read it. I was glad to hear from home. I think the boys are first-rate with the haying, but I think it would pay as well to hire some as it is getting late in the season. It is very warm here now. I think it is the warmest weather I have felt in my life. Father is at Washington now. I am going to send $10 in this letter and shall send some more some other time. I am going to send Ansel a song that one of the boys in the company got up. As for news, I have not got any, but I must close. So good-bye for the present. Your brother, Dimon Hamilton, l Me. Cav. Co. F."

Dimon would become a prisoner on March 1, 1864 and be held in Richmond, probably at Belle Island, in the James River. Dimon Hamilton survives the war.

By what is says in the letter, it appears that Dimon's father was attached to the 1st Maine in some way, but he is not listed on the regiments roster. But as you read, Dimon has no qualms about reading his fathers mail. As with just about all correspondence and diary entries, the soldiers comment on the heat.

"Our horses are nearly all broken down"

2010-08-10T19:09:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 10, 1863

Portion of a letter written by Lt. Samuel Willliam Newman Feamster of the 14th Virginia Cavalry

"We have a pretty hard time here, we are on duty all the time 16 of our men are on Provo Guard in Culpeper CH. Gen Stuart is not willing to let us leave, I think the Brig[ade] will all soon be gone if they keep on living as they have been doing. Our horses are nearly all broken down. My horse is gotten quite poor & I got him reared [sent to the rear]. We haven’t had any fighting for a few days not since I wrote you, but we are lying close to the Yankees all the time. I would like to have another horse but it is not worth while to bring a fat horse her for the way we have to treat them they would soon be as poor as the ones we have. The order is whem our horses break down we have them to send back & take to foot."

From the Regimental History of the 14th Virginia Cavalry, by Robert Driver Jr..

It should be noted that two months prior, JEB Stuart and his cavalry were at their zenith. Now, after two months of near constant activity from Culpeper to Gettysburg and back, plus the fighting that took place on the 1st and 4th of August, the mounted arm of the Army of Northern Virginia is broken down and in serious need of refit.

"Providence has kindly blessed our arms"

2010-08-09T20:07:00.000-04:00

Today at Cedar Mountain: August 9, 1862

A portion of a letter from Jed. Hotchkiss to his wife. It can be found on UVA's Valley of the Shadow web site.

My Dr. Wife:
"... Then we were up by day the next morning, poking along through towards Culpeper C.H. driving the Yankee picket before us, and camping along the road for several miles last night -- in fact reaching some 6 miles, the Division of Gen. A.P. Hill being in the rear. The enemy attempted to fall upon our rear last night, with a strong cavalry force, but they "caught a Tartar," finding us ready for them, & were repulsed, we taking some 15 prisoners, at one point, and they attacked at another point & met the same fate -- we have taken some 350 of Pope's Cavalry, now, some officers that we shall hold as hostages for the treatment of our people by Pope -- ...I resume my writing on a hill top, in full view of several thousand of the enemy cavalry that have been drawn up all day in the hot sun, -- while we are maneuvering to take them, have been sitting round here all the evening -- trying to find out the enemy's position 4 P.M. the battle has opened -- ... -- it is about 6 miles west of Culpeper C.H. -- Sunday 6 A.M. -- the firing has opened again We had a bloody day yesterday -- as desperate a fight as I ever saw -- but we drove the enemy away from the battle field, took 12 leads of ammunition, 1 large piece of artillery, some 400 prisoners, one Brig. Gen. & a good many officers. The fight continued until 9 P.M. Our Gen. Winder was killed & we had a good many others killed & wounded -- We lost a good many men & killed & wounded large numbers of the enemy most of which they left on the battle field.... Providence has kindly blessed our arms & spared most of us -- May He still be near us.
I will write this evening May God bless you all
Your Aff husband
Jed. Hotchkiss

Hotchkiss is of course referring to the Battle of Cedar (or Slaughter's) Mountain. Jackson's victory here in southern Culpeper County is considered the beginning of the Second Manassas Campaign.

General Winder is Charles Sidney Winder, a native Marylander. He died while in command of the Stonewall Brigade. Winder was working the guns of an artillery battery, and not with his command, when a federal shell ripped through the left side of his body. He lingered for a time, conscious of his fate and was lucid, talking of his family. Winder died so quietly that according to Lt. McHenry Howard, "you could scarcely note the time of death."

A Guest at Elkwood

2010-08-08T04:00:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 8, 1861

From the Richmond Daily Dispatch

"Gen. E. Kirby Smith, of Florida.
Brandy Station, Culpeper co., Va.,
August 5, 1861.
Messrs Editors: I have the gratification to inform the readers of your valuable paper, and the friends of this distinguished and gallant officer, that his case is entirely hopeful, and that in a short time he will be ready to enter upon the discharge of his duties. His injury, though extensive, and inflicted by a large-size Minnie ball, was strictly a flesh wound. It grazed the spinal column, passing between the processes, coursing through the muscles of the neck, and passing out near the clavicle or collar-bone. He has suffered but little pain, has been cheerful at all times, and the wound has done better than usual, although his escape is to the writer a miracle. This gallant and accomplished officer bore a conspicuous part in the ever-memorable battle of Bull Run on the 21st July. He may be termed the Brucher in that glorious victory for the South. He commanded Elzy's brigade, which was the first to turn the tide of battle in our favor, causing the minions of Lincoln's invading forces to retreat like hares before our gallant army. The General was wounded when in the act of turning the enemy's right wing, which was endeavoring to flank us on our left, and just as he was giving the order by a rapid march to cut off and take as prisoners several thousand of the enemy. The God of Battles, who smiled upon us on that memorable occasion, has spared this noble and chivalric son of the South for future brilliant achievements in behalf of the great principles of constitutional liberty. The General is at the hospitable mansion of our esteemed county man, Richard H Cunningham, Esq., where he receives every kindness and attention."

Culpeper became a center for caring for the wounded Confederate soldiers following First Manassas. Most of the wounded stayed in a hospital that was built in downtown Culpeper. Kirby was recovering at Elkwood, home of Richard Hoop Cunningham, which was close to to confluence of the Hazel and Rappahannock Rivers. Elkwood would be destroyed a year later by Union soldiers under John Pope as he evacuated Culpeper in the opening stages of the Second Manassas Campaign. Another 'hero' of the fight, Major Roberdeau Wheat, was at Bellville in Brandy Station. Bellville is now named Beauregard, whose name was suggested by Wheat to honor the victor of Manassas.

August the 7th 1863

2010-08-07T13:51:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 7, 1863

Upstairs at the Graffiti House, in Brandy Station there are three rooms. The smallest of the three has the least amount of observable graffiti. The reason is due to paint covering the plaster, not lack of graffiti. There are hints throughout the room of the treasure that awaits.

