Battles & Campaigns · 1863
Battle of Funkstown
Funkstown, Maryland, USA
What happened
As Lee's army retreated from Gettysburg, Stuart's cavalry formed a three-mile line around Funkstown on the National Road. Buford's dismounted cavalry attacked in the morning but gained little ground and ran low on ammunition. Vermont infantry pressed the Confederate centre, but by evening the Union troops pulled back toward Beaver Creek.
Why it matters
Stuart's defence gave Lee time to finish the earthworks protecting his army and his route back to Virginia. It was the first infantry clash since Gettysburg.
What came next
Lee's army crossed the Potomac at Williamsport a few days later.
Did you know?
A wounded Confederate major, Henry D. McDaniel, recovered in a Funkstown home and later became governor of Georgia.
Timeline
- 8 Jul 1863Battle of Boonsboro.
- 10 Jul 1863Battle of Funkstown.
- 13 Jul 1863Lee's army begins crossing the Potomac at Williamsport.