Pvt. Benjamin Welsh Owens Memorial: Outstanding Example of Courage

History: This monument honors the memory of a local man, Benjamin Welch Owens, who left his nearby West River farm to join Confederate forces during the Civil War. Owens was among the tens of thousands of men from Maryland who made their way south. He joined the 1st Maryland Flying Artillery, C.S.A, which was composed of men from southern Maryland, the Eastern Shore, and Baltimore.

His unit engaged Union forces on June 15, 1863 at Stephenson’s Depot near Winchester, Virginia, during the Gettysburg Campaign. Owens defended a key railroad bridge alone after theother members of his gun crew were killed or wounded.

Pvt. Owens returned to Anne Arundel County after the war and was appointed deputy county clerk. Owenswas awarded the Confederate Medal of Honor posthumously by the Sons of Confederate Veterans in 1993, one of only 43 men, and the only Marylander, to receive it.

More to Explore: Just down the road you’ll find the Parris N. Glendening Nature Preserve and Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary in Lothian. Enjoy a naturalist-guided program, explore the nature center or stroll along a nature trail. For a real treat, join a canoe or kayak trip to explore the native flora and ecology of this pristine marsh.

Also nearby is the Show Place Arena & Prince George’s Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro. Check their schedule for public horse show events.

Photo Credits: 1^st Maryland Cavalry Company C, CSA and battle flag