Major James Breathed

History: Major James Breathed was born in present-day Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, on December 15, 1838, but his family moved to Washington County, Maryland when we was still young. During the Civil War, he served as a lieutenant in the 1st Virginia Cavalry under Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart, and later as a major in Stuart's Horse Artillery. He returned to Hancock after the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court House, and his family was among the founders of St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Major James Breathed died on February 14, 1870, and is buried in St. Thomas Episcopal Church Cemetery.

More to Explore: Stop at Hancock Museum to see geological exhibits about the rock formations at Sideling Hill, then drive 6 miles west to the rest area along I-68 to view Sideling Hill in person. The I-68 road cut through the crest of Sideling Hill in western Washington County, Maryland, created one of the best geologic exposures in the northeastern United States. Revealing a cross section through a synclinal ridge, this massive cut has proven to be a significant educational and research tool and tourist attraction.

Photo Caption:

1. "Major James Breathed."