Bridges and Biscuits

Why was Fredericksburg important to the Union war effort? The answer lies in logistics. The Union army, numbering more than 100,000 troops, required tons of food, clothing and other supplies to operate, Wagon trains could supply the army for short distances, but they were cumbersome and difficult to protect. Longer supply lines required either water or rail transportation. Fredericksburg, with its railroad and close proximity to the Potomac River, provided the Union Army with an ideal base for an "On to Richmond" drive.

Three bridges spanned the Rappahannock River here in 1861: the Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Potomac Railroad bridge (which stood at the same location as the modern bridge ahead of you) and two wagon bridges located farther upstream. Retreating Confederates destroyed these spans in April 1862, making it necessary for the Union army to cross the river on pontoon bridges the following December during the Battle of Fredericksburg. The middle pontoon bridge stood here at the city dock.

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. If you have a picture, please share it with us. It's simple to do. 1) Become a member. 2) Adopt this historical marker listing. 3) Upload the picture.

Show me all markers in:  Fredericksburg, VA  |  22401  |  Virginia  |  United States of America

Fredericksburg City Dock
Fredericksburg City Dock
No Outlet Historical
The Slave Ship Othello Historical
The Middle Passage Historical
George Washington's Boyhood Home at Ferry Farm
Fredericksburg's Wharves and Harbor
Irish Brigade
Rocky Lane
The Sentry Box

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.