Harpers Ferry Main • Tour the Battlefield > N Schoolhouse Ridge
The Assessing the Obstacle wayside marker is west of Harpers Ferry on the North Schoolhouse Ridge Trail in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
From the marker
Assessing the Obstacle
Never had “Stonewall” Jackson faced a stronger enemy position. Arriving here on Schoolhouse Ridge on the first day of the battle, Jackson scanned Bolivar Heights (the lower ridge in front of you) and saw a dangerous enemy – 7,000 Union infantry and dozens of cannon stretched across the ridge, ready for battle. He realized a frontal assault would be deadly.
After securing Schoolhouse Ridge with his artillery and 14,000 infantry, Jackson labored to open communications with his officers on Maryland and Loudoun heights. Meanwhile, he devised a plan of deception and surprise.
Location of the Assessing the Obstacle wayside marker
The marker is west of Harpers Ferry on the North Schoolhouse Ridge Trail about 0.75 mile southwest of the trailhead on Bakerton Road. (39°19’19.9″N 77°46’42.1″W)