Winter Quarters Near Stevensburg

Monday, December 7, 1863

Early this morning the Twentieth Massachusetts redeployed on Cole's Hill near Stevensburg, establishing their winter quarters. The Army of the Potomac was situated in a wide half-circle around Culpeper Court House, facing the Rapidan River and headquartered at Brandy Station. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 324-25.

Army of Potomac Returns to Camp

Wednesday, December 2, 1863

Union General George Meade ordered his forces to withdraw from Mine Run on Tuesday. After crossing the Rapidan River in an all-day march, the weary Army of the Potomac reached camp before nightfall. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 323.

Battle of Mine Run

Monday, November 30, 1863

Army of the Potomac commander General George Meade planned to move against the Confederates by crossing the Rapidan River in three columns, with the Third and Sixth Corps crossing at Jacob’s Ford, the Second Corps crossing at Germanna Ford, and the the First and Fifth Corps crossing at Culpeper Mine Ford. General Meade planned to maneuver around the Confederate entrenchments and to attack General Richard Ewell before General Ambrose Powell "A.P." Hill could assist. Although Meade had planned to commence the march on November 26, General William French, commander of the Third Corps, delayed in assembling his forces, and Meade subsequently began the march on November 27.

The Union plan was further hindered when General French took the wrong route and engaged in battle with the Confederates, delaying the concentration of the Army of the Potomac until the morning of Saturday, November 28. During this time, General Robert E. Lee was following Union troop movements, and repositioned his army so that any element of surprise was eliminated. The two armies deployed in heavy rain along Mine Run, facing each other on opposite sides of the river along a ravine. On Sunday, November 29, the Union army spent the entire day studying the position of both armies to determine the optimal points of attack. Although Union General George Meade planned an attack for early Monday morning, he cancelled the attack, believing in limited success due to poor positioning and extreme weather. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 319-23.

Orders to March on Thanksgiving Day

Thursday, November 26, 1863

On Monday evening the Twentieth Massachusetts received orders to march the following morning at dawn. Tuesday morning, at the appointed time, heavy rain descended on the camp and subsequently delayed the march for two days. At 6:00 A.M. this morning, Thanksgiving Day, the Twentieth Massachusetts began a march toward the Rapidan River.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 306.

Author's Message

On this observance of Veterans Day, please take some time today to remember and honor veterans of all wars. Thank you.

Meade Launches a New Offensive

Saturday, November 7, 1863

Under pressure from President Abraham Lincoln to pursue Confederate General Robert E. Lee Army of the Potomac commander George Meade planned a new offensive movement to strike the Confederates near Brandy Station. Early this morning the Army of the Potomac began a march to cross the Rappahannock River, with the Second Corps crossing at Kelly's Ford. General Robert E. Lee, however, declined to meet Meade near Brandy Station, and withdrew to a position on the south side of the Rapidan River. General Meade decided to relocate the Army of the Potomac for winter quarters positioned between the Rappahannock and Rapidan Rivers near Stevensburg.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 304-5.

Battle of Bristoe Station

Wednesday, October 14, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts arose at 3:00 A.M in thick fog in response to reconnaissance that Confederate forces were advancing rapidly. General Governeur K. Warren, commanding the Second Corps, wasted no time in advancing to Catlett Station, as Confederate General James Ewell "J.E.B." Stuart's horse artillery fired upon their position. As the Second Corps approached Catlett Station General Warren received a communication from General Andrew Humphreys that the road to Bristoe Station, nearly six miles away, was clear, and that the Fifth Corps would support them as they advanced. General Warren advanced rapidly to Bristoe Station, protecting the Second Corps with coverage on all sides during the advance.

As the Second Corps neared Bristoe Station they observed a large band of Confederates pursuing the Fifth Corps. The Third Brigade of General Alexander Webb's Second Division, commanded by Colonel James Mallon of the Tammany Regiment, observed a looming railroad embankment ahead of them. Perceiving this high ground as a strategic advantage Colonel Mallon raced his Third Brigade, of which the Twentieth Massachusetts was a part, to the embankment.

Major Henry Abbott was concerned that the untested conscript recruits would break during their first encounter under fire. At 3:00 P.M. the Confederates neared the position held by the Twentieth Massachusetts, who received the order to load and fire at will. The Twentieth Massachusetts poured a blistering fire into the Confederates, who rapidly retreated. Major Abbott later reported that the new conscripts behaved as well as seasoned veterans.

As the Confederates retreated Colonel James Mallon arose from his position for observation and was wounded in the abdomen. Tragically, he died later in the afternoon in a field hospital. Colonel Mallon's death was a great blow to the Third Brigade. He was widely respected among his peers, and particularly by his friend Major Henry Abbott.

