At approximately 8:00 a.m. the head of Kilpatrick's Union Cavalry Division halted on Frederick Street. When Reverend William K. Zieber, pastor of Emmanuel Reformed Church learned about the hungry cavalrymen, he encouraged the crowd of townspeople to feed them. For nearly two hours, various regiments passed through Hanover as men, women and children continued to bring food, drinks and gifts to the grateful soldiers.
About 10:99 a.m., rear units of the 5th New York Cavalry Regiment were located in this area, while the main body assembled around Hanover's Center Square. While the soldiers were enjoying the people's hospitality, a Confederate artillery shell burst over the town. Major John Hammond of the 5th New York promptly rode to the Center Square and urged the citizens to take shelter in their basements.
Reverend Zieber heard him say to the townspeople, "In a few minutes there will be fighting on your streets." Soon, retreating ambulances and disorganized members of the 18th Pennsylvania Cavalry crowded into the Square, chased by the Confederates. In the meantime, Major Hammond led the New Yorkers to the Public Commons where they began to regroup.
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