On an interior wall, just above is the paint line, written in pencil is:

August the 7th 1863

Are there more words below? We do not yet know. However, just to the left of this piece of graffiti is a drawing of what appears to be the sun. As I have noted in earlier posts this month, August was in a word oppressive. The Brandy Station Foundation anxiously awaits the next opportunity to have a conservator return to the Graffiti House.

We believe the graffiti was created by Confederate cavalrymen. In August 1863, the opposing forces in northern Virginia have pretty much settled down in and around Culpeper County following the Gettysburg Campaign. The pickets for the Rebels were posted on and near Fleetwood Heights, and the Federals not far away to the north and east, but on the south side of the Rappahannock.

So, it seems we have a mystery. We know when the graffiti was created, but we do not know by whom, why, or even if there is anything else that our mystery man from August the 7th 1863 is willing to share.

Richmond Reports on the August 1 fight

2010-08-06T17:00:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 6, 1863

The Richmond Daily Dispatch carried a story of the fighting that took place on August 1st. Portions of the article follow.

Friday night last a force of the enemy's cavalry, estimated at three brigades, crossed, or were reported to be crossing, the Rappahannock at Kelly's Ford. Hampton's cavalry brigade were on picket at the time, their line extending from Kelly's to Beverly's Ford.--By morning the entire Yankee force engaged were across, and began a bold advance towards Brandy Station. Their force greatly outnumbering ours, Hampton's brigade commenced falling back slowly, the pickets having been previously driven by the enemy back to the main body. After falling back a mile or more, the brigade halted and checked the enemy's advance for a considerable time. The enemy's movements were covered, in a measure, by woods, of which they availed themselves; but whenever the opportunity and ground favored, were frequently and most gallantly charged by our regiments and driven back.

The day thus passed with successive skirmishing, fighting, and charging, until between four and five o'clock P. M., when within about a mile and a half of Culpeper two regiments of infantry from Anderson's division — the 12th Va., of Mahone's brigade, and the 2d Miss, of Posey's brigade — were thrown out as skirmishers, and advanced to the support of our cavalry. The Yankees perceiving these supports coming up, "about-faced" and "skedaddled" across an open field, or other open space of ground, in our front. The pursuit was continued until the enemy escaped out of sight, and, it is believed, recrossed the river that night.

We had not more than one battery of artillery engaged, which poured at interval a number of rounds of grape and canister into the enemy's ranks with great effect. Six or eight of our artillerymen were wounded, three of them mortally. The Yankees had at least two batteries engaged; but most of the casualties among our men were caused by their sharpshooters, their artillery on this occasion having been an ineffective auxiliary. It is alleged that our artillery would have done greater execution but for the deficiency of rifle ammunition provided.

Gen. Hampton being yet disabled from returning to the field by his wound, the brigade, as you have probably learned, was commanded and admirably handled by Col. Baker, of the 1st North Carolina regiment. Our loss is, at this writing, unknown, but will probably be covered by 75 or 100 killed and wounded.

South of the Rappahannock

2010-08-05T21:07:00.000-04:00

Today along the Rappahannock River: August 5, 1863

A portion of a letter from Sgt. William H. Shelton, Battery L, 1st New York Light Artillery, to his cousin.

"...We are in line of Battle; we are outside the outer line of breastwork... we are only nine miles from Culpeper where the enemy are believed to be in force. We are in the south side of the river thanks to the enterprise of our gallant cavalry & the support of a miniature pontoon of eight boats...at Rappahannock Station,.. were ordered to throw up breastworks in front of the pieces & obeyed ... our infantry failed to make its appearance. The sun blazed down...and we abandoned the works...
was particularly struck with the number of ladies in mourning. I am confident that two thirds of all the ladies I saw in W[arrenton] were in black. Any quantity of quiet elderly ladies and very pretty young ones appeared upon the veranda & in the yards. I suppose they consider us brutes..."

Many believe that the 'Dare Mark Line', otherwise known as the Rappahannock River, was the boundary between the contending armies in Northern Virginia in the summer of 1863. Not the case. The Federals were firmly placed south of the Rappahannock throughout August and September.

Sargent Sheldon comments on the weather, as the heat continued unabated for some period of time. It is also interesting that he notes the numbers of ladies in black in the town of Warrenton.

The war of course has taken a dreadful toll on the region. The economy is devastated by the armies constantly moving through and destroying farms and fences and killing livestock. But the emotional cost the families suffered must of been incredible. Long gone are those heady days in 1861 -- and the grim realities of war and occupation have settled into Northern Culpeper County and most of Fauquier County.

Skirmish at Brandy Station

2010-08-04T17:17:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 4, 1863

Today is the last day of the Gettysburg Campaign. Below are a few excerpts that I have come across describing this last action.

9th Virginia Cavalry
Northern advance from Rappahannock Bridge brought on a fight near Miller’s [Fleetwood] Hill. The 9th was under artillery fire, with light casualties.

17th Pennsylvania Cavalry
Companies F and M, 17th PA Cavalry march to Kelly’s Ford and camp across the river after being relieved of picket duty near Brandy Station.

34th Battalion Virginia Cavalry
advance before 5:30pm and engage Federal forces in a skirmish at Brandy Station. The brigade consisted of 2,000 troops and six guns [Whitworths and 12 pounders]. The Confederate line was said to be so strong that it could not be penetrated without a fight; however, after driving the Federal pickets about 1,500 yards, the Southerners were in turn driven nearly two miles when the Federal Division came up. The Confederates were pressed so hard, they could not even form.

A soldier in the 107th New York Infantry
I can hear very distinctly the belching cannon. Soon we will have an invitation to the celebration. The firing comes nearer and nearer. We are expecting orders every minute.'

Mooreman's Lynchburg Battery
"I had the hottest arty fight I have had for some time. The Yankees had a four gun battery playing on my one gun (Napoleon) and literally ploughed up the ground around my piece – every man at the gun was struck and three of them badly wounded – still we held our ground until a shell struck the wheel of the carriage, disabling the piece entirely – we then had to withdraw."

12th Virginia Infantry
Union Cavalry…led by General John Buford, crossed the Rappahannock and engaged Stuart near Brandy Station. Mahone’s Brigade marched from Culpeper to Brandy, six miles, at the double quick in intense heat. The 12th, near Brandy, emerged from a woods, caught a part of the Union cavalry by surprise, and delivered a telling volley that emptied many saddles.

The fight is listed as a skirmish, like so many others during the later period of the war. Of course, if the 'skirmish' took place in August 1861, it would have been a great battle. But other real battles have taken place, most recent of course was Gettysburg. And because of Gettysburg, and others, this fight is just a footnote in history.

The sources for the Virgina units involved come from the Virginia Regimental Series, the 107th NY letter I saw years ago on ebay and the 17th Pennsylvania report is from the Supplemental OR, Series 69

Confused Reports of this Fight

2010-08-03T05:15:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 3, 1863

From the Richmond Dispatch:

Information received from Culpeper county by the train last evening furnishes us an account of a pretty severe cavalry fight in Culpeper county, in the immediate neighborhood of the old battlefield of Brandy Station, on Saturday last.

