The Shepherdstown Battlefield Preservation Association working in the core of the Battle of Shepherdstown has confirmed a first Witness Tree.

This important discovery occurred years ago and a Battlefield supporter recently came forward with key evidence to support the claim. The impressively large maple tree is named after the individual who discovered a Union bullet lodged within the trunk of the tree, the Wootton Witness Tree.

It’s now included in Battlefield tours and activities.

This is incredible and unique support for the Battle of Shepherdstown: a Witness Tree that experienced heavy Union artillery shelling and fierce fighting on September 19 and 20, 1862. This decisive Confederate victory (Ambrose P. Hill) was the final battle in the 1862 Maryland Campaign. After which, Robert E. Lee conferred with his Generals in camp from September 22-25 and decided not to re-cross the Potomac River at Williamsport. Instead they disbursed to winter quarters.

The next conflict occurred almost a month later, on October 16 when Union Calvary and troops again crossed the Potomac River at Packhorse Ford to occupy Shepherdstown. Shortly thereafter, President Lincoln cited General McClellan’s inaction after Antietam as a primary cause of his dismissal on November 8. In fact, the Union Army built Fort Duncan just downstream, to further protect Harper’s Ferry and the C&O Canal. The fort overlooks a Canal boat loading lock, the 1799 Dam 3, and a Canal boat loading station and warehouse across the river. Google maps has the location!

As always, these efforts are made possible thru generous donations from Battlefield Supporters! It’s ‘History worth learning!’

Mike Nickerson
President
Shepherdstown Battlefield Preservation Association
304-995-6975
sbpa1862@gmail.com

Learn more about Witness Trees from Smithsonian Magazine: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/these-five-witness-trees-were-present-at-key-moments-in-americas-history-180963925