Interpretive Panel: Final Stand

Interpretive Panel: Final Stand

NPS / Claire Hassler

Quick Facts

Location:

Frederick, Maryland

Significance:

Location of Union Forces during the Battle of Monocacy

Designation:

National Battlefield, National Register of Historic Places, National Historic Landmark

Amenities

4 listed

Audio Description, Cellular Signal, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Parking - Auto

The Final Stand Wayside is located on the southbound side of Araby Church Road roughly 200 yards north of the intersection with Baker Valley Road. There is a pull off and parking area that will accommodate multiple vehicles in front of the wayside. The wayside addresses the actions of Union troops during the Battle of Monocacy on the east end of the Thomas Farm just off the Georgetown Pike and north of Baker Valley Road.

During the Battle of Monocacy, Union Troops stationed along this section of the Georgetown Pike (modern day Araby Church Road) held Confederate forces at bay for most of the day. After Confederate troops crossed the river at the ford on the Worthington Farm, Union General Lew Wallace ordered the bridge over the river burned and shifted Union forces to the Thomas Farm.

"The rebels attacked charging in several close lines on our single line. They were repulsed twice with very heavy loss...the road and yard were literally filled with them." -Sergeant James Reed, 10th Vermont Infantry

Around 4:30 p.m. the Union front collapsed and fell back to the Georgetown Pike, where they used the protection of the road bank in their final stand. With their superior numbers, Confederate troops broke through the Union line. With the battle lost, Union forces retreated.