We could only obtain confused reports of this fight, but from these we gather that the enemy, in a force consisting of some three brigades of cavalry, advanced on our line of pickets in the early part of the day. The picket force was composed of the 12th Virginia regiment, Gen. Mahone's brigade. This force resisted the enemy until Hampton's cavalry came up, when the battle was joined between our cavalry and that of the enemy. During some portions of the engagement the fighting is represented to have been very severe. In the early part of the fight Capt. E. W. Branch, commanding the Grays, from this city, was killed, and his body brought to the city by the Central train last evening.

Hampton's Legion sustained the greater part of the loss inflicted upon us. Col. Black was shot through the hand with a Minnie ball; Col. Baker's arm was shattered, and Col. Young received a severe wound in the breast. The Legion is now commanded by a Lieutenant Colonel. Our cavalry fought them a distance of six miles, gradually falling back upon our infantry supports.

The enemy, however, did not afford these supports an opportunity to engage in the fight, but retired as soon as they came up. Our loss was some fifteen killed and from sixty to seventy wounded. The loss of the enemy was not known by any one with whom we conversed. It is not improbable that this light is the immediate forerunner of an engagement on a much larger scale.

A funeral notice was also printed in today's Dispatch:
The funeral services of Capt E. W Branch, Richmond Grays 12th regiment Va volunteers; who was killed in a skirmish near Brandy Station August 1st, will take place this afternoon at 6 o'clock at the Monumental Church.

A hot Sunday

2010-08-02T19:43:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 2, 1863

A couple of diary entries which touch on the fighting on August 1. The first is from Jed. Hotchkiss and the second from Joseph A. Waddell, a quartermaster in Stauton. Hotchkisses comments can be found in "Made me a Map of the Valley" and Waddle's is from University of Virginia's, website: Valley of the Shadow.

Hotchkiss:
We were obliged to work to-day to copy the maps lent us by Col. Smith, and were very busy all day and worked late last night. It continues to be very hot. The enemy advanced towards Culpeper C.H. and we had a little fight with them, some of the first or third corps on our side. We had 15 killed and a number wounded and killed and wounded quite a number of the enemy.

Waddell:
Oppressively hot to-day...We hear of a cavalry fight at Brandy Station, in Culpeper, on yesterday, the enemy being driven back several miles, with a loss on our side of 200 killed and wounded. … Gen. Lee's expedition into Pennsylvania and Morgan's into Indiana and Ohio have helped Lincoln to recruit the ranks of his army. I thought [Reverend] Mr. [John] Miller's sermon (I call it so by courtesy) rather calculated to depress. He took a discouraging view of our affairs at this time, so far as we can judge by sight; but having faith in God we have a right to feel hopeful. Almost too "spiritual" for the mass of his audience.

Both complain of heat. August would be an oppressive month with soldiers in blue, gray and the civilians complaining. There is also quite a difference between 15 and 200. The numbers are in between.

A quick look into Charles Wainwright's diary (had it here in front of me) tells too of the heat. He mentions it three times in the day's entry: "An intensely hot day with a great deal to do"..."why is it that every hot spell Sunday is always the hottest day it in..."..."The sun came down pelting all the time, and not a breath of air."

The Battle of Brandy Station: August 1, 1863

2010-08-01T19:58:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: August 1, 1863

From the history of the First & Second Stuart Horse Artillery, by Robert Moore, II.

"Shortly before dawn on August 1 Hart’s battery, along with at least a section of McGregor's battery, attached to Hampton’s brigade (temporarily under Colonel Pierce M. B. Young), was up shortly after dawn. General John Buford's First Calvary Division had crossed the Rappahannock and was heading for Brandy station. Moving his brigade northeast along the railroad tracks in one of the hottest days of that summer, Young drew up his men perpendicular to the Orange and Alexandria tracks. The batteries of the horse artillery were placed on the left of the line, just north of the tracks. Young opened the battle with his horse artillery, but the Confederate gunners were hard-pressed keep up a steady return fire. When preferred commence the attack, the confederates were driven almost Culpepper, at one point Yankees began to close in around Young's point's. In a desperate attempt to break out of a tight position, young called upon the horse artillery, which opened with canister at less than 50 yards, allowing temporary relief and a chance at escape. The first section from the Ashlee battery was also involved in the action. Shreve recalled the day “... a large body of federal Calvary crossed the Rappahannock and attacked us, and pressed us back slowly towards Culpepper court house. The day was very hot. At a point about a mile south of Brandy station, been pressed very closely, and in danger of being overwhelmed by numbers, both in front and on the left flank, we gave in canister and very short range. The order was given, “a double charge,” and for the first time (according to my memory) we loaded a double charge, and let them have it. This repulsed them and give us time to “limber to the rear.” “on nearing Culpepper, some infantry [from Anderson's division] came to our help, and the tide of battle was reversed and the enemy driven across the river. We found on the field of conflict, after the foe had retreated, one of our men (Private Lacking), who had been badly wounded, whom the enemy cared for. They had erected over him a temporary shelter, and had kindly administered to his wants, as best they could. Our Lieutenant Burwell was also wounded in this battle. The writer accompanied him to a private house and Culpepper, remained with him that night, and saw him board a train the next morning, bidding him “bon voyage.” He seemed very hopeful of getting well, and returning to assume, but alas; we never saw him more, for at his home, near Millwood, Clark County, he died”.

The fighting was general throughout the day. Pushed back toward Culpeper, Confederate infantry made it's presence known (and felt) before Buford retired.

The drawing was made by Alfred Waud, on August 1. The location is a small hill just west of the town of Brandy Station, very close to the home Beauregard. Waud was able to make this drawing, at a location miles from Beverly Ford, deep into Culpeper County -- on the day of the fight. He must be considered as one of the original 'embedded journalists'.

Most everyone is aware of the Battle of Brandy Station on June 9, 1863. It is the opening action of the Gettysburg Campaign. Very few know the Gettysburg Campaign ended on the same fields. Fighting took place in Culpeper County on August 1 & 4. These were the final battles of the Gettysburg Campaign. The August 1st fight is one of the unknown battles of the Civil War, overshadowed by the larger fight two months earlier.

As for fighting on Fleetwood Hill, at least twelve separate and distinct actions took place on that piece of American soil between August 20, 1862 and November 8, 1863. And I am not county John Mosby's visit on November 26, 1863.

Is Fleetwood Hill the most fought over piece of ground in America? I do not know for a fact, but I challenge anyone to find another location.

A move to the Rappahannock

2010-07-31T09:16:00.000-04:00

Today at Warrenton Junction; July 31, 1863

From the diary of Colonel Charles S. Wainwright

We have now been in this spot for nearly a week, so I suspect no one will be sorry to move out of it tomorrow, which we have orders to do in the direction of Rappahannock Station. The weather is really warm, hot one you may call, and this low spot very close, with the woods very close. The whole army army I believe is to move up to the line of the river.

