Gettysburg Layouts

My layouts of Gettysburg National Military Park.

Courage under fire



The 121st Pennsylvania Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling says:
The monument for the 121st Pennsylvania is designed to look like a large knapsack and blanket roll. If one looks close enough you can even see strips carved into the stone. Also apart of the monument are other items the soldier’s would have carried with them like a kepi, sword, musket, cartridge box, and bayonet. In the upper left of the monument is a bursting shell. An American flag is draped over the right corner. Both the shell and flag are carved from granite. The 121st Pennsylvania infantry was positioned on the extreme left of the Union line during the fighting and experienced lots of shelling around them. During the fierce battle their flag was shot up and the shaft split. During the retreat through the town to Cemetery Hill Color Sergeant William Hardy picked up a roof shingle and used it to splint the broken staff. The hasty repair worked and for the rest of the war served as a reminder of the intense fire the united endured during the battle of Gettysburg.

Credits:
-Black paper from Witchy Woman by Britt-ish Designs
-Red ribbon from Fairchild add-on by Britt-ish Designs
-Frame from Just Frame Crazy by Britt-ish Designs
-White paper strip and red flowers from Leave the World Behind by Britt-ish Designs
-White flowers and glitter from Ohana by Britt-ish Designs
-String from Imperial girl by Britt-ish Designs
-Black ribbon from My Trendy Baby by Britt-ish Designs
-Stitches from Thanks Indeed by Britt-ish Designs
-Leaves from Totally Buggin by Britt-ish Designs and Mira Designs
-Alpha from The Bright Side by Britt-ish Designs

Facing the enemy



The 143rd Pennsylvania Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park

Journaling Says:
For their monument the 143rd Pennsylvania Infantry choose a design to honor a fallen comrade who during the battle inspired and encouraged them. Carved on the large granite block is a bas relief of Color Sergeant Ben Crippen shown shaking his fist at the enemy. Crippen was the bearer of the national flag and it was his job to keep the vital symbol of the unit where everyone could see it. Increasing pressure from the Confederates forced the Union line back towards the Lutheran Seminary. Crippen was among the last to fall back, periodically turning back to shake his fist at the approaching enemy. Confederate Corps Commander Lieutenant General A. P. Hill witnessed Crippen's actions and was saddened when he saw him fall. Crippen's body was never recovered and most likely rests among the unknown dead in Gettysburg National Cemetery. The survivors of the 143rd felt that Crippen's memory should be singled out for recognition.


Credits:
-Gray paper from Galatic Alliance add-on
-Blue paper and staples from Gallatic Alliance
-String from Tale as old as time add-on
-White flowers from I'm yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Blue flowers from Bunches of flowers
-Stiching from In Stitches: Basics
-Tag from Love Bytes
-Inspired by LeeAndra templates

The Eyes of the Enemy



The 17th Pennsylvania Cavalry Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park

Journaling Says:
When discussing the possibilities of a monument at Gettysburg the veterans of the 17th Pennsylvania Cavalry determined three objectives-- the monument should be unique and different, it should represent the cavalry, and should be constructed of a material that would last a long time.

The 17th Pennsylvania Cavalry was the first unit of the Union to enter Gettysburg at 2:00 pm on June 30, 1863. Heading north of town they sent out vedettes, which served as the eyes of the army and as an early warning system, to cover the roads from the west and north. It was this role, typical of the cavalry, that the 17th Pennsylvania decided to depict on the monument. The monument was positioned near where the vedette of the 17th was located.

The monument is a bas relief carved on a 27 ton block of Westerly granite. The figure on the monument is a life-size mounted vedette portrayed as he discovered the enemy with his carbine raised, ready to fire a warning for the cavalry reserve. A veteran of Company L, George W Ferree served as the model for the monument. He donned his original uniform and equipment to assure accuracy. With the large stone and the attention to detail help achieve the unit’s objective of creating a unique and different monument.

Credits:
-White paper (recolored) from Bunny Foo by Britt-ish Designs
-Yellow flowers from Sprite by Britt-ish Designs
-Leaves and white flowers from I Do by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Ribbon from My Ribbon Jar by Britt-ish Designs
-String from String Theory by Britt-ish Designs

The Peninsula state remembers



Credits;
-Black Friday Grab bag
-Sunshine in my soul
-Just Plain Fun
-Tack it down
-A knight's tale by Britt-ish Designs and Man in the Moon designs

Faugh a Ballaugh



28th Massachusetts Infantry Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park. The 28th MA was part of the Irish Brigade.

Journaling says:
The 28th Massachusetts was the largest unit of the Irish Brigade. There were 220 soldiers in the unit who fought along a line where the monument currently stands. On top of the monument is a large eagle with folded wings, a symbol of peace. An Irish Harp is carved on the left face of the monument. Under the United States seal is the Gaelic slogan, “Faugh A Ballaugh,” which translates to “Clear the way.” The slogan was the rallying cry of the Irish units at Gettysburg.

Credits:
-Lucky girl by WM [Squared] Designs
-WM [Squared] Designs DSD Grab Bag

Memory of Deeds



The 5th Michigan Infantry monument at Gettysburg National Park

Credits:
-Crumpled pencil line solids by Britt-ish Designs
-Collective cardboard by Britt-ish Designs
--Bunches of flowers by Britt-ish Designs
-Gretchen by Britt-ish Designs
-I'm yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Opening night by Britt-ish Designs and Stolen Moments
-Enchantment by Britt-ish Designs
-Die cut vellum alpha by Britt-ish Designs
-All for one templates by Britt-ish Designs

Align on the colors!



The 6th Wisconsin Infantry monument at Gettysburg National Military Park. The 6th Wisconsin wa spart of the famed, 'Iron Brigade.' The title is a quote from Lt. Col. Rufus Dawes.

Journaling says:

The monument for the 6th Wisconsin stands by the railroad Cut. It isn't located near the other Iron Brigade monuments, but is association with the famed unit is noted by the veteran's badge that forms the capstone. The unique hat worn by the unit is etched on the front of the main die. The monument is made of Montello red granite.