After nightfall the battlefield became silent. At 9:00 P.M. the Twentieth Massachusetts received orders to withdraw and began an eight-mile march to nearby Bull Run. The weary men of the Twentieth Massachusetts arrived at their destination at 4:00 A.M. Casualties from the battle were exceedingly light, with the Twentieth Massachusetts reporting one man killed and six men wounded. ¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 294-302.

Second Corps Advances to Auburn

Tuesday, October 13, 1863

In response to Confederate troop movements the Second Corps remained only one hour in Fayettesville before Union General George Meade ordered another march to his exhausted troops. The Twentieth Massachusetts marched all day as the Second Corps advanced with cavalry to Auburn, arriving at 9:00 P.M.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 294.

Night March to Fayettesville

Monday, October 12, 1863

In response to Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance across the Rappahannock River Union General George Meade ordered the Second Corps, of which the Twentieth Massachusetts was a part, across the Rappahannock River again in a grueling night march to Fayettesville. The men were exhausted and hungry, as their rations had been depleted.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 293.

Dangerous Retreat from Culpeper

Sunday, October 11, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment had been deployed near Culpeper since October 5, and at 3:00 this morning had received orders from General Meade to fall back to the Rappahannock River. The retreat proved to be a dangerous one, as the men stumbled in the darkness, falling into ditches soaked with mud and water from recent rains. In order to find their way they lit torches and bonfires which erupted into spontaneous flames in the woods. They eventually found their way back to rejoin the Second Corps near Bealton Station, enduring a treacherous forced march covering eighteen miles in thirteen hours.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 292.

Front Lines along the Rappahannock River

Saturday, October 10, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment remained encamped along the Rappahannock River since the end of July, and during this time events had been quiet, but not so in Tennessee. On September 19 and 20 Union General William Rosecrans and Confederate General Braxton Bragg clashed at Chickamauga, Tennessee, resulting in a decisive Confederate victory. As a result the Twentieth Massachusetts was deployed south of the Rappahannock along the Rapidan River from September 18. Today Union General Meade ordered the Twentieth Massachusetts to fall back to the Rappahannock River.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 291-92.

Camp on the Rappahannock River

Thursday, July 31, 1863

Continuing their southward march the Twentieth Massachusetts departed from Germantown on Tuesday and arrived at the Rappahannock River this afternoon, making camp along the north bank of the river in close proximity to the position held during the Fredericksburg Campaign.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 302.

On the Move in Virginia

Saturday, July 26, 1863

After a two-day rest at Bloomfield the Twentieth Massachusetts broke camp early Tuesday morning and marched to Paris, Virginia by nightfall. The Twentieth moved rapidly each day, arriving at Linden on Wednesday, Markham Station on Thursday, and White Plains on Friday. This afternoon the Twentieth arrived at Germantown for a three-day rest.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 302.

Crossing the Potomac into Virginia

Monday, July 20, 1863

The Army of the Potomac continued their pursuit of General Robert E. Lee and the Army of Virginia. The Twentieth Massachusetts, on the move with the Army of the Potomac, arrived at Sandy Hook last Wednesday and made camp for two days. On Saturday the Twentieth crossed the Potomac River near Harper's Ferry and moved through Hillsborough, Virginia. After traveling through Woodgrove the Twentieth made camp at Bloomfield this afternoon. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 301-2.

In Pursuit of Lee

Saturday, July 11, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts departed from Gettysburg on Sunday, July 5 in pursuit of the Army of Virginia and arrived at Two Taverns that evening. On Tuesday the Twentieth Massachusetts crossed into Maryland and arrived in Taneytown. Moving rapidly the Twentieth arrived in Frederick City on Wednesday, in Rohresrsville on Thursday, and in Tilghmanton on Friday, and formed into line with the Second Corps today near the Potomac River.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 302.

Battle of Gettysburg - Casualties

Friday, July 3, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts suffered severe casualties at Gettysburg. Among the officers killed were Colonel Paul Joseph Revere, First Lieutenant Henry Ropes, and Second Lieutenant Sumner Paine. Among the officers wounded were Lieutenant Colonel George Macy and Adjutant William H. Walker. The Twentieth Massachusetts reported one-hundred twenty-two casualties, included forty killed, eighty-one wounded, and one missing. The regiment incurred the majority of the casualties during the hand-to-hand combat at the copse of trees to seal the Union line.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 297-98. Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 273.

Oliver's Story - Battle of Gettysburg

Friday, July 3, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts suffered heavy casualties at Gettysburg, particularly during the hand-to-hand combat to seal the Union line at the Angle near the copse of trees. Private Oliver Stanton Bates was most likely wounded during this hand-to-hand fighting. His service records state that he received a head wound, but no other details concerning his wounding were listed. Apparently his wounding was severe, as he did not report again for military duty until January 1864. This six-month interlude after Gettysburg was the only time during his entire military service that he did not report for duty.¹

References:
¹Compiled service record, Oliver S. Bates, Pvt., Co. A, 20th Massachusetts Infantry; Carded Records, Volunteer Organizations, Civil War; Records of the Adjutant General's Office, 1780s-1917, Record Group 94; National Archives, Washington, D.C.

