Attack at Goose Creek Bridge: "Take that Bridge At All Hazards"

History: On June 21, 1863, Confederate Gen. Wade Hampton continued to try to delay the Union Cavalry's advance, to allow Confederate General Robert E. Lee to move northward. Hampton took up a strong position on the steep ridge on the northern side of Goose Creek. Confederate horse batteries opened fire at Union soldiers on the high ground to the east across Goose Creek. Federal cannon batteries returned direct fire at an unrelenting pace. A company of New York cavalry attempted to seize the bridge, but failed when met with artillery fire. In failing to take the bridge, Union Gen. Alfred Pleasonton called up Col. Strong Vincent's veteran infantry brigade. Moving down the slopes in concentrated force, the infantry crossed the creek while cavalry crossed the bridge. Federal infantry moved up the creek's northern incline, threw back the Confederate forces and held the bridge once more.

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Photo Credits:

1. “Photograph of Confederate General Wade Hampton.”
2. “Photograph of Union General Alfred Pleasonton.”
3. “Print of construction of a railway bridge over Goose Creek near Manassas Gap.” Prints courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division.