On the morning of July 1, 1863 the 6th Wisconsin was left in reserve as the rest of the Iron Brigade joined the fight. About 11:00 AM the 6th Wisconsin was ordered to go over the Chambersburg Pike to meet a potential thread near the railroad cut. When they reached the pike they were hit with fire from several Mississippi regiments who were using the depression of the railroad bed as cover. Lt. Colonel Rufus Dawes in command of the 6th Wisconsin ordered the unit along with the 14th Brooklyn and 95th New York to charge the enemy. They rushed across the expanse of land where the monument currently stands and became embroiled in fierce hand to hand combat when they reached the railroad cut. Eventually a part of the 6th Wisconsin made it to the Eastern end of the cut where they were able to fire down the length of the depression. Lt. Colonel Dawes called for the Confederates to surrender and 250 were taken prisoner. When the fighting was over the 6th Wisconsin took count of how many had survived the fighting. When they crossed the pike that morning there had been 420 men. At the end of the fighting there were only 240 who had survived. The land around where the monument now stands was littered with their dead, dying, and wounded comrades.

Credits:
-Cream paper from A Knights Tale by Britt-ish Designs and Man in the Moon Designs
-Brown paper (recolored) from Music and Lyrics by Britt-ish Designs
-Frame from I'm a Dreamer by Britt-ish Designs
-Flowers (recolored) from Itty Bitty by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Leaves from I'm Yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-String from Enchantment by Britt-ish Designs
-Brown ribbon (recolored) from Fairchild add-on by Britt-ish Designs
-White ribbon from My Ribbon Jar by Britt-ish Designs
-Remember wordart from Word Circles by Britt-ish Designs
-Staple from Sunshine in my soul by Britt-ish Designs

2nd Fire Zouaves



The 73rd NY Infantry monument at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA. The unit was also known as the 2nd Fire Zouaves because it was compromised of volunteer firefighters from NYC.

Credits:
-Stars and Stripes forever, a Scrapmatters Design team collab
-Be Inspired - Kim templates by WM [Squared] Designs

By reason or force



The 83rd New York Infantry monument at Gettysburg National Military Park

Journaling says:
The 83rd New York was originally formed in 1850 as the 9th New York State National Guard. The services of the unit were important during and after the Civil War.

When a group of veterans visited the battlefield in 1886 they were disappointed with the lack of New York monuments. Only two had been erected at this time and neither represented the veterans from New York City. A site had already been selected for a monument. The corner-stone was laid in May 1888 and the monument was ready to be dedicated three weeks later.

The shaft of the monument is 51 feet tall and is made up alternating levels of red and white granite. It is topped with a large bronze cannonball on which a large bronze eagle sits. The regimental badge and motto, "Ratione Aut Vi," "by Reason or Force" is on a medallion at the base of the shaft.

Credits:
-Blue paper, flowers, and lace from Itty Bitty by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Everything else from Britt-ish Designs 2009 DSD Grab Bag

Don't give them an inch!



The 83rd PA Infantry monument at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Credits:

by WM [Squared] Designs
-Green and Serene
-Lucky Girl
-NEW "Ornamental Overlays"

by Britt-ish Designs
-Black Bead Alpha
-Just Frame Crazy

"tally-ho!"



The title was the battle cry of the 8th Illinois Cavlary. This is the 8th Illinois Cavalry monument at Gettysburg Nationa Military Park in Gettysburg, PA.

Journaling says:
The 8th IL Cavalry monument now stands at the spot where the 8th NY Cavalry stood until it was moved to more accurately mark the cavalry positions. The 8th IL Cavalry monument marks the approximate center of the unit’s battle line on July 1, 1863.

The monument is made of 3 blocks of Blue Westerly Rhode Island granite. The regulation cavalry saddle is the most prominent feature. It is carved out of the capstone. It is an exact replica including the army blanket roll, saddlebags, and haversack.

The monument was created to honor the unit, but two individuals are singled out on the monument. Lt. Marcellus Jones’ name is inscribed on the front and Private David Diffenbaugh is on the back. Lt. Jones has been credited as firing the first shot. He was in charge of the picket detail at Marsh Creek Bridge. He fired the first shot at about 7:30 am at Heth’s approaching division. The spot is marked by a small shaft of Illinois granite and placed there by Lt. Jones and two companions in 1886.

No explanation has ever been given to why Private Diffenbaugh’s name was placed there, but he was the unit’s sole fatality. The role of Buford’s Cavalry division was to fight to delay Heth until the infantry arrived because the cavalry was an expensive branch of the service to train and maintain. They were considered to be too valuable to sacrifice in a battle with the enemy. Private Diffenbaugh is buried in the National Cemetery a short distance away.

Credits:
-Brown paper from "Mod Boy" by Tracie Stroud Designs
-Flower from "Sprite by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Rubber ban wrap from "DIS December Freebie"
-leaves from "Totally buggin'" by Britt-ish Designs and Mira Designs
-Tag from "Love bytes" by Britt-ish Designs
-Alpha from "Fairchild" by Britt-ish Designs

Silent sentries

These are some of my favorite monuments at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Credits:
-Template by Erica Zane
-Blue paper (recolored) from "Serenity Now" by Erica Zane
-Brown paper (photo mats) from "Breezy Beauty" by Erica Zane
-White paper from "Berry Crush" by Erica Zane and Mari Koegelenberg
-Branches from "Falling Dusk" by Erica Zane
-Stitches (recolored) from "Secret Sage" by Erica Zane
-Alpha from NEW "Let's Kick It" by Britt-ish Designs
-Alpha from "Magical Escape" by Erica Zane

Virginia State Memorial

The Virginia State Memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Credits:
-Black paper, tag, twine, brown ribbon, flowers, leaves and frame from NEW "Woodland Fantasy" by Erica Zane
-Staples from "Let's Kick It" by Britt-ish Designs
-Stitching from "Mermaid Lagoon" by Britt-ish Designs

The Turning Point

The High Water Mark at Gettysburg marks what many have called the "high water mark" of the Confederacy. This was a major turning point in the Civil War, the point where the tide began to turn into the Union's favor.

Credit:
-White paper from "The Bright Side" by Britt-ish Designs
-Black ribbon from "Woodland Fantasy" by Erica Zane
-Gray ribbon and gray paper from "A Halloween Nightmare" by Britt-ish Designs
-Worn photo overlay by Something Blue Studios
-Blue flower from "EZ Dreams" by Erica Zane
-Leaves from "Hayfever Happens" by Erica Zane
Fonts: 1942 Report and Typist

Major-General George Meade

Major-General George Meade's equestrian statue at Gettysburg National Military Park. Meade was in command of the Union forces at Gettysburg and is credited with defeated Robert E. Lee here. His monument is placed just behind the Angle where he rode up on the third day of the battle to watch his forces repulse the Confederate attack.

