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The Battle of Waynesboro
Join author and Waynesboro native Richard G. Williams Jr. as he expertly traces the harrowing narrative of a prelude to the surrender at Appomattox. In 1865, Waynesboro played host to the last gasp of the Confederate army in the Shenandoah Valley. Although the Battle of Waynesboro isn't among the most recognizable clashes, such as Gettysburg or Antietam, it still holds a special place in American history. The Union forces, led by General Philip Sheridan, included a young brigadier general named George Armstrong Custer. The battle was also the last major conflict for famed Confederate general Jubal Early, whose defeat during the fight spelled the end of his Civil War service.
192 pages, Paperback
First published May 13, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
July 27, 2015
Well-written book about the history of a Shenandoah Valley community and the decisive battle fought nearby.
I appreciated all the information about the local families - especially The Gallahers. The biographies of the commanding generals were great, and the chapter regarding "The Burning" was particularly well-written. The book does a splendid job explaining that the battle was not significant by losses, but it had great impact because it ended forever the Confederacy's organized defense of the Shenandoah Valley. The text also insightful points out the war's impact and outcome for the families of Waynesboro and how the community recovered and moved on after the war.
Personally, I enjoyed the author's inclusion of a historical theme emphasizing the people's faith and trust in God.
I appreciated all the information about the local families - especially The Gallahers. The biographies of the commanding generals were great, and the chapter regarding "The Burning" was particularly well-written. The book does a splendid job explaining that the battle was not significant by losses, but it had great impact because it ended forever the Confederacy's organized defense of the Shenandoah Valley. The text also insightful points out the war's impact and outcome for the families of Waynesboro and how the community recovered and moved on after the war.
Personally, I enjoyed the author's inclusion of a historical theme emphasizing the people's faith and trust in God.
October 4, 2014
The Battle of Waynesboro marked the end of Jubal Early's army in the Shenandoah Valley. His forces was much reduced in size from its peak as a fighting unit. His opposing Union officer--Phil Sheridan--had always had the advantage in numbers, and a record of victory in the Valley--culminating in his long ride on is horse Rienzi to turn the tide at Cedar Creek.
The book begins with a discussion of the situation in the Valley and brief sketches of the two commanders--Early and Sheridan. The southern forces numbered only 1200 to 2000 troops. Union forces were far larger. One suggestion: the forces are described, but an order of battle is a valuable resource when reading of a battle of campaign. There was none in this volume. A little thing, perhaps, but something that I much appreciate in such volumes. A related matter: the maps were not especially useful. Better maps crafted specifically for this book would have been most useful.
The battle is described in some detail for a rather minor struggle, but one does get a sense of the nature of the fight.
The book concludes by examining aftereffects (or, as the chapter is labeled, "aftermath").
This book does a credible job in detailing a battle in the Valley, the last gasp of Early's--and Lee's--forces. It could have been improved by better maps and an order of battle. But it suffices. . . .
The book begins with a discussion of the situation in the Valley and brief sketches of the two commanders--Early and Sheridan. The southern forces numbered only 1200 to 2000 troops. Union forces were far larger. One suggestion: the forces are described, but an order of battle is a valuable resource when reading of a battle of campaign. There was none in this volume. A little thing, perhaps, but something that I much appreciate in such volumes. A related matter: the maps were not especially useful. Better maps crafted specifically for this book would have been most useful.
The battle is described in some detail for a rather minor struggle, but one does get a sense of the nature of the fight.
The book concludes by examining aftereffects (or, as the chapter is labeled, "aftermath").
This book does a credible job in detailing a battle in the Valley, the last gasp of Early's--and Lee's--forces. It could have been improved by better maps and an order of battle. But it suffices. . . .
January 12, 2016
What a cool book! The battle of Waynesboro was not an "exciting" one, but it is really neat to read of a battle happening right where I live. I am sure most people in Waynesboro have no idea of the blood shed in our little town, and I am proud to say that I now do!
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews