"Take That Bridge At All Hazards"

— Prelude to Gettysburg —

Leapfrogging westward in a delaying action against advancing Union cavalry June 21, 1863, the rear guard of Confederate Gen. J.E.B. Stuart, commanded by Gen. Wade Hampton, took up a strong position on the steep ridge just behind you. From there two Confederate horse batteries opened volleys at blue-coated soldiers assembling on the high ground to the east across Goose Creek in front of you. Two batteries of Federal cannon unlimbered on the bluffs and returned direct fire at a ferocious pace. For an hour the opposing cannon dueled across the creek. A company of New York cavalry attempted to seize the bridge but failed when met with savage converging artillery fire. Determining that horsemen alone could not carry the narrow span, Union cavalry commander Gen. Alfred Pleasonton called up Col. Strong Vincent's veteran infantry brigade. Quickly scrambling down the slopes in concentrated force, the foot soldiers poured across the creek while cavalry followed behind on the bridge. Moving rapidly up the incline behind you, Federal infantry, shoulder to shoulder, threw back the retreating Confederate forces and captured a Southern artillery piece. Once more, Goose Creek Bridge belonged to the Union.

History of Goose Creek Bridge.Built between 1801 and 1803 during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson, this elegant four-arch bridge is a Virginia Historic Landmark. It is the longest remaining stone turnpike bridge in the state and one of the oldest in the Commonwealth. The Fauquier-Loudoun Garden Club maintains the bridge with funds raised from private donations.

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