Credits:
-Black paper from "Woodland Fantasy" by Erica Zane
-Brown paper from "Shabby Spice" by Ellie Lash and Cuppy Cake Designs
-Tag from "Spellbound" by Ellie Lash
-String and staples from "Enchantment" by Britt-ish Designs

Pennsylvania State Memorial

The largest memorial and probably the most photographed is the Pennsyvlania State Monument that was built to honor all of the Pennsylvanians who fought at Gettysburg.

Credits:
-Blue paper, brown paper (recolored-journaling mat), and staples from "Enchantment" by Britt-ish Designs
-Flowers from "Pink eyed Blues" by Erica Zane
-Leaves from "Decadence" by Britt-ish Designs
-Tag from "EZ Dreams" by Erica Zane
-Frames from "Just Frame Crazy" by Britt-ish Designs
-String from "Family Matters" by Sya's Blueprints and Matahati Designs

Beauty is all around

Photo is from Gettysburg National Military Park. I thought this tree was so neat looking and the angle that we were at was beautiful. Though my sister thought I was nuts. I just love this photo.

Journaling says:
While driving along the tour of the battlefield I stopped the car abruptly. There was something I just had to take a picture of. It wasn’t a monument or landmark, but a tree. It looked so beautiful silhouetted against the bright blue April sky. It took several tries, but we finally got an awesome shot of it. I love the green grass dotted with dandelions, the crystal blue sky full of puffy, white clouds, and the bare branches of the tree. All together it was so beautiful. I was happy that we were able to capture with the camera what I saw. It is like Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “beauty breaks in everywhere.” We just sometimes need to stop and appreciate it. Even if it is only a lonely tree.

Credits:
-Brown paper from "Jardin Rustique" paper pack by Polka Dot Plum
-Yellow paper from "DIS December Freebie" by Britt-ish Designs
-Leaves from "Sensory Overload" by Polka Dot Plum
-Frame, jouranling paper, and staples from "Lil Brother" By Britt-ish Designs
-Yellow flower from "Sprite" by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-White flowers from "Woodland Fantasy" by Erica Zane
-Overlay from Something Blue Studios
-"Dreams Come true" alpha by Britt-ish Designs

Witness to history

The Lutheran Theological Seminary in Gettysburg.

Journaling says
The Lutheran Theological Seminary was founded in 1826 by Samuel Simon Schmucker. Schmucker not only was one of the leading churchman in American Lutheran circles, but also a staunch abolitionist. Prior to the Civil War the Seminary served as a stop along the Underground Railroad. The Seminary is probably most famous though for being at the heart of the fighting during the first day at Gettysburg. The cupola atop of the old dormitory functioned an observation tower for first the Union army and later the Confederate army. On the first day of the battle Brigadier General John Buford would watch the fierce fighting on Seminary Ridge from the cupola. During the battle it was turned into a field hospital and for two months after the battle it would continue to serve as a hospital where soldiers from both sides were treated.

Credits:
-Red paper and tag from "Shabby Spice" by Ellie Lash and Cuppy Cake Designs
-Frames from "Just Frame Crazy" by Britt-ish Designs
-Staples from NEW "Learning Curve" by Sya's Blueprints
-Leaves from "Its a Charmed Life" by Matahati Designs
-Alpha from "Pink Eyed Blues" by Erica Zane
-Paper strip from "Where the heart blooms" by Erica Zane
-White flowers and stitching from "Woodland Fantasy" by Erica Zane
-String from "Family Matters" by Matahati Designs and Sya's Blueprints
-Journaling book from "Heritage Happy" by Erica Zane

Field of Destiny

The site of Pickett's Charge at Gettysburg.

Journaling Says
What has become known as “Pickett’s Charge” on July 3, 1863 at Gettysburg is often noted as the turning point of the Civil War. It was here that the fortunes of both the North and South would change forever.

The charge was devised by General Robert E. Lee against Major General George G. Meade’s positions on Cemetery Ridge. After failed attacks to the Union flanks, Lee was determined to strike at the Union center. Meade predicted the night before that charge that Lee would attack the center and adjusted his army accordingly. General Longstreet was against the attack from the beginning and tried to change Lee’s mind, but was unable to do so.

July 3, 1863 was a hot and humid day. The Confederate army suffered under the hot sun waiting for the attack to begin. The attack finally began at 1:00 PM. The large infantry assault planned by Lee was to wait for the artillery bombardment to soften the Union defense and silence the artillery. But the artillery bombardment was greatly ineffective. Many of the shells missed the Union infantry frontlines. The thick smoke of battle made it impossible for the Confederate gunners to see that they missed their targets. When the Union artillery overshot it often went into the woods on Seminary Ridge where the Confederate troops waited.

The charge was comprised of approximately 12,500 Confederate troops that stretched a mile long. They had to advance over three-fourths of a mile across undulating open fields under heavy Union artillery and rifle fire. There were points when the advancing troops would be out of view from the Union troops. On the way to reach the Union troops the Confederate troops would have to go over a low stone wall, which helped to shield the Union defenders.

The charge lasted less than 50 minutes and when it was over, the Confederate army had lost 50% of its men. Pickett’s division had been decimated. All three of his brigadier generals were killed, but Pickett was unharmed.

Lee tried to regroup the shattered army fearing a counterattack from the Union army, but was unable to rally his troops. When he told General Pickett to rally his troops, he is said to have told lee, “General Lee, I have no division.” Pickett was inconsolable for the rest of the day and would never forgive Lee for ordering the charge that annihilated his division.

The decisive defeat at Gettysburg ended Lee’s Pennsylvania campaign. The Confederate army was psychologically never the same after Gettysburg and Pickett‘s Charge. All the hope and promise at the beginning of the campaign was gone. The Confederate army left Pennsylvania broken and defeated. Less than two years later General Robert E. Lee would surrender to General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia.

Credits:
Everything by Britt-ish Designs

-Background paper from "Thanks Indeed"
-Frames from "Just Frame Crazy"
-Hanging clip from "Sprite" by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Tag from "Lil Brother"
-Brown paper (tag) from "I"m a Dreamer"
-Staples from "Hustle and Bustle"
-"Basic Felt" alpha
-"Inspired by Kelsy" templates

History's Muse

The 123rd New York Infantry Monument at Gettysburg. The figure atop the monument is called "History Recording" and represents Clio, the muse of history.

Credits:
-Blue paper, white paper, green paper, stitches, leaves, white flowers, twig, and alpha from "Jakey's Jinx" by Erica Zane
-Brown ribbon from "Woodland Fantasy" by Erica Zane
-Template from "Stripped (Set 4) by Sya's Blueprints.

Bucktail Brigade

The monument for the 149th Pennsylvania Infantry, which was part of the "Bucktail Brigade."

