Abigail Elizabeth Reynolds, War Correspondent, New York World
July 4, 1863
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
The citizenry of Gettysburg are rejoicing this day as Confederate forces have begun to withdraw from the town and countryside under orders from General Robert E. Lee, CSA, to retreat back into Virginia following the devastating loss of life during the third day of battle.
At approximately 3:00 pm on the 3rd of July, under the command of General George Pickett, about 12,000 Confederate troops began a massive assault on the Federal position at Seminary Ridge, hitting the Union center. The Union, under the immediate command of General Winfred S. Hancock, USA, sustained significant bombardment from Confederate canons, and then a rousing assault by General Pickett’s Brigade. The Union was able to repulse the attack. Confederate forces were decimated in the attack while Union casualties were not nearly as severe.
During the attack, General Hancock was seriously wounded and taken from the field after the fighting had concluded for care. His condition is believed to be fatal; however no word has been received as yet to the extent or outcome of his injuries. Union losses are believed to be less than two thousand men.
Confederate forces suffered nearly fifty percent casualties. Among those are several principle officers including Generals Armistead, Garnett and Kemper, Trimble and Pettigrew. Pickett’s three brigade commanders and all thirteen of his regimental commanders were casualties during the assault on the Union center.
There is speculation that these losses will undoubtedly be the end of the Army of Northern Virginia and that the Confederacy will not be able to recover after this devastating loss. Rumor has it that Mr. Lincoln will seek to bring an end to the war, pursuing a policy of reestablishing the Union through peaceful negotiations with Richmond.
General Meade has ordered a pursuit of Lee’s army into Maryland and into Virginia if necessary to end this bloody conflict. All prayers are with the Federal forces in hope that this defeat of the Confederate Army will now bring with it a swift conclusion to these hostilities and a restoration of the Union and peace for all people.
