September 16, 2013

My favorite time of day to take a nice, leisurely battlefield drive is just before dusk, when we’ve already accomplished the “must-do’s” and are ready for a relaxing tour without any preconceived notions. The above photo was taken at such a time. I was standing just in front of Gen. Longstreet’s equestrian statue at Pitzer Woods, looking out toward West Confederate Avenue. I imagine that "Old Pete's" view at the time of the battle must have been very similar, considering that no monuments can be seen in the photo. The only “modern” attribute is probably Confederate Avenue.

The artillery battery located across the road at left represents Blount’s Battery, Dearing’s Battalion of Confederate artillery. Two 12-pounder Napoleons mark the spot. You’ll notice that the plaque is missing; it’s been that way for quite a few years, presumably having been removed for cleaning and repainting. The large white domed building in the distance is the Pennsylvania State Memorial along Cemetery Ridge. I’m not sure which barn can be seen: either Klingle or Sherfy.

**HONORED TODAY**

SGT. THOMAS BAT THOMPSON

Co. G, 52^ND North Carolina Infantry

Born April 30, 1833 --- August 1863 at age 30

Sgt. Thompson’s untimely death at Gettysburg was but one of three tragedies his family suffered . . . his brothers William and John also died as a result of the battle. Thomas left behind a wife Minerva and two children, Melville and Nancy. He could not rally after suffering a leg amputation and later being sent to Camp Letterman, and his final interment was at Oakwood Cemetery in Raleigh.


(c) 2013 Skies of Blue and Gray