Existing comment:
From Civil War to Civil Rights:
In 1862 Union soldiers forced Edmund Chambers, this farm's first owner (1848-1869), from his home. The farm became a battlefield, where Confederate General A.P. Hill struck the winning blow of the Battle of Harpers Ferry. Union General Philip Sheridan built fortified earthworks here in 1864 to protect Harpers Ferry from Confederate attack.
In 1895 the displaced John Brown's Fort found a resting place here. Alexander Murphy, the farm's new owner, allowed the fort's reconstruction here and permitted public access. The fort -- a symbol of freedom to those once enslaved -- became a shrine and helped inspire early civil rights advancements for African Americans. For over 130 years, Murphy's descendents preserved the farm in the pristine condition you see today.
Major General A.P. Hill was "Stonewall" Jackson's most respected general. Twice during the month preceding the Battle of Harpers Ferry, Hill's Light Division saved Jackson's army at critical moments. Jackson chose Hill to accomplish the most difficult assignment at Harpers Ferry, which ultimately led to the Union's capture.
(Picture caption) Niagara Movement members visit John Brown's Fort, 1906.
Battle of Harpers Ferry:
Invasion rocked the United States during the second year of the American Civil War. In September 1862, Confederate General Robert E. Lee launched his army into Maryland -- the North. Lee's first target became Harpers Ferry. He ordered "Stonewall" Jackson to make the attack.
Here Jackson overcame great obstacles, defeating the Union during a three-day battle and forcing the largest surrender of U.S. troops during the Civil War. His victory at Harpers Ferry enabled Lee to make his stand at nearby Antietam.
"At their, first missiles of death fell far short of our camp; but each succeeding shell came nearer and nearer, until the earth was plowed up at our feet, and our tents torn to tatters."
-- Lieutenant James H. Clark, 115th New York Infantry |