The Vermont Brigade
Posted to the Project on 22 Jul 07
Today’s monument study is the Vermont Brigade monument. This monument is often referred to as belonging to the First Vermont Brigade, or Grant’s Vermont Brigade.
Representing the 2nd Vermont (commanded by Col. James H. Walbridge), the 3rd Vermont (commanded by Col. Thomas O. Seaver), the 4th Vermont (commanded by Col. Charles B. Stoughton), the 5th Vermont (commanded by Lt. Col. Randolph B. Lewis), and the 6th Vermont (commanded by Col. Elisha L. Barney), this monument is one of the most striking at Gettysburg. It is located on Wright Avenue, the “back way in” to Little Round Top. The obvious feature of the monument is the large carved lion. The Sixth Corp’s Greek Cross is also prominently featured.
The First Vermont Brigade was one of the hardest fighting units in the Army of the Potomac, but by a twist of fate suffered only very mild casualties at Gettysburg due to being held in reserve with most of the Sixth Corps. Nevertheless, visitors to Gettysburg should note that they are looking at a monument that represents a very hard fighting unit.
The First Vermont Brigade - 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Regiments
Members of the Sixth Corps, 2nd Division, 2nd Brigade
Commanded by Col. James H. Walbridge (1826-1913); Col. Thomas O. Seaver (1833-1912); Col. Charles B. Stoughton (1841-1898); Lt. Col. John R. Lewis (1834-1900); and Col. Elisha L. Barney (1832-1864), respectively.
Engaged: 528; 428; 437 (1 wounded); 341; 362
Collective Monument: Wright Avenue, off the Taneytown Pike heading between Little and Big Round Tops