The army would indeed move up to the Rappahannock; and while some would disagree, I state that the last phase of the Gettysburg campaign is about to begin.

Washin' my drawers

2010-07-30T22:47:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: July 30, 1863

Another entry from the diary of Private Edwin Weist of the 20th Indiana

Camp near Warrenton. Mailed a letter to Anna this morning. The day has been pleasant with the appearance of rain. I was about two miles from camp this morning in search of du berries. The officers are ordered to make out a requisition for camp or garrison equipage. The first Brigade changed camp this morning. The reg. was inspected by Brigade inspection. I washed a pair of drawers to day in the creek was pretty hard work. About 11. o.clock we moved camp moving about forty feet and went into camp by column of Divisions. Had some heavy shower of rain this afternoon. Commenced a letter to cousin Carrie.

Yes - Edwin had a busy day.
-Mailed a letter
-Search for du berries
-change camp
-regimental inspection
-washed his drawers
-dealt with a summer shower
-wrote a letter

Such is the life of a private.

Resting and refitting the cavalry

2010-07-29T16:21:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: July 29, 1863

The 2nd Virginia Cavalry Regiment's commander, Colonel Thomas Munford establishes a horse pasture for the broken-down horses in the regiment, in order to restore them to duty. He did this in spite of orders from Stuart to the contrary. The horses of the sick and wounded men were kept there also, until the men returned.

As we all know, the Gettysburg Campaign was brutal on the Confederate horseflesh, and Munford would do what he could to reconstitute those horses (and men) who could be brought back into active service

Back in Fauquier

2010-07-27T16:48:00.001-04:00

Today in Brandy Station: July 27, 1863

From the diary of Private Edwin Weist, 20th Indiana Infantry

"Camp near Warrenton. It has rained some little to day. Col. Berdan has placed guards all around the camp and does not allow anyone to pass out even for water without a pass. I wrote a letter to father to day. We had word day before yesterday while marching through Gen. Ward that Indiana had captured Morgan and his whole force. We have three cheers for the gallant old state and its gallant Governor."

The Army of Northern Virginia has been followed down the Shenandoah and Loudoun Valley's by the Army of the Potomac and, crossing the 'Dare mark line' of the Rappahannock River, is settling into Culpeper and Orange Counties.

The Army of the Potomac, is filtering down into Fauquier County. The 20th Indiana, part of the First Division of the Third Corps, encamped around Warrenton, Virginia. Their stay however, would be short. On July 31, they would travel by foot, train and boat -- to New York City, to quell the draft riots which erupted in that city. The 20th Indiana would be in New York for two and a half months.

As for John Hunt Morgan, well his stay up north would not be as long as some had hoped.

Presque Isle

2010-07-26T15:11:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: July 26, 2010

As it appeared in today's Culpeper Star Exponent.

A peek inside Presque Isle

By Rhonda Simmons Published: July 26, 2010
Sitting atop a grassy knoll near the confluence of the Rappahannock and Hazel Rivers in eastern Culpeper County, a stately brick house has stood the test of time.
The 19th century 4,500-square-foot Federal-style house accommodated Union head-quarters during the American Civil War and generations of local families over the years.
Built in 1813, Presque Isle features original hardwood floors, several fireplaces, four bedrooms, a renovated kitchen, ornate plaster moldings, a basement and an attic.
“This home is a historical marvel. It’s not only unique in its presentation in Culpeper County, this house would be unique and a rare gem wherever it’s at,” said historian Clark “Bud” Hall, president of the Brandy Station Foundation.
Homeowners Alan and Phyllis Johnson of Orange County opened their historic home to the public on Sunday for a fundraising event.
As part of the Museum of Culpeper History’s 10-year-anniversary on Main Street, a total of 130 guests gathered on the house’s manicured lawn and listened to Mountain Remedy during the Picnic at Presque Isle.
“They’re doing this as a gift to the museum and we are doing this as a thank you to all of the members in the community,” said museum executive director Lee Langston-Harrison.
The menu included hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans, cole slaw, fresh fruit, pasta salad, lemonade and iced tea.
Located at the end of a three-mile gravel road, the 135-acre plantation includes a pond, five wells, three natural springs, two brick buildings used as slave quarters, an old blacksmith shop and several rental properties.
Planter Alan Johnson, who purchased the property in 2003, also uses the land to grow soybeans.
“We’ve been working on the farm for all of these years and you never finish,” said Alan Johnson. “The millwork, floors and doors are all original. It’s a unique place.”
The couple tried to keep the house in its original condition except for a few upgrades.
“It’s just so unique to keep it the way it was,” said Phyllis Johnson. “So many times people buy places and you don’t even recognize them because they’ve added so much stuff and changed things around.”

History of the home

The property actually dates back to the archaic period, according to Hall, who served at the event’s guest speaker.
“This was determined by an archeological (study),” said Hall, a close friend of the Johnsons. “This was the home of prehistoric peoples. That’s been documented by finds on the property particularly the spear points.”
Manahoac Indians, a Siouan tribe, also occupied the property, Hall added.
“They were hunters and gatherers and they camped in this area,” he said. “It’s interesting that their archeological remnants were shown to be exactly where the prehistoric camps were. They built on top of each other.”
Judge Daniel Grinnan of Fredericksburg built the house during the early 1800s and completed it in 1813.
By the Civil War, the Major family was living in the home.“What happened here during the war was profound,” Hall explained. “You didn’t see brick homes in Culpeper County during that era. People came from miles around to visit this home. This is easily the most remote house in the county. Therefore, it has always proved to be very mysterious to people.”
During the war, Presque Isle frequently changed hands between Union and Confederate control.
The property is also tactically located between Welford’s Ford on the Hazel River and Freeman’s Ford on the Rappahannock River.
“This house is situated militarily in a profoundly strategic sense in the center of two of the most important Civil War crossings. It was bound to incur Civil War activity and in truth it would.”
While the Majors family still lived in the home, Union Gen. Emory Upton and his soldiers occupied the home from December 1863 until May 1864, according to Hall.
“Just because the Yankees showed up didn’t mean they were leaving,” Hall said. “All credit to the Major family for staying in the home. Because they didn’t vacate the home, the Yankees could not tear the house apart. But if you had to turn a house over to somebody, you’d want it to be Emory Upton. He was a great guy.”
After the war, Upton was appointed commandant of West Point and published several books regarding military tactics.
“He was a very distinguished guy,” Hall said.

Want to help save a battlefield?

The Civil War Preservation Trust is trying to protect 782 acres of hallowed ground where the Battle of Brandy Station ensued.
Organizers are requesting donations of $85.68 per acre through the Help Save the Brandy Station Battlefield campaign.
The two tracts of land that make up this new effort are considered highly significant to this particular campaign that started June 9, 1863.
According to historians, the northernmost tract is where Gen. John Buford’s Union cavalry fought against Rooney Lee’s Confederate troops. The southernmost tract features land where Union cavalry under Col. Thomas Devin’s leadership clashed with Gen. Wade Hampton’s Confederate soldiers.
“There is no piece of Piedmont plain in Culpeper County that witnessed more infantry and cavalry action than this property.”
The CWPT’s goal is to raise $67,000.
To donate, visit civilwar.org.

