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Make no mistake - the First Minnesota saved the Union that day. As a retired Minnesota History teacher, thank you for bringing this to everyone's attention.
@@johndunn9602 - The 20th Maine was not even in the area when on the beginning of the second day when this action took place. Against 5:1+ odds, and on open ground, the 1st Minnesota attacked the 14th Alabama and prevented them from taking the undefended Cemetery Ridge. 86% causalities in five minutes. The Maine wouldn't even have been on Little Round Top to make their stand, if it weren't for the 1st Minnesota to save that position.
@@play-doughsrepublic5121 Agreed. The 20th Maine was fighting from field fortifications and behind trees on an enemy attacking uphill. I think one can make a very good argument that this charge against massive odds THAT THE MEN WERE AWARE OF AND STILL WENT ANYWAY against a victorious enemy, saved the Union. Meade had been moving troops back and forth to support various positions. With the center lost, the Confederates could crush one wing at a time. A major loss on Northern soil could very well shake Northern voters to the core, as well as open the way to Baltimore or Philadelphia to be held for ransom. You want drama - this is it. I really think the movie Gettysburg really ignored a very dramatic moment that literally only lasted minutes and give these men the lasting fame they deserve. Plus the very few survivors had to face Picketts Charge the very next day.
@@johnmoreno9636 - Thank you John - That is very true. I was *very* disappointed in the movie 'Gettysburg' on how they *completely* ignored what Minnesota did that day. If it wasn't for the 1st Minnesota, the 20th Maine wouldn't have had a hill to defend. The 1st Minnesota charged on an open field, against 1:5 odds (250 v. 1200) - 82% casualties within five minutes. We stopped the Confederate advance as they marched towards Cemetery Ridge, but we were nearly annihilated in the process, after making a fighting withdraw. Then the Maine made their debut... The following day, during Picket's Charge, with the 1st put in the rear guard, as they were nearly 'combat ineffective', they were once again called on to charge against the 28th Virginia who were threatening the line. With more casualties, we tuned back their advance and were able to capture the 28th's battle flag. Minnesota still has that flag, and even though Virginia has asked many times for it's return, we refused - and we''re not giving that back! That's the one thing that Minnesota Republicans and Democrats can agree on! I was a MN History/Social Studies teacher for 22 years and I taught these facts to my students. There should have been a blockbuster movie about the 1st Minnesota alone. I wish I could give you 'ten Likes'. :)
As a Descendat of one of the MN Soldiers that died in this Battle I want to thank you so very much to making it more real to me. I have been there a few times and walked the walk down that hill, but hearing you talk about it brought it so much closer to me.
Thank you. As a Minnesotan, I have visited Gettysburg many times and always get teary at the Monument for the 1rst Minnesota. It's such a humble monument. History doesn't respect this regiment enough.
And that flag was captured during pickets charge I believe. What was left of the 1st Minnesota was moved to defend the union center. And amongst other units, right smack dab in the path of pickets charge.
GOP, DFL, and Independent governors have all told Virginia the flag is ours now and they're not getting it back. It's one of the only things that all Minnesotan politicians can agree on.
My great-great grandfather, Charles Wesley Smith, enlisted in the 1st Minnesota on April 18th, 1861, and was assigned to Company D. He was likely not part of this charge, which is why I'm here to write this today. Thanks to Project Past for this video, and honor to my great-great grandfather's fallen comrades.
I heard of the heroism and sacrifice of the 1st Minnesota on my first visit to Gettysburg in 1960. I was with my father and uncle and I thought before we arrived Gettysburg was a revolutionary war battlefield. I was 11 years old and knew nothing about history much less of the civil war. The day was monumental in my life enlightening a whole new world I knew nothing about.
Thanks for sharing your experience. It’s a pretty powerful thing to learn about. Especially once you learn about just how bad things were going on day 2.