Battle of Gettysburg - Day 3

Friday, July 3, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts remained in their position at the center of the Union line, about 150 yards south of a copse of trees located near a stone wall. Union General George Meade advised Second Corps General John Gibbon to prepare for an attack on the center of the Union line directed squarely at the Second Corps. At 9:00 A.M. First Lieutenant Henry Ropes of Company K was tragically killed by an artillery shell that misfired from a Union battery. Lieutenant Ropes was greatly respected by officers and enlisted alike, and the Twentieth was deeply affected by his sudden loss.

At 1:00 P.M. a heavy artillery barrage commenced from the Confederate line clustered in the line of trees approximately one mile across the field from the Union line. All along the Union line the infantry regiments hugged the ground and hoped that they would not be torn to bits by Confederate artillery shells. The majority of the Confederate shells fell well behind the infantry lines and hit several Union artillery batteries.

At 3:00 P.M. a line of Confederate infantry emerged from the trees. The Confederate line stretched nearly a mile long and numbered nearly twenty-thousand men, comprised from the divisions of Generals George Pickett and James Johnston Pettigrew. As the Confederates advanced through the fields, long-range Union artillery posted securely along the Round Tops began to exact casualties among the Confederates. As the Confederate line approached the Emmitsburg Road, which bisected the fields, they took fire from the Union batteries along the center of the line. Although suffering numerous casualties the Confederates continued their advance.

The Twentieth Massachusetts remained on the ground as the Confederates continued to approach their position. They were ordered to hold their fire until the Confederates were one-hundred yards away. Confederate General James Kemper's brigade of George Pickett's division immediately faced the position of the Twentieth Massachusetts. As Kemper's brigade neared to within range of the Twentieth Massachusetts rifles the Twentieth arose from the ground and poured blistering rounds of rifle fire into Kemper's men. General George Stannard positioned two Vermont regiments at a ninety-degree angle and poured rifle fire along Kemper's flank. Union artillery behind the Twentieth Massachusetts sent several bursts into the Confederates, and Kemper's advance was repulsed.

As the Twentieth Massachusetts celebrated their successful repulse the remnants of two Confederate brigades of General George Pickett led by Generals Richard Garnett and Lewis Armistead breached gaps in the Union line along the stone wall near the copse of trees. Captain Henry Abbott was the senior ranking officer on the field for the Twentieth Massachusetts, as Colonel Paul Revere had been wounded on the previous day and Lieutenant Colonel George Macy had just been wounded by a minie ball in his left hand as the Confederates breached the line. Abbott, immediately sensing the new Confederate threat and fearing that his line would be flanked, led the Twentieth Massachusetts immediately to the right to the new conflict at the copse of trees. Severe hand-to-hand combat ensued for the next twenty minutes until the breach was sealed and the Confederate advance was repulsed. The Twentieth Massachusetts suffered the majority of their casualties during the fierce hand-to-hand combat. Among the casualties were Lieutenant Sumner Paine of Company A, who fell from artillery and rifle fire as he approached the breach in the Union line with his men. Among the wounded during the conflict was Private Oliver Stanton Bates of Company A. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 284-98. Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 262-72. Edwin R. Root and Jeffrey D. Stocker, Isn't This Glorious! The 15th, 19th, and 20th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiments at Gettysburg's Copse of Trees (Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Moon Trail Books, 2006), 17-44.

Battle of Gettysburg - Day 2

Thursday, July 2, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts arose early and marched to their position for the day in the center of the Union line that stretched from Cemetery Hill at the north to the Round Tops at the south. Confederate General Robert E. Lee ordered General James Longstreet to attack the left flank of the Union line for possession of the Round Tops, which were undefended as the day begun. In the afternoon Union General Daniel Sickles of the Third Corps moved his men to hold the higher ground at the Peach Orchard. This salient movement produced gaps in the Union line, and the Confederates immediately seized the opportunity to strike. Generals George Meade and Winfield Scott Hancock ordered Union regiments to plug the gaps in their line and to hold the high ground of the Round Tops. A series of fierce contests ensued during the afternoon at Devil's Den at the base of the Round Tops, at the Wheatfield, at the Round Tops, and along the Emmitsburg Road to roll up the left flank of the Union line. By nightfall the Round Tops were in solid possession of the Union. Although severely battered the Union line held strong. Both sides suffered heavy casualties for the day in some of the severest fighting of the entire war.

