3rd Michigan Infantry

Engaged on July 2 at the Peach Orchard, the 3rd Michigan was commanded at Gettysburg by Col. Byron R. Pierce (1829-1924), a dentist from Grand Rapids.  Wounded in action at the Peach Orchard, Pierce’s left leg had to be amputated; he was later promoted to brigadier general in 1865.  Lt. Col. Edwin S. Pierce (1831-1912) took command from his brother.  The regiment formed the right of De Trobriand’s brigade.

Raised from the counties of Ionia, Kent, Muskegon, and Ottawa, there were almost 300 members at Gettysburg.

The monument features a bas relief carving of two soldiers in action at Gettysburg.  The monument also features a bronze state crest on the top and a diamond — symbolic of the Third Corps.

3rd Michigan Infantry

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

Commanded by:  Col. Byron R. Pierce (1829-1924)

Engaged: 286; 7 killed, 31 wounded, 7 missing

Monument: The Peach Orchard

Tags: Gettysburg, III Corps, Michigan, Monument Project, Peach Orchard