The Gettysburg Campaign – Invasion & Retreat wayside marker is on the west side of the C&O Canal Towpath next to the Cushwa Basin of the C&O Canal National Historic Park in Williamsport, Maryland. It is next to two other markers, C&O Canal Aqueduct – Stonewall Changes Course and Williamsport – Beginning and End. (39°36’02.8″N 77°49’39.5″W; map)

From the marker

Gettysburg Campaign

Invasion & Retreat

 After stunning victories at Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, Virginia, early in May 1863, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee carried the war through Maryland, across the Mason and Dixon Line and into Pennsylvania. His infantry marched north through the Shenandoah Valley and western Maryland as his cavalry, led by Gen. J.E.B. Stuart, harassed Union supply lines to the east, Union Gen. Joseph Hooker, replaced on Jun 28 by Gen. George G. Meade, led the Army of the Potomac from the Washington defenses in pursuit. The Federals collided with Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, on July 1, starting a battle neither side had intended to fight there. Three days later, the Confederates began retreating through Maryland, retracing their steps to the Potomac River and crossing into Virginia on July 14.

To follow in their footsteps and to discover their stories, stop by and Welcome Center or local Visitor Center to pick up a Gettysburg: Invasion & Retreat Civil War Trail map-guide. Please drive carefully as you enjoy the history and beauty of Maryland Civil War Trails.

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