Last updated: January 19, 2024
Place
Information Panel: The Fight for Matthews Hill
Photo: NPS / Claire Hassler
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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
First Battle of Manassas, July 21, 1861, 10 a.m.
Fighting opened here on Matthews Hill as Colonel Ambrose Burnside's brigade, leading the Union flanking column, collided with Confederates. Six James Rifles of the 2nd Rhode Island Battery established an advantageous position on the crest while Union infantry pressed forward into a cornfield beyond. With each few minutes that passed, more Federals reached the front.
Yet Union forces encountered stiff resistance. Confederate troops made headlong charges in a bold show of force that disguised their true weakness in numbers. It took over ninety minutes to dislodge the stubborn Confederates. Despite the unexpected delays, the Union commander emerged confident of success. General McDowell triumphantly announced "Victory! Victory! The day is ours!" The proclamation proved premature.