The Twentieth Massachusetts, with the exception of Company G, was not engaged in battle during July 2, but was subject to casualties from heavy artillery and rifle fire at their position in the Union center. Company G was engaged in picket duty along the Emmitsburg Road near the Codori Barn. Captain Henry Patten and Lieutenant Charles Cowgill were wounded during the battle, but were able to round up their men and return to the regiment. Sergeant Gustave Magnitzky was wounded and was technically a prisoner of the Confederates, but after nightfall he crawled to the Codori Barn and subsequently returned to the regiment. During the afternoon the regiment suffered heavily when their commander, Colonel Paul Revere, was mortally wounded by artillery fire. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 273-84. Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 258-62.

Battle of Gettysburg - Day 1

Wednesday, July 1, 1863

After resting one day at Uniontown the Second Corps was rushed to Taneytown, Maryland, where they heard the news of the wounding of Union General John Reynolds, commander of the First Corps, at Gettysburg. General George Meade dispatched Second Corps Commander Winfield Scott Hancock to Gettysburg and placed General John Gibbon in temporary command of the Second Corps. As the Twentieth Massachusetts approached Gettysburg they heard artillery fire and knew that a fierce battle was in progress. The Second Corps formed a close marching column and no one was allowed to fall out of rank for any reason. By nightfall the Second Corps arrived at Gettysburg, where the men learned of the events of the day. General John Reynolds had been killed just west of Gettysburg in the morning as he led the Iron Brigade of the First Corps into battle. The First and Eleventh Corps fought desperately until the afternoon, when the Union line collapsed and the Confederates rushed into Gettysburg. General Winfield Scott Hancock rushed to the newly-formed Union line on Cemetery Hill and ordered the men to hold this line at all costs. The Confederates rushed Cemetery Hill but were beaten back by the Union forces. Although the day was viewed as a Confederate victory the Union forces held the high ground around Gettysburg and were in a superior position for a renewed contest. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 268-73.

Longest Day March to Uniontown

Monday, June 29, 1863

As General George Meade assumed command he ordered all Union Corps into rapid motion. This morning the Second Corps departed Monocacy Junction and marched over thirty-two miles to Uniontown in their longest single-day march during the Civil War. Although the day was hot only fifteen men were overtaken by the heat, as two men dropped from the ranks and thirteen needed transport by ambulance.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 266-7.

Meade Assumes Command

Sunday, June 28, 1863

Continuing their rapid northward advance the Second Corps arrived at Monocacy Junction in Maryland, where they received news of a change in command of the Union Army. General George Meade, leader of the Fifth Corps, replaced General Joseph Hooker as commander of the Army of the Potomac. As this news reached the Second Corps Confederate Cavalry General James Ewell Brown (J.E.B.) Stuart continued his raid in the rear of the Union Army, capturing a large supply train and causing panic in Washington, D.C.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 264-5.

Arrival at Edwards Ferry

Friday, June 26, 1863

The Second Corps reached the Potomac River today, crossing at Edwards Ferry. This location held painful memories for the Twentieth Massachusetts, who remembered their first conflict at Ball's Bluff nearly two years earlier. During the evening the Twentieth Massachusetts performed picket duty along familiar locations on the Potomac River.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 263-4.

Second Corps Departs from Thoroughfare Gap

Thursday, June 25, 1863

The Second Corps left Thoroughfare Gap this morning after a well-needed four-day rest. Confederate Cavalry General James Ewell Brown (J.E.B.) Stuart, on one of his famous raids, attacked the rear of the Union Army as they departed from Thoroughfare Gap. As the Second Corps reached Haymarket, a short distance from Thoroughfare Gap, Stuart fired upon the Second Division, of which the Twentieth Massachusetts was a part, exacting casualties. Heavy rains halted the advance of the Second Corps as they made evening camp during a deluge.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 263.

Letters from the Front - Doctor Nathan Hayward

Monday, June 22, 1863

Doctor Nathan Hayward penned a hasty letter to his father from Thoroughfare Gap, informing him that the regiment was moving rapidly north. Doctor Hayward expressed that the rapid march in the intense heat had taken casualties among the regiment and that they had paused for rest. He expected that they were prepared to move or to defend from an attack. He closed his letter by reassuring his father that "I am very well and enjoy the change highly." ¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 427, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Arrival at Thoroughfare Gap

Sunday, June 21, 1863

On Friday the Twentieth Massachusetts departed from Sanger's Station, passing Centerville yesterday and the Manassas (Bull Run) battlefield this morning. By evening the regiment arrived at Thoroughfare Gap for evening camp and four days rest. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 263.

Rest at Sanger's Station

Wednesday, June 17, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts continued their northward progress, camping at Occoquan River on Tuesday and at Sanger's Station this evening. As the weather remained exceedingly hot, the Second Corps camped two days at Sanger's Station for rest. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 263.

