The Wagoners' Fight: Teamsters Help Save the Army

History: Union forces were in hot pursuit of retreating Confederates from Gettysburg on July 6, 1863. With the flooded Potomac River preventing Confederate General John Imboden's escape at Williamsport, and with Confederate General Robert E. Lee's main infantry column still miles away, Imboden had to stand alone. Imboden improvised reinforcements by organizing his wagons under wounded officers, commissionaires, and quartermasters. Meanwhile, two Union cavalry divisions almost 7,000 strong, galloped toward Williamsport to destroy the wagon train and cut off the Confederate escape route. Union General John Buford arrived first along this road and attacked Imboden's line for five hours, but failed to dislodge it. As darkness approached, word passed that the Confederate cavalry reinforcements were arriving, forcing the Federal troops to retreat.

More to Explore: Discover unique shops in the Town Center of Williamsport, play in Byron Memorial Park, and visit the Town Museum in the Barn at Springfield Farm. Then, enjoy a peaceful paddle on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and visit the C & O Canal National Historic Park's Visitor Center to tour exhibits or join a Ranger-guided program. Kayak and canoe rentals can be found on E. Potomac Street across the street from St. Augustine's Church in Williamsport.

Photo Credits:

1. "Salisbury Street, Down Which Lee Marched on His Retreat from Gettysburg, Williamsport, MD." Courtesy of Town Museum of Williamsport
2. "Photograph negative portrait of Brig. Gen. John D. Imboden of the Confederate Army." Courtesy of Library of Congress Photographs and Prints Division