CWPT initiative on the Brandy Station Battlefield

2010-07-23T20:21:00.001-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: July 23, 2010

Today, the Civil War Preservation Trust announced an effort to raise $67,000 to secure 782 acres of land on the Brandy Station Battlefield. The money will be used to pay costs of creating conservation easements on two separate properties.

What this will do is allow the owners tax credits. In return the land, no matter who owns it, cannot be improved (houses, etc.). In other words, it remains pristine. As is.

If you could place a trooper, be he blue or gray down on this acreage, he would be challenged to know what year it was. (OK, he may see cars and airplanes - but you get my point)

Please visit the CWPT website: www.civilwar.org/brandystation10

Beautiful Downtown Fairfax Courthouse

2010-07-15T19:09:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: July 15, 1862

No this image wasn't taken on July 15, but I wanted you to have a look at what the Federals might have seen as they came into Fairfax Courthouse in the summer of 1862.

Yes Fairfax. The first town in Culpeper County was originally called this. Many Civil War maps show the name Fairfax Courthouse rather than Culpeper. According to Eugene Scheel's book, Culpeper, A Virginia County's History Through 1920, the Virginia General Assembly established the town of 'Fairfax' rather than the traditionally accepted name of Culpeper Court House on February 22, 1759. However, the name was rarely used except in official documents.

The photo is from 1862, probably early August, by Timothy O'Sullivan. The Courthouse is plainly visible, when it was on the the corner of Davis and Coleman (now Main) Street. In the background is the Baptist Church. The wartime courthouse would be removed and the Courthouse was moved to its current site on Davis and West Street in July 1873.

You Burnt What?

2010-07-13T17:53:00.001-04:00

Today at Rapidan Station: July 13, 1862

There is a interesting exchange of correspondence found in the Official Records, tells of an incident concerning the Orange and Alexandria Railroad Bridge across the Rapidan.

In a message from Major General Nathaniel Banks to Colonel George Ruggles, Banks reports that ..."Major [James M.] Deems [First] Maryland Cavalry has returned this morning [July 14] from the front. He [Deems] reports that the party sent to burn small railroad bridges by mistake of orders destroyed the Rapidan Bridge."

Commander of the Army of Virgina, John Pope responded: "I regret very much indeed that any orders were given to burn any railroad bridges, great or small. The object of your movement was to preserve the road [referring to the O&A], not to destroy an portion of it. We are advancing and shall continue to advance, and the roads must be preserved for our use....By injuring them yo are obstructing our own movements, not those of the enemy. Be particular therefore to impress positively upon all your officers that they are to repair the roads in advance, not to destroy them. If you have a corps of workmen set them to work immediately to rebuild the small bridges that you have destroyed as rapidly as possible."

By reading Pope's message, you get a very distinct impression that he does not what any bridges burned or the railroad harmed in any way.

Hmm, (with tongue in cheek) I wonder if this is the reason Pope never advanced beyond Culpeper toward Richmond.

Occupy in Force

2010-07-12T18:53:00.001-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: July 12, 1862

From the Official Records

To Major General N[athaniel] P. Banks

The major-general commanding desires me to state that the position he desired and designated for your right flank was a point about 8 miles east of Sperryville. He still desires you to take that position, if not already occupied. It would be even better to have your right resting not five miles from Sperryville....

General Pope does not desire a simple cavalry reconnaissance toward Culpeper. He wants that to be occupied in force, and directs that General Hatch take up his headquarters there, throwing out strong cavalry pickets at least 20 miles in the direction of Gordonsville and Richmond...

George D. Ruggles
Colonel and Chief of Staff

General Banks responded:
...Orders were issued today to send back all surplus stores and for ten days' rations. Will will march the 14th instant toward Sperryville. General [John] Hatch understands he is to occupy Culpeper as his headquarters. He has the entire cavalry force, a full battery, and the infantry he desired, and will scout the country in advance as far as he is able.

And so begins the march toward the Battle of Cedar Mountain.

Been gone, coming back

2010-07-11T18:09:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: July 11, 2010

Yes it has been a while, and for that, I apologize. Unfortunately I have to work for a living and that has greatly impacted my spare time when I am home. This unfortunate condition will abate in a week or two.

Yesterday, I along with Brandy Station Foundation President Bud Hall spent the day with members of the National Press Club. They toured the sites on the battlefield, hiking to Buford's Knoll, walking a portions of the fields of St. James and standing on the crest of Fleetwood Heights, as Bud spoke of the stirring events that took place there. After lunch, the NPC spent about 45 minutes at the Graffiti House. Finally, as time was short, they were driven to various sites in the Stevensburg area, a section of the battlefield that is not given it's proper due.

As the day ended, the President of the NPC congratulated the Brandy Station Foundation "on the fine job BSF is doing in "protecting the interests of America's greatest cavalry battlefield."

Today, I was at the Graffiti House again, this time as a Docent, speaking with those who came to see what the house has to offer. It is always an extreme pleasure to tell the story of the house and the people who past through to our guests.

Battle of Jacks Shop Lecture and Tour

2010-07-01T19:54:00.000-04:00

Today in Madison County: upcoming event alert: July 14, 2010

Yes the battle took place on September 22, but a lecture and tour of the fight will take place on July 14 (Bastille Day). The event is sponsored by The Madison Historical Society and the Madison Conservation Friends.

Tour of the Battle of Jack's Shop
Wednesday, July 14, 2010 9:30am Bethel United Methodist Church in Rochelle

The battle of Jack's Shop took place on 22 September in 1863. The contest was not only the biggest battle of the Civil War to occur on Madison County soil but also one of the largest cavalry engagements of the war. Fought from dawn to dark, the running battle involved thousands of troopers from two divisions of the federal army under Generals Buford, Kilpatrick, and Devin who had ambushed General Lee's cavalry division under General J E B Stuart.

On July 14, 2010, the Historical Society is cosponsoring, along with a group of interested citizens, an historical presentation on the Battle of Jack's Shop. A brief lecture given by Harold Woodward Jr., the author of several books on the history of Madison County and a Civil War Historian, will be followed by a tour of several of the sites on which the very bloody horse artillery and cavalry battle took place. The lecture will take place at 9.30 am in the pavilion of the Bethel United Methodist Church in Rochelle. The tour will follow immediately afterward.

Come to the lecture and tour to find out why the battle took place and who won. Coffee and donuts will be available to supply the energy necessary to withstand the excitement of the morning. For more information: http://www.pecva.org/anx/ass/library/355/jacksshopflyer.pdf
or call Doug at 540.948.3306

Not Everybody Left Town

2010-06-30T19:26:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 30, 1863

Not everyone went to Gettysburg. At least two from Huger's Battery remained in Brandy Station.