Second Corps Departs from Falmouth

Monday, June 15, 1863

The Second Corps, as rear guard of the Union Army, was the last to leave Falmouth on the march north to pursue the Confederates. The Twentieth Massachusetts, along with the Second Corps, departed from Falmouth today and marched through Stafford Court House, which was in flames, en route to Acquia Creek for evening camp. The temperatures were extremely warm and the regiment suffered several cases of heat stroke and exhaustion. This was the first day of the most grueling march in the history of the regiment. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 262-3.

Lee's Rapid Advance through the Shenandoah Valley

Saturday, June 13, 1863

The recent cavalry battle at Brandy Station on June 9 induced Confederate General Robert E. Lee to proceed through the Shenandoah Valley rather than east of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Not wasting any time General Lee advanced rapidly through the Shenandoah Valley, marked by General Richard Ewell's arrival at Winchester today.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 262.

Oliver's Story - Petition to Governor Andrew

Friday, June 12, 1863

Private Oliver Stanton Bates of Company A was one of the many signatures on the petition to Massachusetts Governor John Andrew requesting the removal of Sumner Paine from command. It is unclear from available records whether or not Oliver was an object of Paine’s disciplinary actions or the dislike for Paine was so prevalent among the enlisted men of the regiment that Oliver signed in solidarity to his comrades. At the time of the petition Paine was in charge of Company G but at Gettysburg Paine was in charge of Company A, the company in which Oliver remained for the entire length of his service with the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment.¹

References:
¹Petition to Governor John Andrew from the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 12 June 1863, Massachusetts State Archives.

Petition to Governor Andrew

Friday, June 12, 1863

A majority of the enlisted men of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment drafted a petition to Massachusetts Governor John Andrew to have Second Lieutenant Sumner Paine removed from command. Eighteen-year old Paine, who had recently been commissioned from civilian life, was inexperienced as a leader and had taken extreme measures to discipline the enlisted men. The severity of the discipline resulted in dissention among the enlisted and the formation of the petition to Governor Andrew.

The body of the petition reads as follows:

Falmouth June 12, 1863

To his Excellency John A. Andrew, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Greeting[s].

The undersigned noncommissioned officers and privates of the 20th Regt. Mass. Vols. would respectfully present to your Excellency the following facts:

It has long been the boast of Massachusetts that whatever other states might do Massachusetts should ever be the home of the free, an asylum for the oppressed. And while this is her proud boast shall it be said that her soldiers who have periled their lives in defense of the Union, cemented by the blood of our fathers, have been subjected to a tyranny worse than African slavery? Many of us have left happy homes, loving wives and prattling babes – perhaps never more to see those loved ones again – and have placed ourselves between our country and her foes that we might leave to generations yet to come a heritage of freedom. Freely have we periled our lives – with the assurance that merit should receive a just reward, and he who was valorous on the battlefield should be promoted. Has that pledge been redeemed?

What are the qualifications that caused a civilian to receive the title of Lieut. and to be promoted to command over “veterans” from many a bloody field?

Was it because he was superior to us in military science that he was thus preferred? We answer, No. Was it not rather from partisan influence, or family connection, that Lieut. Paine was promoted to a command as second Lieut. In the 20th Massachusetts regiment?

But what has been his record during the few – weeks he has been connected with this regt.?

For the most trifling causes soldiers have been incarcerated in the guard house, suspended to trees, tied in the stocks, or elevated on instruments of torture, thereby crippling their energies and tending to destroy their manhood. And while we believe that such a course is detrimental to our glorious cause we would most respectfully request your Excellency to cause the said Lieut. Paine to be removed from all command in the 20th Massachusetts regiment. All of which is respectfully submitted.

The petition concludes with "the written document is approved by every member of the regt. but as the said Lieut. Paine is in command of Co. G we do not deem it advisable to have them sign it, it being signed by more than ¾ of the regt."

The rapid departure of the Second Corps from Falmouth on June 15 in pursuit of the Confederate Army precluded any timely action to remove Sumner Paine from command.

Among the signatures on the petition was Private O.S. Bates of Company A.¹

References:
¹Petition to Governor John Andrew from the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 12 June 1863, Massachusetts State Archives.

Battle of Brandy Station

Tuesday, June 9, 1863

Union Cavalry General Alfred Pleasonton encountered Confederate Cavalry led by General James Ewell Brown (J.E.B.) Stuart near Culpeper. At dawn Pleasonton launched a surprise attack on Stuart and an all-day battle ensued. This battle, known as the Battle of Brandy Station, was the largest engagement of cavalry during the Civil War. The battle terminated in the evening without the Union Cavalry determining the position of the Confederate Army.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 262.

