Leesburg in Loudoun County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
15th Massachusetts Infantry
Photographed By Craig Swain, July 30, 2007
1. 15th Massachusetts Infantry Marker
The 15th Massachusetts Infantry led the Federal advance at Ball's Bluff. Rebuffed in the morning's fight, the 15th fell back to the small field that existed here in 1861. Private Rowland E. Bowen of the 15th Massachusetts described the action here: "…it was evident to me at once that we had formed our last line of battle and if we lost this position, we were utterly ruined…Now the dirt and grass began to fly on top of the ridge and the bullets flew like hailstones…Colonel Devens came along behind us and said 'Fellow soldiers, if you wish to preserve your lives…form a line and stand still.' But it was the general impression among our men that our enemies were 5 to 1 [against us], which disheartened them."
Source: From Ball's Bluff to Gettysburg and Beyond" by Gregory A. Coco, 1994, Thomas Publications.
Erected by Ball's Bluff Regional Park/Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War, US Civil. In addition, it is included in the NOVA Parks series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1861.
Location. This marker has been replaced by another marker nearby. It was located near 39° 7.976′ N, 77° 31.755′ W.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. A different marker also named 15th Massachusetts Infantry (here, next to this marker); Jenifer’s Cavalry (within shouting distance of this marker); Battlefield Historic Restoration Project (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); M1841 12 Pound Mountain Howitzer (about 500 feet away); Thomas Clinton Lovett Hatcher (about 500 feet away); Clinton Hatcher (about 500 feet away); Battle of Ball's Bluff, October 21, 1861 (about 500 feet away); The South: Confederate Leaders at Ball’s Bluff (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Leesburg.
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. This marker has been replaced with the linked marker.
Credits. This page was last revised on March 6, 2021. It was originally submitted on March 6, 2021, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia. This page has been viewed 151 times since then and 14 times this year. Photo 1. submitted on August 31, 2007, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
