Battle of Funkstown: At Bay Another Day

History: During the Confederate retreat to Virginia following the Battle of Gettysburg, Union troops attempted to advance against General Robert E. Lee, who was positioned near Williamsport and the Potomac River. Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart's cavalry, posted at Funkstown, posed a serious risk to the Federals if the Union army lunged west from Boonsboro. As General John Buford's Federal cavalry division approached Funkstown via the National Road on Friday morning July 10, 1863, it encountered Stuart's crescent-shaped, three-mile-long battle line. Stuart defended his position to ensure Lee had time to protect his army and his avenue of retreat. This was the first time opposing infantry had clashed since Gettysburg. General Buford was assisted by Union Colonel Thomas Devin's dismounted Union brigade and Colonel Lewis Grant's Vermont Brigade of infantry. By early evening, the Union army began withdrawing south toward Beaver Creek; Stuart had kept the Federals at bay for yet another day.

More to Explore: Visit downtown Funkstown where The Chaney House, built in 1816, was the home of Dr. Elias Chaney and his slaves, and now houses an antique shop. Enjoy sports and outdoor recreation at Washington County Regional Park, also located in Funkstown. It is fully equipped with softball and multipurpose fields, playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts. For cultural entertainment, visit nearby Hagerstown, which offers dinner theaters, art museums and The Maryland Theatre, the home of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra.

Photo Credits:

1. "Confederate General George T. Anderson"
2. "Union Colonel Lewis A. Grant." Photos courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.