Last updated: February 9, 2024
Place
Information Panel: Jackson Opens Fire
Photo: NPS / Claire Hassler
Quick Facts
Amenities
1 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
Observing a column of tired, unsuspecting Federal troops marching eastward on the Western Pike (U.S. Rte. 29 today), General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson chose to reveal his position and draw the Union Army of Virginia into battle on ground favoring the Confederates. The Federals raced for cover along the roadside as Confederate shells burst overhead. The Battle of Second Manassas had begun.
Two division of Jackson's hardened infantry swarmed from the wooded ridge behind the house but met unexpected stiff resistance from six Union regiments that advanced from the turnpike. Confederate division commanders William Taliaferro and Richard Ewell were severely wounded in the intense, close range firefight that continued until darkness fell. The fight at Brawner's Farm ended in stalemate leaving Jackson frustrated by his troops' inability to break the Union line.
"My command was advanced... until it reached a commanding position near Brawner's house. By this time it was sunset; but as [the Union] column appeared to be moving by, with its flank exposed, I determined to attack at once". - Confederate Gen. Thomas J. Jackson, 1862
Two division of Jackson's hardened infantry swarmed from the wooded ridge behind the house but met unexpected stiff resistance from six Union regiments that advanced from the turnpike. Confederate division commanders William Taliaferro and Richard Ewell were severely wounded in the intense, close range firefight that continued until darkness fell. The fight at Brawner's Farm ended in stalemate leaving Jackson frustrated by his troops' inability to break the Union line.
"My command was advanced... until it reached a commanding position near Brawner's house. By this time it was sunset; but as [the Union] column appeared to be moving by, with its flank exposed, I determined to attack at once". - Confederate Gen. Thomas J. Jackson, 1862