From R. Thomas Crew's and Benjamin H. Trask's book "Grimes' Battery, Grandy's Battery and Huger's Battery Virginia Artillery:

"Private James Addison (detailed as a blacksmith) and Private Richard Montgomery (detailed as artificer, blacksmith & farrier) at Brandy Station [30 June] through 31 August 1863. Each was paid .40 cents a day extra duty."

Though it isn't documented, I suspect they remained after the Army of Northern Virginia went north.

Huger's Battery holds a special place in my heart. To date at least six of this battery; Edward Moreland, Robert Lewis, Joseph Moore, George W. Butt, John W. Ashe and Robert Peed (5 times) signed the walls of the Graffiti House in Brandy Station.

Breakfast with Beverly

2010-06-29T19:19:00.001-04:00

Today in Fauquier County: June 29, 1863

The armies are moving ever closer to a confrontation around the town of Gettysburg. The Federals in the vicinity of Fredrick, Maryland; the Rebels are in Carlisle and York. JEB Stuart is clashing with the 1st Delaware Cavalry in Westminster.

Where is Brig. Gen. Beverly Robertson? On June 28, R.E. Lee sends a messenger to Robertson and Brig. Gen. Grumble Jones, both of whom, with their cavalry are guarding the passes to prevent Federals from encroaching into the Shenandoah Valley. Notice where the Federals are on the 29th?

They will eventually begin to move north, but it will be too late to help the Confederates.

But where is Beverly today? According to the diary of Mrs. Eliza (Ida) Dulany, he is breakfasting with her at her home Oakley near Upperville. I wonder what was on the menu?

A Day Late

2010-06-24T17:31:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station (sort of): June 24, 1863

As it appeared in the July 23 issue of the Richmond Daily Dispatch

--A correspondent who participated in the late cavalry fight at Brandy Station, writes us an account of Col. White's 35th Va. battalion in that engagement. It captured a battery, 100 prisoners, and four stand of colors, in which it was aided by a company of the 6th Va. We should publish the letter, but it is written at so late a day that the particulars given have been pretty generally published. We should feel obliged to soldiers for letters descriptive of engagements, if they can be sent to us directly after the engagements occur.

I have always liked this little news clip. The Daily Dispatch is gently reminding those who send letters from soldiers describing events to get them to the paper DIRECTLY after the engagement -- not a couple of weeks later.

So, in honor of this unknown participant from the 35th Virginia Battalion -- whom by the way participated in a great way: 8 killed, 39 wounded and 66 missing for a total of 113 -- by far the largest unit loss in the fight. I decided to post a day late.

An Englishman passes through

2010-06-20T19:30:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 20, 1863

From the Colonel Arthur J. L. Freemantle Diaries.

Armed with letters of introduction from the Secretary at War for Generals Lee and Longstreet, I left Richmond at 6 a.m. to join the Virginian army. I was accompanied by a sergeant of the Signal Corps, sent by my kind friend Major Norris, for the purpose of assisting me in getting on. We took the train as far as Culpeper, and arrived there at 5:30 p.m., after having changed cars in Gordonsville…The weather is quite cool after the rain of last night…Culpeper was, until five days ago, the headquarters of Generals Lee and Longstreet; but since Ewell’s recapture of Winchester, the whole army had advanced with rapidity, and it was my object to catch up as quickly as possible. On arriving at Culpeper, my sergeant handed me over to another myrmidon of Major Norris, with orders from that officer to supply me with a horse, and take me himself to join Mr. Lawley, who had passed through for the same purpose as myself three days before. Sergeant Norris, my new chaperon, is cousin to Major Norris, and is a capital fellow. Before the war he was a gentleman of good means in Maryland and was accustomed to a life of luxury. Although he was unwell when we arrived, and it was pouring with rain, he proposed that we should start at once – 6p.m. I agreed, and we did so. Our horses both had sore backs, were both unfed, except on grass, and mine was deficient of a shoe. They nevertheless traveled well, and we reached a hamlet called Woodville, fifteen miles distant; at 9:30. We had great difficulty in procuring shelter; but at length we overcame the in hospitality of a native, who gave us corn for our horses, and a blanket on the floor for ourselves.

Some would call Colonel Freemantle in today's terms a military attache. But in fact, his visit to North America was unofficial, hence he was a tourist. A Englishman from the Coldstreams Guards, he travelled through the south in the spring of 1863, catching up with Lee's Army in time for the Battle of Gettysburg. The Freemantle Diaries is a wonderful read, and gives a very fair treatment (no real bias) of his experiences.

Powell Returns Home

2010-06-16T18:53:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 16, 2010

A. P. Hill's Third Corps, Army of Northern Virginia begins crossing the Rappahannock today and makes camp in and around Culpeper Court House. The Third is the last of Lee's army to head north. Hill was born and raised in Culpeper (his boyhood home still stands), returns home as a corps commander for the first time.

By the 16th, Robert Rodes Division of Richard Ewell's Corps has already crossed the Potomac and is beyond Williamsport, Maryland. This is after Ewell invested Winchester (June 13-15). James Longstreet is at Gaines Crossroads with George Pickett's Division and Lafayette McLaw's Division is in the vicinity of Sperryville and John Hood's Division in in Markham, just east of Manassas Gap.

The Army of the Potomac has also begun it's slide to the north, doing it's best to keep between the Rebels and Washington, D.C.

A very nice study of the Lee's movement north can be found in Blue & Gray's Spring 2004 issue. The lead article "Lee Steals A March On Joe Hooker, June 1863 was written by Bud Hall. Back issues are still available

Marched to Catlett Station

2010-06-14T18:59:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 14, 1863

From the diary of Edwin Weist, 20th Indiana Infantry Regiment

Cadlit station. Revellie at 3. o.clock this morning with orders to be ready to march at 4. Did not get started till 4 in the evening however. Marched to Cadlit station where we arrived about 9. o.clock. The road we passed over was very familliar to me who had been over so often. The house at wich Gen. Kearny had his head quarters is in sight.

The 20th Indiana -- assigned to Brig. Gen. J.H. Hobart Ward's Brigade, Maj. Gen. David Birney's First Division of Dan Sickle's Third Corps -- has left Stafford County and now is moving up the Rappahannock, shadowing the Army of Northern Virginia as both armies move towards Gettysburg.

The Prisoners Arrive

2010-06-13T22:20:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 13, 1863

Two articles from the Richmond Dispatch:

--Fifty-nine Yankees, most of them wounded, captured in the fight at Brandy Station, were received at the Libby prison during the day yesterday.

--The fight at Brandy Station
The following dispatch, dated Washington, June 9th, is the only notice of the fight in Culpeper which has reached the New York papers:
A severe engagement took place this morning between our cavalry and that of the rebels, under Gen. Stuart. The locality at which it occurred was Beverly's ford, on the Rappahannock, five miles above Rappahannock Station and about the same distance below the Sulphur Springs.

