Mount Airy: “Under the Barrels”

History: During the Civil War, Co. K, 14th New Jersey Infantry, guarded the railroad and National Road at Mount Airy. An enslaved woman carried liquor to sell to the soldiers. Capt. Jacob J. Janeway made an example of her and the first soldier he caught buying liquor. Barrels were placed over the heads of the two culprits, who were then marched up and down the track at bayonet point, much to the amusement of the other soldiers and passengers on a train.

More to Explore: Browse through the specialty and gift shops in historic downtown Mount Airy to see what's unique or antique. Grab a bite to eat at one of the local eateries, and play a round of golf before continuing your journey.

Photo Credits:

1. "Photograph of Captain Jacob J. Janeway." Courtesy of the U.S. Army Military History Institute
2. "Photograph of Gen. David McM. Gregg. Gregg's cavalry division rode through Mount Airy in pursuit of Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart's cavalry that rode east unchecked, in order to defend the approaches to Baltimore and Washington."
3. "Photograph of Gen. John Sedgwick. Sedgwick's VI Corps marched by Mount Airy in the direction of Westminster to establish the right flank of the Pipe Creek Line at Manchester."
4. "Cavalry." Photos courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.