By nightfall, the federals had a defensive line
three and a half miles long. It followed strategic landmarks of the area, later to be a part of the Gettysburg Cemetary, which resembled a large fish hook. The Union had a distinct advantage in this battle. They were defending while on their own land. |
The first day was fought fiercely at high cost, but it was nothing compared to what was to come. Confederate troops unknowingly ran into Union horsemen on the Chambersburg Pike, northwest of Gettysburg, which started this tragic and costly battle. Surprised by this, both sides sent for reinforcements.
Several thousand federals -- the Union Army -- managed to make it up Cemetary Ridge. |