March 2024

send a larger force across the Rappahannock. Hooker believed doing so “would leave nothing behind to interpose any serious obstacle to my rapid advance on Richmond.” Hooker thought this would deal the “rebellion a mortal blow.” Lincoln advised against it. “I think Lee’s army, and not Richmond, is your sure objective,” the president wired back. Lincoln added, “If he comes toward the Upper Potomac, follow on his flank and on his inside track.... Fight him, too, when opportunity offers. If he stays where he is, fret him and fret him.”

By June 13, all VI Corps regiments that had crossed the river were back in Stafford County. Soon they were heading north, toward Pennsylvania, leaving behind their comrades

who were killed and wounded during the third crossing.

CVBT has helped save over 400 acres of Fredericksburg battlefield land.

To cover the Federal’s third river crossing at Fredericksburg, their artillery provided a “fierce fire” that allowed units to row pontoon boats across and form a bridgehead. (Library of Congress)
To cover the Federal’s third river crossing at Fredericksburg, their artillery provided a “fierce fire” that allowed units to row pontoon boats across and form a bridgehead. (Library of Congress)
Shown in this photograph is Battery D of the 2nd U.S. Artillery going into action on June 5, 1863. (Library of Congress)
Shown in this photograph is Battery D of the 2nd U.S. Artillery going into action on June 5, 1863. (Library of Congress)
Enlargement showing one of the six 12-pounder smoothbore Napoleon cannon of Battery D.
Enlargement showing one of the six 12-pounder smoothbore Napoleon cannon of Battery D.
In this sketch Alfred R. Waud depicts the “Effects of shells upon the enemy rifle pits at the crossing over the Rappahannock – June 5” [1863]. (Library of Congress)
In this sketch Alfred R. Waud depicts the “Effects of shells upon the enemy rifle pits at the crossing over the Rappahannock – June 5” [1863]. (Library of Congress)