On The Eve of The 150th:Battle of First Manassas, Stonewall Jackson(First in a Series)

              In less than two weeks, the first major battle of the American Civil War will be remembered. On that hot and humid July 21 in the year of our Lord, 1861, the War really began. It was at the small town of Manassas Junction, Virginia, where the Union and Confederate armies collided for what would be the first of hundred battles during the next four years. Here is just one of many stories from that battle.

One of the most famous battle units in American history, the Stonewall Brigade – trained and first led by Thomas J. Jackson - achieved a record for marching, fighting, and sacrifice rarely equaled in the annals of war. The organization is remarkable for remaining a potent fighting force until late in the War, despite severe attrition.

 Their commander was Gen. Thomas J. Jackson. His severe training program and ascetic standards of military discipline turned these raw but enthusiastic recruits into an effective military organization. The unit was Virginia’s First Brigade until July 21, 1861, when, at the Battle of First Manassas, it and its general received the nickname “Stonewall”. Barnard E. Bee made his immortal remark between 2:30 and 3:00 P.M., when, looking for more of his brigade to rally for the final phase of the battle. He probably said, “Yonder stands Jackson like a stone wall; let’s go to his assistance… Rally behind the Virginians!”