Journaling Says:
The monument for the 149th Pennsylvania Infantry along the Chambersburg Pike marks the spot where they fought on July 1, 1863. The bronze bucktail on the left side of the kepi marks the unit as part of the “Bucktail Brigade.” During the fighting on July 1, the 149th lay in the ditch not far from where the monument is located today. They were under heavy artillery fire. During the battle the color guard under the command of Color Sergeant Henry G. Brehm moved the flags fifty yards to the north to draw the fire away from the rest of the unit. They found shelter behind a pile of fence rails before being bombarded by enemy artillery. They remained where they were until the Union line on McPherson’s Ridge began to give away. Many of the color bearers were killed or wounded as they tried to save the colors from the approaching enemy forces. The brave decision of the color guard helped to save the lives of their comrades. The figure on the monument looks in the direction where the flags and their guard sat and waited.

Credits
By Britt-ish Designs
-Background paper and stitches from "Thanks Indeed"
-Dark brown strip (recolored) from "I'm a Dreamer"
-Light brown strip from "Music and Lyrics"
-Medium brown paper strip (recolored) from "Enchantment"
-Tag from "Lil Brother"
-"Burnt Toast" alpha (recolored)

-Template from NEW "Stripped (Set 4)" by Sya's Blueprints

-Photo overlay by Happy Scrap Girl

Schoolteacher's Regiment Monument

The monument for the 151st Pennsylvania Infantry at Gettysburg National Military Park

Journaling says:
The 151st Pennsylvania Infantry monument isn’t very ornate, but it honors a unique regiment who during the course of the battle exhibited extreme gallantry. The regiment earned the nickname “Schoolteacher’s Regiment” because of the 113 teachers in the ranks. Company D was composed entirely of teachers and students at Lost Creek Academy. The principal of the school, Lt. Col. George McFarland, was in command of the regiment on July 1 at Gettysburg. The regiment helped to defend the Union left flank on McPherson’s and Seminary Ridges. The regiment took cover near a barricade and held off several Confederate attacks near Seminary Ridge. While crouching down to try to track the Confederate movements through the thick smoke Lt. Col. McFarland was shot through both legs. McFarland was brought safely to the hospital at the Lutheran Theological Seminary where he would stay for several months after the battle, but the wound would cost him his right leg. The dead of the 151st would remain on the field as the Union fell back to the Seminary. One Confederate officer passing by where the 151st had fought stated, “The dead of the enemy marked its line of battle with the accuracy of a line at dress parade.” During the fighting the regiment lost nearly 75% of its 478 men.

In July 1, 1888 exactly twenty-five years after the battle, Lt. Colonel McFarland along with other survivors to dedicate the monument. The three rifles on the front of the monument represents the brutal rifle fire that 151st endured and delivered that hot July day.

Credits
-Template 13 by Neeceebee

By Britt-ish Designs
-White stitching from NEW "Monstrosity"
-Blue paper from "Enchantment"
-Brown paper from "Gracefully Aged"
-Staples from "Hustle and Bustle"

By Erica Zane
-Frame from "Falling Dusk"
-Flowers and leaves from "Jakey's Jinx"
-Flower ribbon wrap from "Where the Heart Blooms"

By Matahati Designs
-Very important Date

By a comrade's grave

The title is the name of the monument. This is the monument for the 38th Pennsylvania Infantry (9th Reserves) at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling says:
The monument for the 38th Pennsylvania Infantry stands atop a boulder on the position the 9th Reserves held from late on July 2 until the end of the battle. On the front of the monument is a carving of a solider looking down at the grave of a friend. The monument was designed to honor the sacrifices made by the 9th Reserves throughout the war. The grave on the monument symbolizes the men who died defending the Union, not just at Gettysburg, but all of the many fields where the regiment had fought.

Info for the journaling is from a book I got at Gettysburg. I don't have the name of it right now.

Credits

By Erica Zane
-Black paper from "Woodland Fantasy"
-White flowers from "Pink Eyed Blues"
-Leaves from "Jakey's Jinx"
-Staple from "Berry Crush" by Erica Zane and Mari Koegelenberg
-Tag and string from "EZ Dreams"

Alpha from "Fairchild" by Britt-ish Designs

Where valor proudly sleeps

The 116th Pennsylvania Infantry monument at Gettysburg National Miltary Park

Journaling says
Like the other unites in the Irish Brigade the 116th Pennsylvania Infantry had suffered heavy losses in previous battles. At the beginning of the battle at Gettysburg there were only 142 officers and men left. The monument of the 116th Pennsylvania reflects the brutal reality of the destructiveness of war. During the battle Major St. Clair A Mulholland was in command of the regiment. It was at this spot during a lull in the fighting he saw a young dead soldier who had been shot through the head. There was a faint smile on the boy’s face. It was a scene that Mulholland never forgot and inspired the design of the monument. The sculpture represents a part of the battlefield, the dead soldier lying beside a wall while still grasping the musket he had been using as club. Around he are the broken pieces of the bayonet scabbard, splintered musket, and pieces of a farmer’s fence. The debris represents the destruction left in the path of the fighting. The only victor reflected in the monument is death. For the survivors of the 116th Pennsylvania Infantry the monument was a reminder of the many comrades left behind on the many battlefields of the war.

Credits
"Itty Bitty" by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane

Beloved companion

The 11th PA Infantry monument at Gettysburg National Military Park. The main feature of this monument is the bronze figure of their beloved mascot, Sallie.

Journaling says:
The monument of the 11th Pennsylvania stands at the spot they defended on the afternoon on July 1, 1863 and is dedicated to the heroic dead. Most visitors only see the bronze statue at of the soldier preparing to fire and few walk around to the front where there is a small bronze monument of a small dog. The dog is Sallie, the mascot of the 11th and is numbered among the “heroic dead” that the monument is dedicated to.

Sallie was given to the regiment as a puppy early in the war. She grew up with the men in the unit and became a comrade-in-arms. She shared the marches, the hardships, and danger of battle with the soldiers. During battles Sallie would stand at the end of the line barking at the enemy.

During the battle of Gettysburg Sallie was with the men, but was separated from the unit during their retreat through town. She didn’t know where they had gone, but she knew where they had been. She made her way across the debris strewn battlefield to the ridge where her fallen comrades lay. Sallie laid among the dead, dying, and wounded and maintained a silent vigil for a remainder of the battle. After the Confederates retreated a soldiers from the 12th Massachusetts found her lying amongst the dead. Sallie was alive, but weak from a lack of food. She was returned to her unit where she quickly recovered and would serve faithfully with her regiment throughout the rest of the war.