Letters from the Front - Doctor Nathan Hayward

Monday, June 8, 1863

In a letter to his father Doctor Nathan Hayward reported the crossing of the Rappahannock by General Sedgwick. At first he was concerned that it was part of a larger action but relayed that Sedgwick's movement was mainly demonstrative. Hayward was concerned that he would need to return to the Lacy House, which had been used as a hospital for two battles at Fredericksburg. He proclaimed, "I sincerely wish that my post may not be again at the Lacy House. The house is haunted for me with the horrors of the previous battles. I would like a change of place." ¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 425-427, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Pleasonton Detached for Cavalry Reconnaissance

Sunday, June 7, 1863

Cavalry General Alfred Pleasonton was sent to Culpeper Court House with all available cavalry for a reconnaissance of the Confederate Army to determine their current position.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 262.

Sedgwick Ordered to Guard River Crossings

Friday, June 5, 1863

In response to Confederate troop movements in Virginia General John Sedgwick was ordered from Falmouth to guard the river crossings at United States and Banks Fords.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 262.

Lee and Longstreet March Northward

Wednesday, June 3, 1863

In order to blunt the negative effects on the Confederacy from the ongoing siege at Vicksburg Confederate General Robert E. Lee hoped to draw the Union Army out of Virginia and make a bold strike north of Washington D.C. Lee ordered General James Longstreet to begin a northward march out of Virginia.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 261.

Letters from the Front - Doctor Nathan Hayward

Tuesday, May 12, 1863

In a letter to his father Doctor Nathan Hayward relayed the news of the recent calamities at Chancellorsville. He mentioned that General Joseph Hooker had been knocked senseless by a pillar at the Chancellor House during the battle and was carried from the battlefield. Upon reviving from the injury General Hooker ordered a retreat of his forces, which Doctor Hayward believed was a mistake. He believed that Generals Couch and Sedgwick were making well-informed decisions that could have saved the day for the Union Army. Doctor Hayward ended his letter with an expectation that General Hooker would order another forward movement of the army in the near future.¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 422-424, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Oliver's Story - Battle of Second Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville

Tuesday, May 5, 1863

Oliver Stanton Bates survived another battle during the three day campaign of Second Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. He was not listed among the wounded on casualty lists or on his service record, and once again was very fortunate to escape injury.¹

References:
¹Compiled service record, Oliver S. Bates, Pvt., Co. A, 20th Massachusetts Infantry; Carded Records, Volunteer Organizations, Civil War; Records of the Adjutant General's Office, 1780s-1917, Record Group 94; National Archives, Washington, D.C.

Retreat to Falmouth

Tuesday, May 5, 1863

Before dawn Colonel Norman Hall received orders to withdraw his brigade across the Rappahannock River into Falmouth. The Twentieth Massachusetts covered the retreat and was the last regiment to cross the river. They reached their camp in Falmouth by 9:00 P.M.

The Twentieth Massachusetts reported two killed and thirteen wounded as casualties. Captain Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. was among the casualties with a severe wound to his foot from an artillery shell. He would not see service again with the Twentieth Massachusetts for several months.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 235-236, 240-41. George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 256.

Confederates Retake Marye's Heights

Monday, May 4, 1863

Sensing no imminent Confederate threat, the Federals abandoned their position at Marye’s Heights. However, Confederate forces led by General John B. Gordon and General William Barksdale took control of Marye's Heights. General John Gibbon's division was once again under fire, and the Twentieth Massachusetts was ordered to defend and protect the Union line between Hazel Run and the railroad in Fredericksburg. There would be no reinforcements from General John Sedgwick, as his forces were marching along the Orange Plank Road to Chancellorsville. During the night the Twentieth Massachusetts exchanged bullets with the Confederates but held their portion of the line.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 238-40.

Storming Marye's Heights

Sunday, May 3, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts arrived at the Lacy House at 4:00 A.M. to prepare for crossing the Rappahannock River into Fredericksburg. An attack from the south by General John Sedgwick cleared the Confederates from the river bank, and General John Gibbon’s division crossed the Rappahannock River around 6:00 A.M. The Twentieth Massachusetts attempted to scale Marye's Heights from the north, but were delayed by the need to build makeshift bridges at two stream crossings. Their delay allowed the Confederates sufficient time to fortify Marye's Heights. As the Twentieth tried to assail the heights they met with enemy rifle fire and artillery shells. A frontal assault by General John Sedgwick coordinated with a flank attack by the Twentieth Massachusetts was successful, and Marye's Heights was taken by the Union troops. General John Sedgwick was ordered to continue on the Orange Plank Road and connect with General Joseph Hooker at Chancellorsville.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 233-37.

Orders to Cross into Fredericksburg

Saturday, May 2, 1863

As battle lines were drawn around Chancellorsville the Twentieth Massachusetts received orders to cross the Rappahannock River into Fredericksburg at 10:30 P.M.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 233.

Jackson is Seriously Wounded

Saturday, May 2, 1863

After his brilliant and successful flank attack in the afternoon General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson began a reconnaissance along the Orange Plank Road to determine the position of the Union army after their retreat. His reconnaissance met with disaster after dark as he approached a Confederate picket line and shots rang out. Jackson was struck by three bullets, two in his left arm and one in his right hand. He was carried by ambulance to the nearby Ellwood Plantation, where his left arm was amputated.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 232.

