HistoricSiteMarkers
Civil War

Gettysburg Campaign

Cumberland Township, Adams County, Pennsylvania

Marker Inscription

The Battle of Gettysburg began here the morning of July 1, 1863, when Union cavalry scouts under Gen. Buford met Gen. Hill's army advancing from the west. Arrival of Gen. Ewell's army that afternoon drove Union troops to south of the town.

Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

The Story

On the morning of July 1, 1863, the Battle of Gettysburg opened when Union cavalry under John Buford met A. P. Hill's advancing Confederates coming from the west. Buford's dismounted troopers bought precious time until infantry could arrive, but the appearance of Ewell's corps that afternoon forced the outnumbered Union men back through the town. The stage was set for two more days of decisive fighting.

Why it matters

This opening clash began the battle widely regarded as the turning point of the Civil War, where the Union stopped Lee's invasion of the North.

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Related people

  • · John Buford
  • · A. P. Hill
  • · Richard Ewell

Related events

  • · Gettysburg Campaign
  • · Battle of Gettysburg

Themes & tags

Civil WarBattlefield

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