Draw the Sword

Scales’ Brigade

Location: West Confederate Avenue, McMillian Woods

Order of Battle: Scales’ Brigade, Pender’s Division, Hill’s Corps

Commander: Brig. Gen. Alfred Moore Scales (November 26, 1827 – February 9, 1892) was a North Carolina state legislature, Confederate General in the American Civil War and the 45th Governor of the U.S. state of North Carolina from 1885 to 1889, and Congressman.

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
HILL’S CORPS PENDER’S DIVISION
SCALES’ BRIGADE
13th 16th 22nd 38th North Carolina Infantry

July 1. Crossed Willoughby Run about 3.30 P. M. relieving Heth’s line and advancing with left flank on Chambersburg Pike took part in the struggle until it ended. When the Union forces made their final stand on Seminary Ridge the Brigade charged and aided in dislodging them but suffered heavy losses. Gen. A. M. Scales was wounded and all the field officers but one were killed or wounded.

July 2. In position near here with skirmishers out in front and on flank.

July 3. In Longstreet’s assault the Brigade supported the right wing of Pettigrew’s Division. With few officers to lead them the men advanced in good order through a storm of shot and shell and when the front line neared the Union works they pushed forward to aid it in the final struggle and were among the last to retire.

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

Present about 1250 Killed 102 Wounded 381 Missing 116 Total 599

Other Monuments and Memorials: None.

Supplemental Materials: After Action Report of Brig. Gen. A. M. Scales (will open a pop up window).