I found my first and thus far only visit to Gettysburg to be quite moving; I had no relatives there I know of (maybe on the South's side!), but you don't quite 'get' the layout of the battle until you are there. You stand, for instance, at the top where the Union line was on Cemetery Ridge (the so called High Water Mark of the Confederacy), look down on the almost 1 mile of open field, and you wonder why did Lee decide that it would be a good idea to attack Cemetery Ridge, with its many artillery pieces pointed down from the Ridge? The Union had one mile long, and one mile wide kill zone, a target rich environment in which the enemy was out in the open for a long hike to the Ridge. Pickett's men had almost no chance. The Union could have defended that advantageous position with half the men they actually had (no disrespect to the Confederate troops intended. The Union's advantage was substantial--only a crazy person would attack over an open field towards a ridge with artillery pieces guarding the Ridge).
Good moring and thank you for your videos. I have learned so much. Yesterday, July 7, 2024 I went to Gettysburg for the specific reason of walking in the footsteps of the 1st Minnesota. What an amazing story....I had no idea! But when I got there it was difficult to find the actual path that you walked. It was very small and ill defined. I was wondering if I was on the wrong path. But I kept on going and discovered it was the correct path. I even followed it to the 125th NY monument. I felt bad that others did not walk this area like you suggested and wondered why. This morning I looked at your video again and saw why. The day you made this video the path was wide, cut back, and well defined. Not so now. If I had not watched your video I never would have attempted this journey. Maybe that is why so many people don't walk this path. But I was so glad I did. Thank you. It was an amazing experience.
The 1st Minnesota were all by themselves in a huge gap in the Union line. They were directly opposite three regiments of Confederates, the 9th, 11th and 14th Alabama, and could have received flanking fire (from their left) from two more regiments, the 8th and 10th Alabama. In terms of manpower, they were outnumbered 6:1. I imagine that their immediate charge with fixed bayonets must have unnerved the Confederates. In the event, the Alabama regiments withdrew fearing being cutoff by Union maneuvering, else they could have been completely annihilated, 'only' suffering 82% casualties. The bayonet charge by Chamberlain's 20th Maine at Little Round Top has rightly gained fame for their bravery, preventing the Confederacy from turning the Union's far left flank. But you are right that 1st Minnesota's sacrifice prevented an even more serious Confederate breakthrough of the Union position along Cemetery Ridge.
From Scandinavia ... these men were heroes in the truest sense. As President Coolidge later said, they deserve the rank of saviours of their nation. From the first time I heard of this story, it has struck absolute awe in me. This was the Thermopylae moment of the Civil War and, frankly, all of US history.
I visited Gettysburg for the first time last summer. Being a "born and raised" Minnesotan my wife and I made the 1st MN memorial our first stop. As we approached the memorial there was a gentleman about my age (mid to late 40s) telling the story to a woman and 5 children of ages ranging from about 10 to late teens or early twenties. Being a proud Minnesotan; I am very familiar with the story, but I also am always ready to listen to a retelling of it. As he told the story, with incredible detail, I slowly moved closer and closer. He told the story from Sickles' Salient (as you did) all the way to the remaining men of the MN 1st participating in repelling Pickett's Charge the following evening. He eventually noticed me listening and must have intuited that I was familiar with it (maybe it was the ear to ear smile on my face), but when he was finished he asked me if he had left anything out. I told him that it was among the best telling I had ever heard. When I told him I am from Minnesota he immediately put his hand out and shook my hand while thanking me and my ancestors. Honestly, I felt a little awkward since I personally had nothing to do with it, but my Minnesota pride also welled up in me and brought some tears to my eyes. He proceeded to tell me that he had taught military history at West Point for about a decade and that the story of the 1st Minnesota is a required part of the curriculum because of the example it sets of a small determined force being able to accomplish amazing feats against superior numbers and for the heroic sacrifices of those men. It's an experience I won't ever forget. Thank you for remembering and honoring those brave men with this video.
As Bruce Catton wrote, "The whole war came to a focus in this smoky hollow, with a few score westerners trading their lives for the time the army needed." Growing up in Red Wing in the 1940s, I was taught about the First Minnesota in grade school, and I still can't hear the story without emotion at 82.
Thanks, well done! This really sets the scene. It captures the immediacy and the doomed nature of the charge, as well as the fact that they moved forward as a line. My great great grandfather was James Stevens Brower of the the 1st MN. This clarifies much. In James S. Brower's obituary (@1905), there's a claim that he somehow was separated from his company and managed to capture 5 Confederate soldiers who had run out of ammunition. If that's true (and I'm dubious), it seems virtually impossible.
