I'm so eager to get back to Gettysburg. I travel there every year. Have you been there yet? If not, be sure to stop by the East Cavalry Battlefield.
As you know, Pickett's charge was to be supported by a charge into the Union's rear by Stuart's cavalry but they were spotted en route. George Armstrong Custer took control of the Michigan calvary and led a hard, surprise charge into Stuart's column.
The Confederates broke and retreated in disarray. This audacious movement cemented Custer's reputation. Later, Grant took him to Lee's surrender and the signing table was a gift to Custer's wife Libby.
For whatever reason this is a very overlooked event. One can imagine if at the same time Pickett was advancing that Stuart's cavalry was charging in from the rear. It would have been a whole different scenario. Later, when General Pickett was asked, "Why did your attack at Gettysburg fail?" he dryly replied, "I always thought the Yankees had something to do with it."
By the way, did you know that the first outfit I joined when I began reenacting years ago was the 1st Maine Cavalry? I rode my Arabian horse Cody during events.
This regiment saw major action in the eastern theater with key engagements at Brandy Station, Gettysburg (East Cavalry Field), Antietam, Fredericksburg, Cold Harbor, and the final Appomattox Campaign. It was mustered out in August 1865 in Petersburg, VA. It was the cavalry regiment that lost the highest number of men killed in action during the war.
Below: Running up Hancock Blvd in July, 2022.
