In 1862 Union Colonel Dixon Miles thought that the ridge in front of you, Bolivar Heights, was the perfect place to defend Harpers Ferry. However, in September of '62, Colonel Miles and 14,000 Union soldiers found themselves surrounded by 24,000 Confederates led by "Stonewall" Jackson. From the Confederate position behind you on School House Ridge, one of Jackson's officers described Bolivar Heights as "a position strong by nature." Jackson agreed. He had no time for a siege and did not want to risk an attack up the steep slope of Bolivar Heights. Jackson planned a fake attack here on the southern end of Bolivar Heights. Following a full afternoon of artillery bombardment on September 14, the Confederate plan began to unfold.

"In the afternoon, General Hill was ordered to move along the left bank of the Shenandoah, turn the enemy's left, and enter Harper's Ferry....General J.R. Jones was directed to make a demonstration against the enemy's right."
"Stonewall" Jackson

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Show me all markers in:  Harpers Ferry, WV  |  Jefferson County  |  25425  |  West Virginia  |  United States of America

The First Line of Defense: The Union Skirmish Line
A Dangerous Position
We Began Firing At Will: The 111th New York Regiment
Union Skirmish Line
From Skirmish Line to Burial Ground
Battle of Harpers Ferry / Jackson Arrives
The Confederate Perspective
Fortifying Bolivar Heights
Casualties of War
Five Rounds into the Darkness

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