January 8, 2014

Little Round Top “castle” in the fall

Despite this being a monument constructed decades after the battle, it somehow seems to fit in with the natural landscape. One could easily imagine that this is a photo of some obscure European castle with a protective stone wall above a field of waving weeds. In actuality, it’s the 12^TH and 44^TH New York Infantry monument, and the stone wall was built on July 03^RD to protect Union defenders from a possible second onslaught by Confederate attackers. This shot is quite unique in the sense that there are no people on the photo. The “castle” is usually full to the brim with tourists and photo-seekers. I guess the cold November day was just too much for them!

**HONORED TODAY**

PVT. LUMAN FRANCIS FAIRBANKS

Co. H, 16^TH Massachusetts Infantry

Born February 22, 1842 --- Died July 02, 1863 at age 21

Pvt. Fairbanks enlisted in June 1861 at the age of 18, perhaps thinking he would experience a life of adventure and patriotism. Somehow he managed to survive two years in the army --- and then the 16^TH Massachusetts came to Gettysburg. They took up position in what is now a strip of land between Emmitsburg Road and Sickles Avenue, holding on for dear life. Pvt. Fairbanks died in battle and was later buried in Weeks Cemetery in Marlborough, MA.


(c) 2013-2014 Skies of Blue and Gray