Information Panel: Union Retreat-Strategic Crossing

Information Panel: Union Retreat and Strategic Crossing

Photo: NPS / Claire Hessler

Quick Facts

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

First Battle of Manassas, July 21, 1861, 6 a.m.

Originally constructed in 1825, the Stone Bridge carried the Warrenton Turnpike across Bull Run. Its ability to carry traffic across the steep-sided stream, even at times of high water, gave the bridge a key role in the Civil War. Both sides recognized its strategic importance. 

At daybreak, Union artillery fired from opening shots of First Manassas from a ridge one-half mile to the east (behind you). The attack was a ruse. The main Union column circled upstream instead, intending to surprise and outflank the Confederates by crossing at the unguarded Sudley Ford. 

Prior to abandoning the Manassas area, Confederate troops blew up the original bridge in March 1862. The current structure dates to 1884.

Second Battle of Manassas, Day Three, August 30, 1862, 9 p.m.

Under cover of darkness, the defeated Union army withdrew toward Centreville, four miles to the east. The troops crossed Bull Run on a makeshift wooden span, constructed several months earlier by Union engineers using the remaining bridge abutments. After the last soldiers filed across the stream, the replacement bridge was destroyed by the Union rear guard.