battle of chancellorsville

“Lord, save us this time!”

/ Sarah Kay Bierle / Leave a comment

This week at work I was doing some extra research on the Stonewall Brigade. While reading through John O. Casler’s book of reminiscences, Four Years In The Stonewall Brigade, I came across an account from the Battle of Chancellorsville in May 1863. The image of the soldiers in the hidden hole and their experience echoed with parts of my life and prompted some spiritual and scriptural reflections. I’ve decided to open up and share those with you and I hope you’ll find it encouraging in this challenging time.

Let’s start with the historical scene…

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1863: “The 2nd Maine Started For Home This Morning”

/ Sarah Kay Bierle / Leave a comment

Camp near Falmouth, Va.

May 18, 1863

Dear Sister,

I received your letter from Bangor last night. I am sorry that you have been worrying about my going into battle, for I did not go as near as I wanted to, but I was where I could see some of it. We came in from picket yesterday. One of the Regts of our Brigade – the 17th N.Y. – went home this morning. We marched to the depot to see them off. Continue reading →

1863: “At Such A Price”

/ Sarah Kay Bierle / 4 Comments

General Orders, No. 61

[Headquarters] Army of Northern Virginia,

May 11, 1863.

With deep grief the commanding general announces to the army the death of Lieut. Gen. T.J. Jackson, who expired on the 10th instant, at 3:15 p.m. The daring skill, and energy of this great and good soldier, by the decree of an all-wise Providence, are now lost to us. But while we mourn his death, we feel that his spirit still lives, and will inspire the whole army with his indomitable courage and unshaken confidence in God as our hope and strength. Let his name be a watchword to his corps, who have followed him to victory on so many fields. Let officers and soldiers emulate his invincible determination to do everything in defense of our beloved country. Continue reading →