We lost several noble men

2010-06-12T20:17:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 12, 1863

The letters describing the fight are now being written. This one is from a soldier in the 14th South Carolina Infantry, part of Abner Perrin's Brigade in Pender's Division. A portion appears below.

Dear Father and Mother and Sister,
...
We was on the march from Fredricksburg to Culpepper when I received your letter and it is the first chance that I have had to write to you. I have no news to write you of importance. I can say to you that our calvary and the yankees Calvary had a very hard fight on the 8th [9th] of this month. They cut our men up very bad but our boys run them back on the other side of the river. I reckon you all know Fate Turner. He killed a yankee. They all say he got the yankee gun and his pistol and his sword. They say it was the first shot that he ever shot at one. We lost several noble men. William Farley got killed in that. They wasn't any of our infantry engaged in the fight. We was in hearing of the fight. We was marveled very hard to get into the fight but it was over before we reached the place.

We are in camp near Culpepper now, but I can't tell you how long we will stay here. I don't know how long we will stay here. I think that we will move up the river when we leave here. I fear that we will have some hard fighting to do before long. If we do, I hope and pray the Lord will be with us all in the contest. I do believe that we are on the right side and if we are we will be sure to gain the victory. ...

Dear Father, you wrote to me if I wanted anything that you would send it to me. You can send me anything that you wish to send me and I will gladly receive it and take it as a great favor. I want you all to write to me as soon as you can and give me all the news that you have in that old country. ... I want you to send me some onions if you have any big enough to pull up.

Dear Father, I will come to a close for this time by saying to you that I still remain your truly loving son until death.

A letter from Bealeton

2010-06-11T20:15:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 11, 1863

Below is a portion of a letter from an unknown soldier in the 124th New York Infantry. The 124th took part in the fighting at Brandy Station two day prior and had a front row seat to activities that took place on the St. James Church plain.

Bealeton Station, Va., June 11 1863.
Dear Mother
The day before yesterday we had quite a battle at "Beverly Ford" on the Rappahannock. I wrote to you on the 8th from this place place, as we were going up, and on the night of the day that I wrote to you, we marched to the vicinity of the Ford just above Rappahannock Station on this R.R. [Orange & Alexandria] where we laid until morning. Before day light everything was stirring, and at daylight we were down to the Ford. Some cavalry crossed before us, but the 124th was the first regiment of infantry that went over. The water was about three feet deep, but the bottom was good, and we got over with (page two ) -out any trouble, except, wet pants. The slope from the river, back, from about half a mile was clear, and then you came to a large piece of woods, and there the cavalry was at work with the enemy. As soon as we were across we were ordered to the front, and as we marched up the slope we met cavalry men coming back, some of them with prisoners; others wounded or helping those that were. We soon got into the woods, on the Gordonsville road I think, and every little way we would see dead and dieing rebs. When we had got into the woods about half a mile, we were deployed on the left side of the road, and then moved forward in line of battle till we arrived within about ten yards of the outer edge of the woods, there we were ordered to lay down and await the coming of the enemy. No sooner than we had got this position when (page three) they commenced to shell us, but they shot too high and no one was hurt. Soon the word was passed along the line that the rebel cavalry was preparing to charge on us, and that we must "stand like a rock and shoot at the horses." In about five minutes we could see them as they came sweeping across the open space in our front, and in another instance they were in close pistol shot of us, when we jumped on our feet and poured in a volley which through them into confusion and dismounted a great many while the next volley sent them rolling back a disorganized mob. Some prisoners that we took said that they did not know that we had infantry in the woods or they would not have made the charge. A little while after this they attempted to turn our right flank and get command of the Ford, and our regiment and a regiment from the (page four ) the"12th Corps" was taken down there to stop them. When we arrived there, our cavalry [The 6th Pennsylvania - Rush's Lancers] had just made a charge on a reb battery and been driven back, and the enemy's skirmishers was following them up. (they were dismounted cavalry men.) Prospects did not look very bright at that time, but in a few moments, Co B. & K, under Capt. Jackson was ordered to deploy as skirmishers down along a stonewall that run towards the river. The enemy's skirmishers were about three hundred yards in front of the wall, and advancing towards it, and as we ran down along the wall, the balls flew around our head in every disagreeable manner. When we were all deployed, we turned our attention the to their grey backs and in about fifteen minutes we had driven them back out of range of our rifles, excepting a few that were not able to take themselves off on account of them getting in the way of our bullets. About one hundred yards behind our first line, was the house of "Capt. Dick Cunningham, a rebel gorilla...

Unfortunately, the letter ends here. At least the last page is missing, maybe more.

It is a wonderful account of the movement and fighting in the early part of the fight. It makes you wish for more.

Dr. George Russell Aylor, Jr.

2010-06-09T15:32:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 9, 2010

While today is the 'day' in the calender year for Brandy Station, other things are more important. This past week, the town and county of Culpeper, and the Brandy Station Foundation, lost a very good friend, Doc Aylor.

The obituary is from Monday's Culpeper Star Exponent.

George Russell Aylor, Jr., age 70, a beloved husband and father went to be with his Lord June 4th, 2010. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth Thornhill Finks, John H. Finks, George Russell Aylor and infant grandson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Page Bolick Aylor; his children, Katherine Page Aylor of Glen Allen, Virginia, and Dr. Scott Andrews Aylor and his wife, Danielle of Culpeper; his sister, Betty Ann-Finks Sevachko of Charlottesville; his nephew, Steven Sevachko and his wife, Caroline of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Dr. Aylor was born in Culpeper, Virginia and raised in Alexandria, Virginia where he graduated from Mount Vernon High School. He was a distinguished military graduate from Virginia Military Institute. After getting his DDS from the Medical College of Virginia he served 2 years as Captain of the Preventative Dental Unit at Fort Polk, Louisiana during the Vietnam War. In 1966, he, along with his wife and infant daughter, moved back to Culpeper where he opened a dental practice. He continued to work for over 45 years and was proud to have his son join him in that practice 10 years ago. He was a dedicated member of the Culpeper United Methodist Church and enjoyed serving the community.

Dr. Aylor was a founding member of the Culpeper County Planning Commission serving as chairman since 1989. His many other memberships included the Culpeper Foundation Board, past president of Culpeper Community Concert, past member of the Culpeper Hospital Board, Jefferson National Bank board of directors, the Lions Club, and State Board of Directors for the American Cancer Society.

As an avid enthusiast of history and 'student of the Civil War', he was a member of the Brandy Station Foundation and the Civil War Preservation Trust. In 2005, he was proudly named a Culpeper Colonel for his outstanding community service.