In February 6, 1865 as Sallie was shot and killed going into battle with the regiment at Hatcher’s Run, Virginia. The men loved her so much that they buried her on the field despite the heavy enemy fire around them. When it was time to design and build the monument it seemed only appropriate to include their beloved friend and mascot who meant so much to them.

Credits
-Background paper from "Itty-Bitty add-on" by Erica Zane
-Flowers and staples from NEW "Itty-Bitty" by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Light Brown paper from "Breezy Beauty" by Erica Zane
-Leaves from "Ever After" by Matahati Designs
-Worn overlay from Something Blue Studios
-Tag from "EZ Dreams" by Erica Zane
-Stitches from "In Stitches: Basic" by Britt-ish Designs
-"Tuesday Template Challenge 08/05" by Sya's Blueprints

Major General John Buford

The portrait statue of Major General John Buford at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling says
The monument of Maj. Gen. John Buford stands facing westward as he did on July 1, 1863 when 3,000 cavalrymen from his division prepared to meet Lee’s advancing army. Buford’s job was to slow the advance of Heth’s division until the Union infantry arrived on the field. Buford’s small force was able to effectively slow Heth’s advance and his efforts that morning contributed considerably to the outcome of the battle. Six months after the battle of Gettysburg Buford contracted typhoid fever and died on December 16,1863 surrounded by a small group of men he had inspired.

After the 25th anniversary of the battle the Buford Memorial Association was formed with the purpose to erect a monument to honor General Buford. During the discussion about the design it was recommended by John Calif who commanded a horse artillery battery under Buford that the design incorporate four ordnance rifles. The number 233 was incorporated because it was the gun that fire the first artillery shot at Gettysburg. Calif provided the serial number to the army Chief of Ordnance who was able to track the tubes. The four tubes were then incorporated into the design and placed at the corners of the pedestal base.

Credits
-Black paper from "Enchantment" by Britt-ish Designs
-Green paper from "Used and Abused" by Britt-ish Designs
-White flowers from "Itty Bitty" by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Brown ric rac from "Brown Eyed Girl" by Britt-ish Designs
-White vertical stitches from "In Stitches: Basic" by Britt-ish Designs
-White straight stitching from "Monstrosity" by Britt-ish Designs
-Blue brad (recolored) from "Space Ranger" by Britt-ish Designs
-Leaves from "Sensory Overload" by Polka Dot Plum"

For the glory

The "Soldiers & Sailors of the Confederacy" monument at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling Says:
In the 1960’s as the centennial of the Civil War drew close there was a movement to erect a monument honoring all members of the Confederate army and navy. Gettysburg was selected as the location for the monument since it was considered the greatest battle of the war. It is also thought to by many to be the symbolic “High Water Mark” of the Confederacy. Funds for the monument were contributed by all 11 states from the Confederacy and 3 borders states, Missouri, Maryland, and Kentucky.

The monument was sculpted by Donald DeLue. It represents a Southern color bearer charging forward, urging his comrades to follow him. The names of all states that contributed soldiers to the Confederacy are inscribed on the base.

At the back of the monument is the name of Walter Washington Williams who was a forage master with a Texas regiment who was credited with being the last member of the Confederate forces to die at the age of 117 years, one month, and 5 days on December 19, 1959. Though there has been some controversy whether or not he was truly the last Confederate.

Credits:
-Date Stamp from "Date Stamp Classic" by Britt-ish Designs
-Everything else from "Green and Serene" by WM [Squared] Designs

Font: Bulgarian Garamond

Courage under fire

This is the John Burns statue at Gettysburg. He was the only civilan who participated in the battle. I used the red accents because it is the color of courage.

Credits:
Everything by Britt-ish Designs
-Light brown (background) paper from "Tale as old as time" add-on
-Dark brown paper (strips), medium brown paper (paper block), and brown button from "Thanks indeed"
-Light brown (strip) paper from "I'm a Dreamer"
-Red flowers (slight recolor), leaves, and staples from "Totally Buggin'" by Britt-ish Designs and Mira Designs
-Stitching from "In Stiches: Basic"
-Brown flowers from "Reuse Recycle Flowers"
-High Em High Templates 2

Savior of Little Round Top

Journaling says:
The statue of General Gouverneur K. Warren stands on the boulder from where he spotted the Confederates advancing on Little Round Top on July 2, 1863. After General Daniel Sickles’ 3rd Corps were repositioned, Little Round Top was left essentially unoccupied. Only a small group of signalmen were left on Little Round Top. Warren looked to the south and west and caught a glimpse of the battle lines the Confederates were forming on Warfield and Seminary Ridges. Warrant ordered the signalmen to stay and appear as if Little Round Top was occupied. He then sent his aides to find reinforcements to occupy the hill. His quick thinking and prompt action meant that Little Round Top stayed in Union control throughout the battle. General Warren was dubbed “Savior of Little Round Top.” The Veteran’s Association of the 5th New York Infantry decided to created a monument of General Warren. All the funds for the monument were privately raised.

Credits:
-Black paper, cream paper, and white flowers from "Honey Dew" by WM [Squared] Designs
-Brown paper and ribbon from "Boho Bliss" by WM [Squared] Designs
-Green paper, stitches, leaves, frame, and tag from "Green and Serene" by WM [Squared] Designs
-Date stamp version 1 by Britt-ish Designs
-Alpha from "Spellbound" by Ellie Lash
-NEW Hang Em High templates 2 by Britt-ish Designs

South Carolina State monument

The South Carolina State Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park. The journaling is what is inscribed on the monument.

Monument text:
That men of honor might forever know the responsibilities of freedom. Dedicated South Carolinians stood and were counted for their heritage and convictions. Abiding faith in the sacredness of States Rights provided their creed. Here many earned eternal glory.

Credits
-Black paper from "A Halloween Nightmare" by Britt-ish Designs
-Staples from "Enchantment" by Britt-ish Designs

McPherson's Farm

Photo of McPherson’s barn at Gettysburg National Military Park

Journaling says:
Union cavalry under John Buford camped on the large farm owned by Edward McPherson just west of Gettysburg on June 30, 1863. Most of McPherson's farm was pasture though two fields were planted in corn and wheat. A unique feature of the farm is the two ridges that perpendicular to the Chambersburg Pike. The next day on July 1, 1863 Buford’s men held the ridgeline until reinforcements arrived which included the famous “Iron Brigade.” The fighting at McPherson’s farm lasted most of the day with thousands of wounded and dying. Crops and pastures were ruined by the battle and caused considerable damage to fences, buildings and other property that McPherson was never compensated for. McPherson sold the farm in 1868. It was purchased by the National Park Service in 1904.

