Leitersburg

Address: 
intersection of Ringold Street and Ringold Pike (County Route 418), Hagerstown, MD 21742

Leitersburg: Retreat into Maryland

History: It was a miserable night. Heavy rain and thickening mud intensified the agony of retreat after losing a battle. As 3 a.m. neared on July 5, 1863, the van of Confederate retreat from Gettysburg arrived here at Leitersburg. The men had marched nonstop for nearly twelve hours, on their scramble to Williamsport, the Potomac River - and safety. Suddenly, the 1st Vermont Cavalry dashed onto the road and captured men, horses, mules, cattle and wagons. The Federals moved on toward Hagerstown and Boonsboro in search of more Confederates. Meanwhile, the Leitersburg train continued unmolested toward the Potomac.

More to Explore: After checking out Leitersburg, take a scenic drive east into the Catoctin Mountains, where Catoctin Mountain Park offers spectacular overlooks, camping and trails, and Cunningham Falls State Park features its popular waterfall. Or drive southwest into Hagerstown where dining and entertainment await you. Take in a Broadway show or concert by the Maryland Symphony Orchestra at the Maryland Theatre. A dinner theater, comedy clubs, and night life round out Hagerstown's offerings.

Photo Credits:

  1. "Landscape oil painting of the Escape of the Army of Virginia, commanded by General Lee, over the Potomac River near Williamsport."
  2. "Pencil drawing of distant view of Emmitsburg, scene of the rebel horse raid; Union soldiers following up the rebel army." Prints courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.