Gettysburg
Other Names: None
Location: Adams County
Campaign: Gettysburg Campaign (June-August 1863)
Date(s): July 1-3,
1863
Principal Commanders: Maj. Gen. George G. Meade [US];
Gen. Robert E. Lee [CS]
Forces Engaged: 158,300 total
(US 83,289; CS 75,054)
Estimated Casualties: 51,000 total (US 23,000; CS
28,000)
Description: Gen. Robert E. Lee concentrated
his full strength against Maj. Gen. George G. Meade’s Army of the Potomac at the crossroads county seat of Gettysburg. On July 1, Confederate forces
converged on the town from west and north, driving Union defenders back through
the streets to Cemetery Hill. During the night, reinforcements arrived for both
sides. On July 2, Lee attempted to envelop the Federals, first striking the
Union left flank at the Peach Orchard, Wheatfield, Devil’s Den, and the Round
Tops with Longstreet’s and Hill’s divisions, and then attacking the Union right
at Culp’s and East Cemetery Hills with Ewell’s divisions. By evening, the
Federals retained Little Round Top and had repulsed most of Ewell’s men. During
the morning of July 3, the Confederate infantry were driven from their last
toe-hold on Culp’s Hill. In the afternoon, after a preliminary artillery
bombardment, Lee attacked the Union center on Cemetery Ridge. The
Pickett-Pettigrew assault (more popularly, Pickett’s Charge) momentarily
pierced the Union line but was driven back with severe casualties. Stuart’s
cavalry attempted to gain the Union rear but was repulsed. On July 4, Lee began
withdrawing his army toward Williamsport on the Potomac River. His train of
wounded stretched more than fourteen miles.
Result(s): Union victory
CWSAC Reference #: PA002
Preservation Priority: I.2 (Class A)
National Park Unit: Gettysburg
NMP