Lots of heroes at Gettysburg. The 16th and 20th Maine. The 8th Ohio. The Iron Brigade at McPherson's Ridge. The Pennsylvanians at Pickett's Charge. Stannard's Vermonters. Greene's New Yorkers atop Culp's Hill. And, of course, the 1st Minnesota. Long live the blue, then and now.
@@2210courtney Yes! Joining the 16th Michigan, 44th New York, 83rd Pennsylvania and, of course, the 20th Maine. The 83rd lost the second-highest number of men in the war, after the 5th New Hampshire. Heroes all.
Yup! And then you had General Custer from the 1st Michigan Calvary stopping the GREAT Jeb Stuart from helping Lee's army too! After the war there were no longer PA's this, or DE's that. So, Custer got demoted to Lt. Col. in the US Calvary.
I'm from MN and first heard of the Minnesota 1st in 6th grade when we read a book (Soldier's Heart by the legend of both MN and AK; Gary Paulson) about Charlie Goddard who signed up for the first at the beginning of the war as a teenager. He survived the battle and the war but it left him a severely broken and scared man by the time he was in his early 20s. If I remember right it was a pretty memorable novella like most of Paulson's work.
The union reenactor with the red hair, read beard and patchwork quilt blanket is Steve Bush RIP. I served with him in the 7th MD Vol. Inf. Co. A, as a Hospital Steward. He will be missed.
The re-enactor with the red hair and beard, with the patchwork blanket is Steve Bush RIP. I served with him, as a Hospital Steward, in the 7th MD Vol. Inf. Co. A. He will be missed. I am, in fact, the Hospital Steward with the silver canteen and haversack, tending to Steve as he lays writhing "wounded" on the ground.
I walked this as well in 94? 95? My sister gave me "The Last Full Measure " by Richard Moe back then. One of the best gifts I received regarding our Civil War. Our history must be protected. I enjoyed this vid thank you Cheers 🇺🇸
When I was a Boy Scout in the 60s we used to play a game called "Capture the Flag" during our campouts at different parks. The charge of the First Minnesota Volunteers was the inspiration of that game.
I admit I was one of those visitors that just drove on by . Thank you for the more in depth discussion and walk of the battlefield. Crazy to think how a huge sacrifice in 5 minutes had such a lasting impact . Great video. Looking forward to the next ones 🇺🇸
I'm a Minnesotan, born and raised. I may be biased, but I consider the memorial depicting the soldier making a fixed bayonet, charge the finest on the field....yep, I truly am biased.
Thank you so much for bringing this sacrifice into focus. I read the book “The Last Full Measure” which chronicles the Minnesota 1st from its formation, to the battle of Gettysburg but your content really helped put things more into perspective. I now will make sure to visit the monument and walk their charge.
My son’s school in Iowa last year went to Gettysburg. I told him to ask about the 1st Minnesota. I am a born Minnesotan and proud of the courage, heroism and sacrifice.
@@ProjectPast1565 yes. I agree. My son said it really wasn’t mentioned in his bus tour. Side note: I believe it was the July 3, 1863. Minnesota captures Virginia 28th colors. Minnesota still has it at MN Historical Society to this day.
This is the second time that I watched your great video! As I watched it again, I saw Steve Bush again, this time as a "wounded" soldier. I am the Hospital Steward, with the round silver canteen, tending to him as he writhes "wounded" on ground.
I thought your narration was spot on perfect! You didn't beleaguer the point, you didn't linger, you didn't add anything unnecessary- you knew what you wanted to say and you got right to it and said it clearly. Bless you keep up the great work.
