The Engineer Brigade was also known as Benham’s Brigade. During the battle of Gettysburg, it served as a member of the Artillery Reserve, Army of the Potomac.
About the Main Monument
When was it dedicated? Erected circa 1912.
What is it made out of? Foundation: Concrete. Monument: Polished smooth sea-green granite. Plaque: Bronze.
What size is it? 36′ by 36′ base. Weight: 300 Pounds. Height 5’4″. Tablet measures 4 feet by 3 feet 8 inches.
Who made it? Albert Russell & Sons Co. of Newburyport, Massachusetts. Erected by the United States War Department.
What does it depict? Monolith consisting of polished smooth sea-green granite pedestal with a square base. Base tapers to a smaller dimension at the tablet. On each pedestal is mounted a bronze inscription tablet describing the movements and actions of the unit.
What does it honor? One of 74 Union brigade monuments erected at Gettysburg by the United States War Department to describe the movements and itinerary of each Union brigade of the Army of the Potomac. The monuments were designed by E.B. Cope. Many of the inscription tablets were made of bronze melted down from Civil War cannons.
How is it inscribed? The monument reads,
ARMY OF THE POTOMAC
ENGINEER BRIGADE
Brig. Gen. Henry W. Benham
15th New York (3 Companies)
Major Walter L Cassin
50th New York
Col. William H. Pettes
United States Battalion
Capt. George H. Mendell
Engaged in arduous duties from June 13 to July 18 1863 bridging rivers and transporting pontoons to enable the Army to cross the Potomac River and its tributaries into Pennsylvania and to recross into Virginia.
When was this photograph taken? September 3, 2007.
Where is it located? Located Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania 17325. Pleasonton Avenue, Cemetery Ridge.
Is this monument located along the NPS Auto Tour route? No.
Has this monument been moved or changed? This monument has not been changed or materially altered.
At Gettysburg
Commander: Brig. Gen. Henry Washington Benham (April 17, 1813 – July 1, 1884) was an American soldier and civil engineer who served as a general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. More about this officer.
After Action Report: After Action Report of Brig. Gen. Henry W. Benham (will open a pop up window).
AOP at Gettysburg
Army of the Potomac – Main Monument – Itinerary Tablets – Hospitals – Provost Guard & HQ – Engineer Brigade