Jackson's Flanking Movement and Attack

Saturday, May 2, 1863

At approximately 5:00 P.M. in the afternoon General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson emerged from the woods after a long march and struck the flank of the Union Army. The Eleventh Corps under the command of General Oliver Howard bore the brunt of the attack. The Union troops retreated in panic toward the Chancellor House.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 232.

Lee and Jackson's Evening Meeting

Friday, May 1, 1863

In the evening Generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson met along the Orange Plank Road to discuss a bold plan to divide the Confederate army once again, with Stonewall leading a force around the flank of the Union army and striking it from the rear as General Lee's main force attacks the Union army from the front. Jackson's plan was bold and risky, as it necessitated another division of the Confederate army. General Lee approved the plan and Jackson began his flanking move.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 232.

Lee Takes the Initiative

Friday, May 1, 1863

General Joseph Hooker took a defensive position around the intersection at Chancellorsville to the surprise and dismay of his senior officers. In a bold and daring action General Robert E. Lee divided his army to take an offensive position around Chancellorsville.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 232.

Regimental Matters – Promotions for George Macy and Henry Abbott

Friday, May 1, 1863

Major George Macy was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of the Twentieth Massachusetts, succeeding Frederick Dreyer, who died of his wounds on May 1. Captain Henry Abbott of Company I was promoted to Major.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 235.

Hooker's Bold Plan

Thursday, April 30, 1863

The movements of the Union army around Chancellorsville revealed General Joseph Hooker's intentions to surround and destroy the Confederate army. General Robert E. Lee, reading Hooker's intentions, removed the main body of his army from Fredericksburg.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 232.

Advancing toward Chancellorsville

Wednesday, April 29, 1863

Beginning their advance on Monday the Fifth, Eleventh, and Twelfth Corps crossed the Rappahannock River at Kelly's Ford twenty-seven miles from Fredericksburg this morning. The First and Third Divisions of the Second Corps reached the Rappahannock River at the United States Ford. The Twentieth Massachusetts, in the Second Division of the Second Corps under the command of General John Gibbon, remained in Falmouth as a diversion to the movements of the Union army. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 238. Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 231.

Sumner Paine Commissioned as Second Lieutenant

Thursday, April 23, 1863

Eighteen-year old Sumner Paine, great-grandson of Declaration of Independence signer Robert Treat Paine and cousin of Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., was commissioned as a second lieutenant from civilian life.¹

References:
¹Richard F. Miller, Harvard's Civil War: A History of the Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (Lebanon, New Hampshire: University Press of New England, 2005), 228. George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 235.

Letters from the Front - Nathan Hayward

Sunday, April 19, 1863

In a letter to his father Doctor Nathan Hayward expressed the belief that the Army of the Potomac would be on the move again within a few days and that eight days rations were kept on hand in necessity of a quick movement. He relayed that they currently held a strong position along the Rappahannock River but was unsure if they would hold that position in favor of another. He mentioned that they may advance on Richmond by way of the Pamunkey River. He ended with high praise for General McClellan, whose popularity with the Army of the Potomac was still very strong. ¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 418-421, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Union Cavalry Advances

Monday, April 13, 1863

In an attempt to cut off Confederate General Robert E. Lee from Richmond Union Cavalry General George Stoneman began a movement around the left flank of the Confederate line. Stoneman's advance was impeded by severe rainstorms, and the cavalry was unable to cross the Rappahannock River for two weeks.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 237.

Regimental Matters - Revere Assumes Command

Monday, April 13, 1863

Colonel Francis Palfrey, still suffering from severe wounds received at Antietam, resigned command of the Twentieth Massachusetts. Colonel Paul Revere, grandson of the famous midnight rider of April 18, 1775, was appointed by Massachusetts governor John Andrew as new commander. ¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 235.

Letters from the Front - Nathan Hayward

Sunday, April 5, 1863

Doctor Nathan Hayward reported sadly in a letter to his father that Captain Henry Abbott had gone home on leave due to the passing of his younger brother. He also mentioned that General Hooker had designated an insignia for each of the army corps to wear on the soldier’s hat. The insignia of the Second Corps was a trefoil; the Second Division, of which the Twentieth Massachusetts is a part, was assigned a white trefoil. It was hoped that the wearing of these insignia will identify the corps and division of every soldier immediately and avoid confusion during a conflict.
Doctor Hayward remarked that General Darius Couch commands the Second Corps, with General John Gibbon commanding the Second Division and Colonel Norman Hall securely commanding their brigade. He noted that the “sentiment of the army is very good, and that they still retain their old faith in McClellan.”¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 417-418, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Letters from the Front - Nathan Hayward