Credits:
By WM [Squared] Designs
-Green paper, buttons, and stitches from NEW Shabby Chic
-White flowers from "Honey Dew"
-Ribbon from "Boho Bliss"

-Gretchen alpha by Britt-ish Designs

Maj. Gen. Abner Doubleday

The monument for Maj. Gen. Abner Doubleday at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA.

Journaling says:

The monument of Abner Doubleday was erected to honor the role he performed on the first day of the battle. In 1861 he was stationed at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor he fired the first Union canon shot of the Civil War.

At Gettysburg after the death of Corps commander John F. Reynolds, Doubleday assumed command of the First Corps. He stubbornly defended the land west of Gettysburg until his units were decimated. A report from the Eleventh Corps Oliver O. Howard led to Doubleday being removed from his temporary command. After the battle he asked to be relieved of command of his division. He spent most the rest of his life defending his role at Gettysburg.

In 1893 the state of New York commissioned the monument. It was unveiled by Doubleday’s niece, Alice Seymour Doubleday on September 25, 1917. At the position where the center of his line held the monument over looks the field on which Doubleday greatly contributed to slowing the advance of the Confederate army.

Credits:
-Paper, flower, and string from "Peace and Quiet" by Andilynn Designs and Britt-ish Designs
-Leaf from "Bunny Foo Foo" by Britt-ish Designs
-Staples and Tag from "Jackpot" by Britt-ish Designs
-Frame from "Green and Serene" by WM [Squared] Designs

Alabama State memorial

The Alabama State memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA. The text is the text on the monument.

Credits
-Black paper from "A Halloween Nightmare" by Britt-ish Designs

Florida State Memorial

The Florida State memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA. The text is the text on the monument.

Credits
-Black paper, gray paper, and stitches from "A Halloween Nightmare" by Britt-ish Designs

Arkansas State memorial

The Arkansas State memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA. The text is the text on the monument.

Credits
-Black paper from "A Halloween Nightmare" by Britt-ish Designs

Tennessee State Memorial

The Tennessee State memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA. The text is the text on the monument.

Credits
-Black paper from "A Halloween Nightmare" by Britt-ish Designs

Texas State memorial

The Texas State Memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Credits:
-Black paper and gray paper from "A Halloween Nightmare" by Britt-ish Designs
-Stitches from "Mermaid Lagoon" by Britt-ish Designs

Georgia State memorial

The Georgia State memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA. The text is the text from the monument.

Credits:
-Black and gray papers from "A Halloween Nightmare" by Britt-ish Designs
-Stitching from "Jackpot" by Britt-ish Designs

Vermont State Memorial

The Vermont State Memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA.

Credits:

By Britt-ish Designs
-Light gray paper from Sisters 4 Life by Britt-ish Designs and Sya's Blueprints
-Dark gray paper from A Halloween Nightmare
-Blue paper and white flowers from Ohana
-Blue flowers (recolored) from [/b]NEW[/b] My Trendy Baby
-Branches from Sunshine in my Soul

By WM [Squared] Designs
-Tuesday Template 6-9-09 template

The last full measure

Today is the 146th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. The battle was fought July 1-3, 1863. I created this to remember the battle and all those who gave the last full measure of devotion. The words are part of the Gettysburg address.

Photo is from our April 2007 trip. The monument in the background is the Pennsylvania State Memorial.

Credits:
-Black paper from A Halloween Nightmare by Britt-ish Designs
-White flowers from Itty Bitty by Brit-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Leaves from Jakey's Jinx by Erica Zane
-Messy Masks by Britt-ish Designs

Unsurpassed heroism

The North Carolina State Memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park

Journaling says:
The North Carolina State Memorial was one of the first southern monuments built at Gettysburg to honor the twenty-three infantry regiments, three cavalry regiments, three artillery batteries, and one infantry battalion that participated in the battle. The memorial was sculpted by Gutzon Borglum who carved the presidents at Mount Rushmore. It was designed to commemorate the valor, bravery, and courage of the men from North Carolina. It is located where Pettigrew’s North Carolina brigade of Heth’s division entered the field during Pickett’s charge. Borglum’s idea was to show a group of infantrymen who had been ordered to charge across the already bloody field. One of the figures represents a wounded officer who still tries to urge his men on. To his rear is a veteran soldier who whispers encouraging words to a younger soldier. Behind them is the color bear who proudly holds up the flag. The faces of the soldiers were based on photographs of actual Confederate veterans. Orren Randolph Smith of Henderson, North Carolina was the model for the color bearer and who had designed the Confederate flag. Near the main monument is a monolith containing the names of North Carolina units.

Monument Text:
To the eternal glory of the North Carolina soldiers who on this battlefield displayed heroism unsurpassed, sacrificing all in support of their cause. Their valorous deeds will be enshrined in the hearts of men long after their transient memorials have crumbled into dust.

Thirty two North Carolina regiments were in action at Gettysburg July 1, 2, 3, 1863. One Confederate soldier in every four who fell here was a North Carolinian.

This tablet erected by the North Carolina Division of the United Daughters of the Confederacy.

Credits:
-Black paper from A Halloween Nightmare by Britt-ish Designs
-Ribbon from Yippee Skippee by Britt-ish Designs
-White flowers from Itty Bitty by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Staples and leaves from Totally Buggin by Britt-ish Designs and Mira Designs
-Yellow flowers from Ohana by Britt-ish Designs
-Paint splat from The Bright Side by Britt-ish Designs

The Excelsior Brigade Monument

The Excelsior Brigade Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling says:At the beginning of the war former Congressman Daniel E. Sickles raised an entire brigade. The five regiments that were raised were the 70th, 71st, 72nd, 73rd, and 74th New York infantries. They fought as reinforcements along the Union lines on Emmitsburg Road. Each regiment’s veteran association had the option to erect their own monument, but since they had always fought together they decided to create one large brigade monument.

The monument consists of a pentagonal base. On each of the sides is a plaque detailing the history of one of the regiments. The five columns also represent the five regiments. Originally a bust of General Sickles was to be placed on the inner pedestal, but was never completed. The bronze eagle at the top of the dome sits in a warlike, out-stretched wing-pose represents the brigade’s readiness to strike at their opponent.

