First Battle of Hagerstown: Vicious Fighting in the Streets

History: Holding Hagerstown was crucial to Gen. Robert E. Lee's retreat to Virginia after the Battle of Gettysburg. If the Confederates lost this crossroads town, Lee's access to the Potomac River would be seriously hampered. The Federals recognized Hagerstown's importance, and just before noon on July 6, 1863, Gen. H. Judson Kilpatrick's cavalry division galloped north on Potomac Street, charging into three Virginia brigades. A wild melee of mounted charges and dismounted duels ensued for six hours. The arrival of Confederate infantry finally compelled the Federals to abandon their effort to seize Hagerstown.

More to Explore: Everyone is sure to find something that fits their lifestyle when shopping in Hagerstown and the surrounding area. From department stores to designer names to specialty shops and antiques, it is an experience like no other. Start at the Hagerstown Premium Outlets, check out the Valley Mall, and don't miss the country shops, antique and home decorator shops in Hagerstown and nearby Funkstown, Boonsboro and Williamsport.

Photo Credits:

1. "Hagerstown in 1867." Courtesy of the Washington County Historical Society.
2. "Photograph of Confederate General Alfred Iverson. The arrival of Iverson's North Carolina Infantry Brigade into Hagerstown caused the Federal soldiers to abandon their effort to seize Hagerstown."
3. "Photograph of Union General H. Judson Kilpatrick." Photos courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.