Brandy Station Battlefield

In the Civil War’s largest cavalry battle, more than 20,000 soldiers fought in and around Brandy Station on June 9, 1863. In the opening salvo of the Gettysburg Campaign, Confederate cavalry managed to stave off the Union’s advance.

Famed Major Gen. JEB Stuart was able to retain the field, despite being surprised twice. The most intense fighting occurred at Fleetwood Hill, a stone’s throw from U.S. 29. By day’s end, both sides had suffered a significant number of casualties — the North lost 866 soldiers to the South’s 575 — and Confederate dominance on horseback was beginning to wane.

As seen in these two photos, re-enactors (left) often gather to commemorate the fight, sometimes on the same ground upon which the Army of the Potomac (right) made its winter encampment in 1863-64.

Today, the Brandy Station Foundation works to preserve the battlefield and adjacent Graffiti House through community donations, volunteer efforts and state grants. In 2007, nearly 50 square feet of paint was removed from the walls of the Graffiti House, exposing
extensive markings. The BSF also cleaned eight acres of land, establishing trails and signage in the Kelly’s Ford area.

A variety of tours — whether on foot, bus or horse — are available at Brandy Station, as well as historical speakers and living history programs. » Stories by Catherine Amos