The final battle of Gettysburg, called "Pickett's Charge," took place on July 3, 1863. General Robert Lee sent about 12,500 men to march in close formation across this field you see before you, about 1 mile across, to challenge the Union forces on the other side of the field.
This is a Confederate cannon, pointing towards the final goal - the tiny copse of trees at the edge of the field. If you view on black, it becomes apparent how very far away this goal is.
The Confederates were subjected to withering fire during their march, both by Union cannon and, later, rifles. Finally, some troops made it to the other side, but were beaten back by General Meade's Union defenders.
Apparently, many scholars call this battle the "high water mark of the Confederacy." There is a memorial to this effect on the other side of the field. Lee retreated from Gettysburg and, although the Civil War lasted another two years, the Confederacy never really recovered.
The Union lost about 1,500 soldiers, killed or wounded. The Confederate casualty rate was over 50%, with 6,555 soldiers killed, wounded or captured. For just this one battle.
Tomorrow, I'll post the view from the other side of the field. Thanks for stopping by and tolerating the history natterings, but I found this place compelling.
10/1/2020: Finished year 7 (!), with continuing gratitude towards this amazing community. Based in St. Louis, MO. Regular worker-bee and self-taught photography dilettante....
Definitely compelling and chillingly horrific too. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up reading your excellent historical background. Without that, it's just a cannon in a paddock. What a tragic waste of lives wars are.
I like your POV and look forward to tomorrow's.
"That old man had my division slaughtered." ~George Pickett~
"It was my fault, and I am very sorry." ~Robert E. Lee~
@janeandcharlie You know - we learned that Pickett never forgave "the old man." It was humbling to stand at the place where Lee meet his defeated troops, to greet them home, and admit his failings. Thanks for the thoughtful quotes.
"That old man had my division slaughtered." ~George Pickett~
"It was my fault, and I am very sorry." ~Robert E. Lee~