Wednesday, April 1, 1863

In a letter to his father Doctor Nathan Hayward expressed his pleasure at finding Colonel Nathan Hall in charge of the brigade when he returned from furlough. He lauded Hall as “ a great favorite, by far the best commander of the brigade that we have ever had, and socially is like one of ourselves. “ Doctor Hayward reported that the Twentieth is in fine shape, with clean uniforms and shiny rifles. The Twentieth engaged in meticulous attention to cleanliness and bathing, with excellent results. He noted that “the 20th never looked as well as they do now.”¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 416, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Regimental Matters - Resignations

Wednesday, April 1, 1863

Captain Norwood Penrose Hallowell resigned his command with the Twentieth Massachusetts to assume the position of Lieutenant Colonel of the Fifty-Fourth Massachusetts Regiment. The Fifty-Forth Massachusetts was the first African-American regiment and would take a place in history in fame and honor.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 235.

Letters from the Front - Nathan Hayward

Sunday, March 1, 1863

Doctor Nathan Hayward penned a letter to his father and expressed his concern that Colonel Norman Hall would not be returning to command of their brigade. He felt that Colonel Hall should have been promoted for his excellent service during the battle at Fredericksburg. He was concerned that the politics displayed in the appointment of generals caused many competent and experienced officers to be overlooked in favor of those of inferior qualities and abilities, and feared that this pattern of appointment would continue.¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 413-416, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Letters from the Front - Nathan Hayward

Sunday, February 15, 1863

In a brief letter to his father Doctor Nathan Hayward related that the Twentieth was engaged in hard work in their provost duty in Falmouth. He noted that every department of the army had seen a change for the better since General Hooker had assumed command and noted that the removal of the grand divisions instituted by General Burnside had a positive effect. The quality and quantity of rations for the soldiers were improving, and he mentioned that all soldiers were to receive “three rations of potatoes, two of onions, and tea every week, and fresh bread at all times.”¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 410-412, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Letters from the Front - Nathan Hayward

Sunday, February 8, 1863

In a letter to his father Doctor Nathan Hayward remarked on the mildness of the winter in Falmouth, noting that bluebirds had returned to the Falmouth area. He pondered the next campaign of the Army of the Potomac, postulating that General Hooker may repeat McClellan’s movement toward the Peninsula as in the previous year. Doctor Hayward also mentioned that General Hooker’s popularity with the Army of the Potomac was rising, partially due to the furloughs granted to officers and enlisted men alike. ¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 408-410, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Letters from the Front - Nathan Hayward

Monday, February 2, 1863

Doctor Nathan Hayward penned a letter to his father from Falmouth, explaining that the Twentieth was encamped in the town of Falmouth as provost guard of the town. He mentioned that the conditions of the roadways were in terrible state due to recent weather. He also mentioned that despite the adverse weather conditions the regiment was healthy.

Doctor Hayward related that the appointment of General Joseph Hooker as the new commander of the Army of the Potomac has been received by the soldiers with indifference. He believed that Hooker was a fighter, but not a strategist. Hayward felt that the army lost its greatest remaining general when General William Franklin resigned his command as a direct result of Hooker's appointment.¹

References:
¹Nathan Hayward, "Letters," Association of Officers of the Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment, Reports, Letters and Papers Appertaining to Twentieth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, vol. 1, p. 412-413, Twentieth Massachusetts Special Collection, Boston Public Library, Boston, Massachusetts.

Burnside Replaced with Hooker

Wednesday, January 28, 1863

By order of President Abraham Lincoln General Ambrose Burnside was removed from command of the Army of Potomac and replaced by General Joseph Hooker. General Edwin "Bull" Sumner, the commander of the Right Grand Division, resigned due to ill health. General William Franklin also resigned his commission due to the change in command.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 226.

Holmes Designated as Provost Marshal of Falmouth

Sunday, January 25, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts Regiment was assigned as provost guards of Falmouth in recognition of their splendid service during the battle of Fredericksburg. Captain Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. received the honor of the role of Provost Marshal.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 227.

Burnside's "Mud March"

Tuesday, January 20, 1863

The Twentieth Massachusetts received orders to march toward Fredericksburg, as General Ambrose Burnside planned to advance upon the city and redeem the failure of the attack on December 13. Generals Joseph Hooker and William Franklin were ordered to march north six miles and cross the Rappahannock River at Banks' Ford in a flanking move on Fredericksburg and General Edwin Sumner was to cross at Falmouth to directly assault the city. As the army began their move rain ensued for several days, and the advance of the army was impeded by heavy rain and mud. After three days the campaign, known as the "Mud March," was halted permanently. General Burnside's fate as commander of the Union Army was likewise sealed.¹

References:
¹George A. Bruce, The Twentieth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry 1861 - 1865 (Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Riverside Press, 1906), 225-26.