Introduction
Reinterpreting events from the past is an important part of historical studies. The reevaluation of accepted beliefs in light of new information or interpretations is an essential part of the continuing search for understanding. In this respect we are fortunate to present in this issue several articles that shed new light on established versions of events. We begin with a rethinking of the events on Little Round Top on July 2 by George M. George, Daniel R. George, and Anthony Kellon. In their work, the authors seek to reexamine the importance of the defense of Little Round Top in light of Lee’s overall strategy and its contribution to the defense of the Federal left. In the process, they also examine a crucial decision made by Confederate Col. William Oates and the influence it may have had on the outcome of the assault.
Judkin Browning investigates another iconic story from Gettysburg, the attack of the Twenty-Sixth North Carolina along Seminary Ridge on July 1. Reviewing the sources on which the enshrined story is based, he finds considerable variation in their accounts, as well as some accounts whose authenticity may be in question. Browning’s reexamination of these sources in light of other evidence suggests that some revisions in the accepted version of events may be warranted. Continuing in the vein of reinterpretation, Douglas R. Kleinsmith examines the general assumption that if Confederate Gen. Richard Ewell had only continued pushing forward on July 1, Cemetery and Culp’s Hills would easily have fallen into Rebel hands. Based on “the condition of the forces immediately available, the lack of intelligence they had on the enemy and terrain, the time left in the day, and the strength of the Union forces,” Kleinsmith argues that “the Confederates had little to no chance of achieving this feat.”
In the next two articles, Terence Crooks and Robert Wynstra shed light on lesser known events. Terence Crooks examines an incident that occurred in Taneytown shortly after the battle when one Union officer summarily shot another whose only “crime” was attempting to answer the call of nature. In the process of his investigation, Crooks also reviews one of the oft-used Gettysburg sources penned by the assailant as well as giving biographical information on both of the protagonists in the story. Robert Wynstra follows Brig. Gen. George “Maryland” Steuart’s brigade as it moves north in June 1863, using a variety of primary sources to describe the march; the brigade’s diversion to McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania; and the events along the march from the perspectives of both military and civilian witnesses.
Our last article returns to the theme of revisiting celebrated incidents when Sonny Fulks reviews the case of Gettysburg civilian hero John Burns. Is the story fact or fiction? Fulks’s research and observations seek to penetrate the mythology to determine exactly what did and did not happen.
In this issue we also add to the magazine’s content some brief book notes. These are not intended as in-depth academic reviews; rather, they are provided to inform readers of new publications of relevance to those interested in Gettysburg. We hope that you find this feature useful.
As always, we welcome the comments of our readers and encourage them to submit their own work. Only through the efforts of many will Gettysburg Magazine continue to add to our knowledge and understanding of one of America’s watershed events. [End Page 1]