Credits:
-Template from Gimme some space 3 by Sya's Blueprints
-Brown paper, light blue paper (recolored), ribbon, staples, flowers, leaves, beads, and alpha from I'm Yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Darker blue paper from Hooligans by Britt-ish Designs
-Date stamp from Simply Dated Britt-ish Designs

Saving Little Round Top

The 140th New York Infantry Monument on Little Round Top at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling says:
The 140th New York Infantry was essential in saving Little Round Top on July 2, 1863. During the battle as General Evander Law’s Alabamians stormed the south slope of the hill that was defended by the 20th Maine, 83rd Pennsylvania, and 44th New York, two regiments of Texas infantry slipped into the valley and nearly flanked the 16th Michigan. The right flank of companies of the 19th Michigan began to give way just as the 140th New York arrived. The commander of the 140th, Colonel Patrick O’Rorke, was a West Pointe graduate. There was no time to load muskets so they fixed bayonets and went to assist the 16th Michigan. The Confederates were beaten back down the hill and the position was secured. Colonel O’Rorke was found dead at the place where the monument is located. He was shot through the neck during the charge. The monument was designed by the Veteran’s association of the 140th New York as a memorial to the members of the unit who died at Gettysburg. On the front of the monument is a bronze bust of Colonel O’Rorke. It is said that rubbing his nose is good luck.

Credits:
-White paper, leaves, and blue flowers (recolored) from I'm Yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Branches from Sunshine in my soul by Britt-ish Designs
-White flowers and staples from Itty Bitty by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-Frames from Just Frame Crazy by Britt-ish Designs
-Sparkles from Ohana by Britt-ish Designs
-Brown Town alpha by Britt-ish Designs
-Shamrocks from Lucky Girl by WM [Squared] Designs

Maryland, My Maryland

The 2nd Maryland Battalion Monument (CSA) at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling Says:
The 1st Maryland Battalion Monument is the only regimental monument built by a Confederate veteran’s group. It was part of General George Steuart’s brigade of General Edward Johnson’s division, Richard Ewell’s 2nd Corps. The 1st Maryland participated in the successful assault and capture of the lightly defended lower Culp’s Hill on the evening of July 2. They held this spot until noon on July 3 when the Confederate line was repulsed.

The Board of Directors of the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association granted permission to the survivors of the 1st Maryland to build a monument showing their position on the field in October 1884. Some Union veterans opposed Confederate veterans desire to honor their dead. The first concession the 1st Maryland had to make was to use 2nd Maryland to avoid confusion with 2 union regiments who had fought nearby with the same numeric designation. The site of the monument is the position the unit occupied on July 2 when they broke into the Union defenses.

The monument is made up of a tapered die and topped with a polished granite ball. A large bas relief carving of the Maryland state seal is on the front. A Baltimore cross is on the four faces of the capstone since most of the men in the regiment were from the city or the surrounding area. The monument was dedicated in November 1866 with a large number of onlookers in attendance including the former brigade commander General Steuart. A smaller monument was built 100 yards inside Union lines to represent the point the unit reached during the fight on the morning of July 3, 1863.

Credits:
-Gray paper from Monstrosity add-on by Britt-ish Designs
-Yellow ribbon from Tale as old as Time by Britt-ish Designs and Suzy Q Scraps
-Branches from Sunshine in my soul by by Britt-ish Designs
-White flowers and beads from I'm Yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Yellow flowers from Sprite by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane

United States Regular Monument

The United States Regular Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling says:
The Army of the Potomac was primarily comprised of volunteer unites raised in individual states. The professional army of the United States was very small before the war and made up only a small portion of the Union army at Gettysburg. The regular troops were spread out in twenty-one artillery batteries, eleven infantry regiments, and four cavalry regiments. 171 regular soldiers lost their lives at Gettysburg, while 923 were wounded, and 281 were listed as missing in action.

The regular infantry were mostly in the two 5th Corps brigades under the command of Colonel Sidney Burbank and Colonel Hannibal day. They fought on the evening of July 2 in the Wheatfield and Devil’s Den areas. Regular artillery and cavalry units were spread out with their volunteer counterparts in the other Corps and fought all over the battlefield. The regular troops greatly contributed to the outcome of the battle. The places where they fought were marked with granite stones and bronze plaques detailing the history of the battle.

It was felt that there should be something to honor the men in the Regular army units. The United States Regulars monument is one of the largest on the battlefield. It is made up of a tall, obelisk shaft on a large granite base. Bronze plaques listing each regular regiment and battery that served here along with the commander’s name are on the main die. On the patio wall are bronze United States Seals and Crests. The obelisk was dedicated on Memorial Day in 1909 by President William Howard Taft along with a group of Regular Army soldiers who were there to honor their predecessors.

Credits:
-White paper, leaves, and whtie flowers from NEW I'm Yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Leaves from NEW Love you forever Ethan by Andilynn Designs
-String from Enchantment by Britt-ish Designs
-Blue flowers from Itty Bitty by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane

The Wheatfield

The Wheatfield at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling says:
On the morning of July 2, 1863 the 19 acre wheat field at the George Rose farm in Gettysburg, PA was like any other field. When the day was over it would forever be known as “The Wheatfield.” The fierce fighting of the day would leave the field littered with more than 4,000 dead and wounded Union and Confederate soldiers.

The battle began around 4:30 PM when a brigade of Georgian troops under the command of Brig. General George Anderson burst through the woods at the southern end of the field. They ran into Brig. General Regis de Trobriand’s Union regiments who were behind a stone wall. Some of the troops from de Trobriand’s unit had been sent as reinforcements to Devil’s Den. Though the Union army was outnumbered they managed to hold off the Confederate advance for almost an hour. Brig. General Anderson was able to maneuver his troops in front of the Union troops and conserve ammunition and manpower, but the Union troops stubbornly held their position. Reinforcements were badly needed as the Union troops ran out of ammunition. The 17th Maine infantry ran out of ammunition and were forced to withdraw. As they withdrew from the field Anderson’s men were able to swarm the wall. General David Birney ordered the 17th Maine to turn around and led them in a bayonet charge. This bayonet charge temporarily swept the Georgians from the field, but they would not give up. As the Georgians renewed their attack Union reinforcement arrived at the scene.

As the fighting continued at the southern end of the field Union troops trickled into the woods at the east and west. Here they met Confederate troops moving in from the Rose Farm. The fighting was fierce and raged for nearly an hour until the Union troops began to pull back. It was then that the famed Irish Brigade arrived and swept through the wheat field to push the Confederates off the knoll. General Joshn B Kershaw was determined to not give up and regrouped his men to continue the assault along with another Georgia brigade under the command of Brig. General Paul Semmes. Semmes was seriously wounded while his men counterattacked a brigade of Union reinforcements commanded by Colonel John Brooke. Semmes’ men were pushed back to the Rose farm at the point of a bayonet by the small Union regiment. The two sides found a back and forth battle in the orchards of the Rose Farm. The southern troops were relentless and the Union troops ended up withdrawing from the wheat field and surrounding woods. The fighting in this portion of the field was extremely close, often hand to hand.

