Last updated: February 12, 2024
Place
Information Panel: Battling For The Rocky Knoll
Photo: NPS / Claire Hassler
Quick Facts
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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
Stonewall Jackson's defensive line extended nearly two miles- from Sudley Church to the Brawner Farm. Many of his 24,000 troops were posted behind the cuts and fills of the unfinished railroad grade before you. The formidable position enabled Jackson to confront the enemy twice the size of his own command until Longstreet's troops could reach the battlefield.
Throughout the day, the heaviest attacks fell on General Maxey Gregg's South Carolina brigade, which anchored the left end of the Confederate line. Crowded atop a rocky knoll behind the railroad grade, Gregg's 1,200 men with stood six separate assaults. With his brigade on the brink of collapse, Gregg brandished his grandfather's Revolutionary War sword, waved it around his head, and exhorted, "Let us die here, my men, let us die here!" His words rallied the troops. Although outnumbered, exhausted, and nearly out of ammunition, Gregg's line held.
Throughout the day, the heaviest attacks fell on General Maxey Gregg's South Carolina brigade, which anchored the left end of the Confederate line. Crowded atop a rocky knoll behind the railroad grade, Gregg's 1,200 men with stood six separate assaults. With his brigade on the brink of collapse, Gregg brandished his grandfather's Revolutionary War sword, waved it around his head, and exhorted, "Let us die here, my men, let us die here!" His words rallied the troops. Although outnumbered, exhausted, and nearly out of ammunition, Gregg's line held.