73rd New York Infantry

The 73rd New York was part of the Excelsior Brigade; this is the only unit in that Brigade with it’s own regimental monument on the field.  Known as the “2nd Fire Zouaves” this regiment was recruited in part from the New York City fire department.  The monument features 7 foot tall bronze stautes of a fireman and an infantryman — representive of the dual role held by many members of the regiment.  It was sculpted by Joseph Moretti and was dedicated on September 6, 1897.  It cost $5,000.00.

The regiment came from mainly New York City and Kings county.  It was commanded by Maj. Michael W. Burns (1834-1883), an Irish born fireman who had the distinct misfortune to be brought up three times on misconduct charges.

73rd New York Infantry

3d Corps, 2nd Division, 2d Brigade

Maj. Michael William Burns (1834-1883)

Engaged: 507; 51 killed, 103 wounded, 8 missing

Monument: Excelsior Field, Sickles Avenue

Tags: Gettysburg, III Corps, Monument Project, New York