Finally Brig. General Woffard’s brigade swept the field. By this time the field had grown quite except for the moans of the thousands wounded and dying. On average each unit had lost about a third of their men. This once peaceful field of glistening wheat had was left soaked in the blood and was one of the most bloodiest sites on the battle.

Credits:
-Totally templates - two pagers v.1 by WM [Squared] Designs
-Brown paper from Beach Bum by WM [Squared] Designs
-Yellow paper and string from My Hero by WM [Squared] Designs
-Leaves and stitching from Green and Serene
-Flowers from Boho Bliss by WM [Squared] Designs

New York Auxiliary Monument

The New York Auxiliary Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Journaling says:
The New York Auxiliary monument is one the more recent Union memorials at Gettysburg. The state of New York had 19 native sons serving as general officers in command of corps, divisions, or brigades, but statues had only been created to honor eight of them. The New York Battlefield Monuments Commission decided to create a memorial to all New Yorkers who commanded united at Gettysburg from the rank of major to major general. The monument would include the names of thirty-nine men along with the names of the army provost marshal, Marsena Patrick, and the Chief of Staff, General Daniel Butterfield who were both native New Yorkers.

The monument is made of Concord granite in a semicircular shape. The design radiates outward from the center. In the middle is a large granite eagle and laurel victor’s wreath. The forty-one names are carved on the panels. At the dedication there were almost 100 Civil War veterans in attendance and two-thirds had participated in the battled.

Credits:
-Light gray paper (recolored), dark blue flowers, lace (recolored), staples from Enchantment by Britt-ish Designs
-Leaves and white flowers from I'm Yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Dark gray paper from Monstrosity add-on by Britt-ish Designs-Blue ribbon from My Ribbon Jar by Britt-ish Designs
-Alpha from I'm a Dreamer by Britt-ish Designs
-Template from Wide Open Spaces template pack by Britt-ish Designs

Behind the stone wall

The 17th Maine Monument at Gettysburg National Military Park

Journaling says:
On the afternoon of July 2, 1863 the men of the 17th Maine took position along the stone wall that borders the southern end of the Wheatfield. At about 2:00 pm de Trobriand’s brigade, including the 17th Maine marched south and west towards what would later be known as the Wheatfield. The round tops loomed in the distance to their left. De Trobriand’s five regiments aligned themselves initially along the western base of a wooded hill along the western edge of the Wheatfield. When all the troops were aligned the line of the Third Corps stretched approximately two miles and was comprised of more than 10,000 officers and men. About 4:00 pm divisions of Maj. Gens. John B. Hood and Lafayette McLaws from Longstreet’s First Corps arrived and formed ranks. They numbered about 14,5000 officers and men and were considered to be among the best in the Confederate army. When the Confederates began their attack de Trobriand sent the 3rd Michigan to the Peach Orchard and the 40th New York and the 17th Maine to the left to aid Gen. J.H. Hobart Ward’s division. The Mainers trampled stalks of wheat as they moved at double-quick to get in position, carving one of many paths through the field. The commander of the 17th Maine, Lt. Col. Charles B. Merrill, halted the regiments along a low stone wall about thirty inches high that served as a divider between the Wheatfield and Rose’s Woods. While the Union troops sought shelter behind the wall, the Confederate troops sought cover behind trees and on the low ground near Plum Run. The fighting was fierce. Fire from Confederate troops filled the woods and enveloped the stone wall. The 115th Pennsylvania and 8th New Jersey arrived as reinforcements at just the precise moment as more Confederates were arriving. A while later the 115th Pennsylvania and 8th New Jersey withdrew to the Wheatfield which left the 17th Maine’s right flank exposed. This allowed the 8th and 9th Georgia units to rain fire into the exposed ranks. By this point the combat had escalated into a frenzy. There were times when the Confederates charged and made it to the low stone wall, which resulted in ferocious hand to hand combat. The Confederate attacks were halted and the Georgians withdrew into the woods. During the lull the Union troops tried to bolster their dwindling ammunition by fathering it from fallen comrades. They also took the chance to rest before the next wave of Confederate troops arrived. The next troop of Confederate troops to challenge the Union position were nearly 2,200 South Carolina troops under the command of Brig. Gen. Joseph Kershaw. They forced the 5th Michigan and 110th Pennsylvania off Stony Hill and sought to drive off the 17th Maine. The Georgian troops now renewed their attack, but the 17th Maine refused to budge. Colonel de Trobriand rode along the wall calling for the troops to retreat, but many did not hear the call and those that did were reluctant to retreat across the open Wheatfield since the wall offered protection. Finally one of Birney’s aides rode up with retreat instructions and the unit complied. They retreated, but were again called into action in the Wheatfield. Captain Joseph C. Briscoe led the 17th Maine to a ridgeline in the Wheatfield that was highly exposed. The 17th Maine was told to hold the ground. Many by this point had exhausted their ammunition and were told to fix bayonets. Groups of Georgians cross the stone wall that the 17th Maine had so fiercely defended, but were driven back to the wall by the Union troops. The 17th Maine was able to cling to the ridge for a half hour. Soon reinforcements from the Second Corp arrived and the 17th Maine was able to retire from the field. The 17th Maine was spared from fighting on July 3rd. During the course of the fighting on July 2nd suffered nearly 38% casualty rate.

The monument to the 17th Main is located at the spot where it’s unites colors were located during the battle. The most interesting feature is the figure at the top of the chiseled from a block of white Hallowell granite. The figure represents an infantryman holding his rifle “at the ready” behind a stone wall that still exits near the monument’s base. Around the soldier is some trampled wheat. The bronze plaque was added after the monument was erected. It tells the history of the regiment so that future generations can know what the 17th Maine did here.

Credits:
-Bunny Foo by Britt-ish Designs
-Itty Bitty by Britt-ish Designs and Erica Zane
-I'm Yours by Britt-ish Designs and DeCrow Designs
-Enchantment by Britt-ish Designs

We are the flank

This is a redo of a previous layout. This is the 20th Maine Infantry monument on Little Round Top at Gettysburg National Military Park.

Credits:
-History Lessons by Chelle's Creations