Appreciate the kind words and for watching. Lots of things I need to learn and get better at. Im not afraid to admit that. Glad to hear you enjoyed this one
The descendants of these very brave men made up a lot of brave soldiers in every war since. Especially a lot of the 101st airborne division. Minnesotan’s take the call on the very first ring 💪🏻
❤After reading a book on the charge of the 1st Minnesota I was fascinated by their history. On my next visit to Gettysburg I made it a poi t to visit their monument. I then walked the field of their charge just as you did in this post. The area near the tree line was quite swampy when I was there but I continued all the way into the line of trees all the to Plum Run. I found a place to sit in the shade and sat quietly for awhile tryi g to imagine what it must have been like on July 2, 1863. I don't n3ed to explain how futile that attempt was. I was especially moved by the story of the 2 brothers in the 1st Minn. One died in the charge and was found and buried early the next day or so. I can't recall their names just now. 1:22 way
It’s such a powerful place. After filming I spent sometime down there as well trying to get a glimpse as to what those men were thinking. Bravery at its finest. Thanks for watching.
On the third day during Picketts charge a private Sherman of the first Minnesota captured the flag of the 28 Virginia Infantry. Virginia has unsuccessfully asked for it back several times. I saw it displayed in the Minnesota Capitol building many years ago.
I was there when I was 12. Then again five years ago. I remember this monument. Because of this video when I visit the monuments again (retiring soon) I will walk where they walked. You opened my eyes to that. I cannot imagine what it was like for them. Much respect for them.
I have had my family on a terrain walk at Gettysburg. We stood where my ancestors stood in blue and some died at the stone wall. We walked the route of Pickett's Charge where my wife's ancestors wore gray. It is hallowed ground.
Thank you for doing this video. I'm in the MN Guard and after finishing up BOLC at Fort Lee I made sure to make a stop at Gettysburg on my way back home. Saw the same phenomenon of people just stopping at Memorials but I did get to see a reenactment which was very cool.
Excellent video! I was there about 8 years ago and didn't have time to walk the field like I did at Manassas Juction as I had to catch a flight. THANK YOU for remembering these brave men and their courage as they gave their lives for this beautiful country! I will return one day with my family and we will walk the field. Thank you!
I've long known about the courage and heroism of the 1st Minnesota and the impact that those brave men had on the outcome of Gettsyburg.. And I have continually lamented why this very important charge was not included in that very wonderful movie, Gettsyburg. It's like writing a history of the Battle of the Bulge and neglecting the part that the 101st Airborne played.
New to your channel, recommended by History Underground and I'm glad took his advice. Very good episode lots of great info. Unreal the amount of carnage that happened in such a short time.
I’ll always have a soft spot for the men of 20th Maine and the bayonet charge down hill at the Alabamans. Serendipitous that Chamberlain was at Appomattox when Lee surrendered.
Indeed, a brave charge and tremendous sacrifice of great consequence! Thank you for making more people aware of it. If I remember correctly, an additional 17 men of the regiment would be killed and wounded the very next day during the fighting at Pickett's Charge.
Tank you for this! I have been by that site every year for the past 12 years that we have been visiting Gettysburg and I am happy to have seen this. We did a “Sickles Tour” with a guide that we know (hint he has a podcast and does Sickles Reports) that we enjoyed learning about. Next time we can ask for the 1st Minn.
thank you for your historic review of the Minnesota Troops and charge at Gettysburg. There are so many action that took place those 3 days, that if the right men weren't present, that the Battle could have gone bad for the Union. I appreciate your input. Some day I hope to make it there some day.
Good on you - uncommon valor should be recognized by more than just a monument. Those of who have been in the fight understand the determination and grit required to step off the line to an almost certain fate. I took a similar walk in Chamberlain's footsteps just left of Little Roundtop when mounting his bayonet charge against the Alabamians. God bless their courageous memories.
My Great-Great Grandfather; Edward H. Bassett fought a Gettysburg. He was a Private in the 1st Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, G Coy. He survived the Battle and was later wounded at the Battle or Bristow Station. Lawrence Tierney Warrant Officer (Ret) Canadian Armed Forces 38 Years Service
I would say that in my opinion the most bravest of the Union regiments at Gettysburg are in order from 1 to 5 1. 1st Minnesota 2. 20th Maine 3. 16th Maine 4 140th New York And lastly 5. The Irish Brigade.
Appreciate all your hard work and research you do for us!! I thoroughly enjoy your channel and wanted you to know what a Great job your doing.. Any chance you start selling that bad ass hat you have on? Thanks again.
