Draw the Sword

Pettigrew’s Brigade

Location: West Confederate Avenue, south of McMillan Woods

Order of Battle: Pettigrew’s Brigade, Heth’s Division, Hill’s Corps

Commander: Brig. Gen. James Johnston Pettigrew (July 4, 1828 – July 17, 1863) was an author, lawyer, linguist, diplomat, and a Confederate general in the American Civil War. He was a major leader in the disastrous Pickett’s Charge and was killed a few days after the Battle of Gettysburg during the Confederate retreat to Virginia.

Monument Specifications: Polished granite circular base with bronze plaque affixed to front.

Dedication Date: ca. 1910-1911.

Main Inscription: Reads,

C. S. A.
ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA
HILLS CORPS HETH’S DIVISION
PETTIGREW’S BRIGADE
11th 26th 47th 52nd North Carolina Infantry

July 1. Crossing Willoughby Run at 2 P. M. met the 1st Brigade 1st Division First Corps in Reynolds Woods and drove it back after a bloody struggle. Advancing to the summit of the ridge encountered and broke a second Union line and was then relieved by troops of Pender’s Division.

July 2. Lay in woods west of the Run. In evening took position near here.

July 3. In Longstreet’s assault the Brigade occupied the right center of the Division and the course of the charge brought it in front of the high stone wall north of the Angle and 80 yards farther east, it advanced very nearly to that wall. A few reached it but were captured. The skeleton regiments retired led by Lieutenants and the Brigade by a Major the only field officer left.

July 4. After night withdrew and began the march to Hagerstown.

Present on the first day about 2000 Killed 190 Wounded 915 Missing about 300 Total 1405

Other Monuments and Memorials: None.

Supplemental Materials: After Action Report of Maj J. Jones (will open a pop up window).