Shepherdstown
Boteler's Ford West Virginia

American Civil War
September 19-20, 1862

On September 19, a detachment of Porter's V Corps pushed across the river at Boteler's Ford, attacked the Confederate rearguard commanded by Brig. Gen. William Pendleton, and captured four guns. Early on the 20th, Porter pushed elements of two divisions across the Potomac to establish a bridgehead. Hill's division counterattacked while many of the Federals were crossing and nearly annihilated the 118th Pennsylvania (the "Corn Exchange" Regiment), inflicting 269 casualties. This rearguard action discouraged Federal pursuit. On November 7, President Lincoln relieved McClellan of command because of his failure to follow up Lee's retreating army. Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside rose to command the Union army.

Result(s): Confederate victory

Location: Jefferson County

Campaign: Maryland Campaign (September 1862)

Date(s): September 19-20, 1862

Principal Commanders: Maj. Gen. Fitz John Porter [US]; Brig. Gen. William Pendleton and Maj. Gen. A.P. Hill [CS]

Forces Engaged: Brigades

Estimated Casualties: 625 total



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