111th New York at Gettysburg

The 111th New York had been one of several regiments branded as the “Harpers Ferry cowards” for their surrender to Stonewall Jackson at Harper’s Ferry during the 1862 Antietam campaign.

Although they were paroled, they were forced to spend the winter of 1862 at Camp Douglas, Chicago, until exchanged.  More than anything, the brigade longed for a chance to redeem their honor. They fought on both the second and third day at Gettysburg, where they more than proved themselves.

Photographed on a beautiful Sunday afternoon while riding my bike through the battlefield. Enjoy!