Last updated: February 12, 2024
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Information Panel: Defending The Cannon
Photo: NPS / Claire Hassler
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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
Second Battle of Manassas, Day Three, August 30, 1862, 5:30 p.m.
As the Ohioans strived to delay the Confederates, Federal reinforcements rushed to Chinn Ridge in support. With these troops came the 5th Battery, Maine Light Artillery, under the temporary command of Lt. William F. Twitchell. The five guns unlimbered here atop the ridge, but the retreating Ohioans momentarily obstructed their field of fire.
With the onrushing Confederates nearly upon them, the battery unleashed a thunderous volley of canister that "seemed to shake the very Earth." The blast caused the Confederate line to shudder. Colonel Frederick Skinner of the 1st Virginia Infantry rode into the maelstrom welding his sword. Following his example, the Confederates swarmed the battery and captured four of the cannon.
The fight swirled around the guns for the next thirty minutes. This stubborn pocket of resistance cost the Confederates many lives and valuable time. Meanwhile, Federal reserves assembled in the rear to stave off disaster. By the time the Confederate forces overcame Union opposition on Chinn Ridge, fresh Federal troops were waiting along Sudley Road and on the slopes of Henry Hill.