Battle of Shepherdstown

History: As General Lee crossed the Potomac River back to Virginia, Union forces attacked his rear guard. Fierce fighting ensued on September 19-20, 1862; Shepherdstown already was filled with wounded soldiers from the Battle of Antietam. Nearby is Boteler's Ford, where Lee crossed the river; Ferry Hill plantation, the home of Confederate officer Henry Kyd Douglas; and Antietam National Battlefield.

More to Explore: The area is rich not just in history but in outdoor recreation; the Potomac River is popular with white-water rafters and paddlers, and the C&O Canal towpath is ideal for hiking and biking.

Photo Credit: “Raft of blanket boats ferrying field artillery and men over Potomac River” Courtesy of: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division