He and his wife truly enjoyed raising and racing Thoroughbred horses. Dr. Aylor's kindness and generosity will be greatly missed by all those that knew him.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 10, 2010 at 11 a.m. at Culpeper United Methodist Church with Rev. Randy Orndorff and Rev. Nancy Palmer conducting the service. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, June 9, 2010 from 6 until 8 p.m. at Clore-English Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Brandy Station Foundation, P.O. Box 165, Brandy Station, VA 22714; Culpeper United Methodist Church, 1233 Oaklawn Drive, Culpeper, VA 22701 and/or the Culpeper United Methodist Church Missions Fund or General Fund, 1233 Oaklawn Drive, Culpeper, VA 22701. Condolences may be given at clore-english.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Clore-English Funeral Home, 11190 James Monroe Highway, Culpeper, VA 22701.

"We expect to start early tomorrow"

2010-06-08T20:14:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 8, 1863

A portion of a letter from James M. Homerick to his brother.
Camp near Brandlt Station
Culpeper Court House
June 8/63
Dear Brother,
...We left Dayton one week today ago and after five days of marching we encamped at this place. We have had two grand reviews of five brigades of cavalry about 12,000 in number under Gnl. Stuart. The first took place Saturday when we were inspected by Stuart and I have just now returned from the second when we were inspected by Lieutenant General Robert E. Lee in person. He is a fine looking old man but very gray haired.
We are now in a battalion of artillery numbering about 16 pieces under the command of Major Beckham. ...The ?? artillery was along you can expect out for some small fighting before a week. We are now about two miles from the Rappahanock at Beverly’s Ford
I expect from the preparations that are being made that we are going to make a grand raid towards the Potomac as soon as the valley is cleared.
...excuse the shortness of this letter as I have just returned from the review and I feel tired from riding so much. Direct your letter
To Chew’s Battery
Jones Cavalry Brigade
Culpeper Court House
Please answer immediately, as we may leave in a couple days.
Remaining your
affect. brother James M. Homerick

Homerick enlisted into The Ashby Horse Light Artillery (Chew's) in December 1862 and would survive the war. The letter is from the Robert Luddy Collection.

Jed Hotchkiss, in his diary for the 8th, is making plans for tomorrow. A portion follows:

I went to work on a map reaching to the mountains, towards Front Royal, as Gen. Ewell told me that was the route he wished the troops to take tomorrow after they had rested and cooked rations. .... Our wagons were busy until late at night loading up commissary stores. The day has been quite pleasant. We expect to start early tomorrow.

"Be Troubled ye Careless Ones"

2010-06-07T19:19:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 7, 1863

It is a Sunday, but the Rebels our on the march.

The Fluvanna Artillery passed through Vierdieville and Somerville, and reached Culpeper at 3pm.

Richard Ewell's Corps crossed the Rapidan at Raccoon and Summerville Fords, Ewell was their to greet his men, and cheers went up as he moved along the column. Ewell would arrive in Culpeper around 10 am and be met there by Robert E. Lee. His Corps would move north along the Rixeyville Road, north of town. Robert Rodes' Division in the lead, Jubal Early and Edward Johnson's Divisions about four miles behind

James Longstreet Corps had already arrived. His Corps was camped Southwest of Pony Mountain, just outside town. John Bell Hood's Division was just coming back from near the river. Lafayette McLaws was marching through town and his division would camp along the Sperryville Road.

George Pickett's Division and the whole of A.P. Hill's Corps had yet to arrive.

JEB Stuart's Cavalry was spread out in front of the Infantry, providing the screen in case Yankee cavalry poked its head across the Rappahannock. However, one Yankee column did cross into Culpeper County.

Alfred Napolean Duffi'e's command moved across the Rappahannock and at Jeffersonton, turned south towards the Hazel River and Rixeyville. He returned back into Fauquier County, failing to find any enemy. He did not see and Confederate Cavalry, which were posted the Sperryville Turnpike and at Brandy Station, on either side of the Rixeyville Road his avenue of approach.

The grass was high and thick, the air bracing.

Back in Falmouth, those soldiers of the 4th Michigan Infantry who decided to attend church, heard a sermon titled, "Be troubled ye careless ones."

Nathaniel Peed writes home

2010-06-06T20:30:00.000-04:00

Today at Brandy Station: June 6, 1863

Below is a portion of a letter from Nathaniel Peed of the 9th Virginia Cavalry to his mother. Peed in his letter mentions Jimmy and Phil Peed. Probably brothers, at least cousins. Nathaniel and Phil would survive the war. Jimmy would be wounded in the thigh and taken prisoner on September 13, 1863 at Culpeper. Jimmy would die at Point Lookout, Maryland on December 22, 1863.

What makes this letter interesting is that Nathaniel discusses his attitudes of members of his company and the politics of promotions.

The letter is from the collection of Robert Luddy.

Camp near Brandy Station June 6, 1863
Dear Mother
I intended writing to you sometime ago but failed to do so. Jimmy got to camp yesterday morning safe. He somewhat surprised me for I made sure that the Yankees had captured him. His horse stood the ride very well. All to his feet they got very sore. But he has had him shod now. We had a grand review today of five Brigades of cavalry & Hoods infantry Division. It was a grand show. The general supposition that Longstreet is to threaten Washington this way & Lee to position the front at Fredercksburg. ...
Jimmy is a little poorly. He has slight chills & fevers very slight temp. I suppose you heard of the death of poor Georgie McClanahan. He was poorly when earlier I had left. But not sick enough to go to the hospital. He left camp and went to a private house Monday morning & died the next morning. I was never so surprised when I heard in my life for I thought he had nothing but a cold. How is Jeb getting along? Tell him we are fairing very well now.
We get half a pound of bacon, peas _____ & sugar & molasses. Sometimes Joseph Billingsley [Billingsley went AWOL in May] is our company commissary. The men are not at all satisfied with him. He tried to use too much authority with the men for a private...Capt. [John A.]Billingsley is very unpopular with the men There is usually a man who likes him. He tried to be strict but he don’t know how to carry it out... I thought I have no right to grumble for he treats me as well as he can. He headed the company very badly about the selection of officers.
Bob Coakley had been elected as Sr. Second Lieut., because they would not select [Sgt.] Phil Peed. He had him appointed ahead of Bob Coakley. The company is very much dissatisfied. We had the right to elect our officers & we wanted to use it. The company to a man wanted Jim McKinney Billingsley kicked up a fuss about Coakley being elected we didn’t want... He got ¾ of the vote of the company. Harrow got 3 votes.
Phil Peed & I don’t speak we had a falling out about a month ago. He was in fault. He cursed me & ordered me not to speak to him any more & I inclined to fulfill his orders. He is the second man that I have ever had a fuss with since I have been in camp.
...
Mother, The first chance you have send my carbine as I have use for it. Don’t forget it. Our horses was valued again yesterday. Jims was valued at $500 dollars, mine $5?? ...Saddle. Write soon.
From your dutiful son
Nathanial P.
PS I write in a hurry
& for fear you should
Understand about the
Election I put again before
You Phil Peed appointed Senior Second
Lieut. Coakley Junior Second
Nathaniel Peed, Co. I, 9th VA