Focus: the 17th Maine Infantry

One of the most beautiful regimental monuments on the field, the 17th Maine served in De Trobriand’s brigade in the Third Corps.

The regiment actually has two monuments at Gettysburg — this one along De Trobriand Avenue and another marker along Hancock Avenue (where the unit spent July 3, 1863).

Raised from the companies of Cumberland, Franklin, Oxford, York, and Androscoggin in the late summer of 1862, the 17th Maine fought in the Wheatfield at Gettysburg and suffered 18 killed, 112 wounded, and 3 missing of 392 engaged.

The monument, made of granite like many Gettysburg memorials, was dedicated on October 10, 1888. It represents the stubborn fight the men of the 17th Maine made behind a stonewall on the edge of the infamous Wheatfield. The monument stands at the spot where the colors of the regiment stood on July 2, 1863. The infantryman holds his rifle at the “ready” position while partly hidden by a stonewall. Close inspection reveals trampled wheat beneath his feet. The monument also contains inset diamonds in red granite — symbols of the first division of the Third Corps.

This is the most expensive Maine monument at Gettysburg. The total height is 20.5.’

Members of the 3rd Corps, 1st Division, 3rd Brigade

Commanded by Lt. Col. Benjamin Merrill (1827-1891)

Lost 18 killed, 112 wounded, 3 missing of 292 engaged

Monuments: De Trobriand Avenue (Wheatfield) and Hancock Avenue

Tags: Gettysburg, III Corps, Maine, Monument Project, Wheatfield