I really appreciate the kind words! Make this all worth it. I’m also glad to hear you enjoy the channel. I don’t have them for sale yet. This is just a sample. Trying to figure out a cost effective way to sell them for a low price.
If you’d like to support the channel, help me preserve history and get behind the scenes content then click the link below to become an exclusive supporter. Your generosity and support will help me provide better content and help preserve our nations battlefields.
www.patreon.com/ProjectPast
I've taken that walk. It is hard to imagine the bravery of those men. The AoP out fought the Confederates that day and deservedly won.
He's explaining what the 1st Minnesota did. That's what he is doing
You do know the authorities will no longer allow ReEnactors to perform for the Gettysburg Reunion?
They just had reenactors there for the 160th anniversary of the battle
Why hasn't there been a movie about the 1st Minnesota?
As a 5th generation Minnesotan, Thank You for giving credit to these courageous men.
Thanks for watching. They deserve far more than this video could ever do.
Make no mistake - the First Minnesota saved the Union that day.
As a retired Minnesota History teacher, thank you for bringing this to everyone's attention.
Thanks for watching
lol, you seem to forget the 20th Maine saved you first, allowing you to make that charge.
@@johndunn9602 - The 20th Maine was not even in the area when on the beginning of the second day when this action took place.
Against 5:1+ odds, and on open ground, the 1st Minnesota attacked the 14th Alabama and prevented them from taking the undefended Cemetery Ridge. 86% causalities in five minutes.
The Maine wouldn't even have been on Little Round Top to make their stand, if it weren't for the 1st Minnesota to save that position.
@@play-doughsrepublic5121 Agreed. The 20th Maine was fighting from field fortifications and behind trees on an enemy attacking uphill. I think one can make a very good argument that this charge against massive odds THAT THE MEN WERE AWARE OF AND STILL WENT ANYWAY against a victorious enemy, saved the Union. Meade had been moving troops back and forth to support various positions. With the center lost, the Confederates could crush one wing at a time. A major loss on Northern soil could very well shake Northern voters to the core, as well as open the way to Baltimore or Philadelphia to be held for ransom. You want drama - this is it. I really think the movie Gettysburg really ignored a very dramatic moment that literally only lasted minutes and give these men the lasting fame they deserve. Plus the very few survivors had to face Picketts Charge the very next day.
@@johnmoreno9636 - Thank you John - That is very true.
I was *very* disappointed in the movie 'Gettysburg' on how they *completely* ignored what Minnesota did that day. If it wasn't for the 1st Minnesota, the 20th Maine wouldn't have had a hill to defend.
The 1st Minnesota charged on an open field, against 1:5 odds (250 v. 1200) - 82% casualties within five minutes. We stopped the Confederate advance as they marched towards Cemetery Ridge, but we were nearly annihilated in the process, after making a fighting withdraw.
Then the Maine made their debut...
The following day, during Picket's Charge, with the 1st put in the rear guard, as they were nearly 'combat ineffective', they were once again called on to charge against the 28th Virginia who were threatening the line. With more casualties, we tuned back their advance and were able to capture the 28th's battle flag.
Minnesota still has that flag, and even though Virginia has asked many times for it's return, we refused - and we''re not giving that back! That's the one thing that Minnesota Republicans and Democrats can agree on!
I was a MN History/Social Studies teacher for 22 years and I taught these facts to my students.
There should have been a blockbuster movie about the 1st Minnesota alone.
I wish I could give you 'ten Likes'. :)
As a Descendat of one of the MN Soldiers that died in this Battle I want to thank you so very much to making it more real to me. I have been there a few times and walked the walk down that hill, but hearing you talk about it brought it so much closer to me.
Thanks for sharing your story and for watching!
Thank you. As a Minnesotan, I have visited Gettysburg many times and always get teary at the Monument for the 1rst Minnesota. It's such a humble monument. History doesn't respect this regiment enough.
Thanks for watching. It’s a very moving place.
Fun fact the flag of the 28th Virginia that was captured by the 1st Minnesota still resides in the Minnesota historical societies collection
I’ve heard that a few times. Pretty interesting.
When asked to return the flag, then governor Jesse Ventura, told them 'We took it, that makes it our heritage".
And that flag was captured during pickets charge I believe. What was left of the 1st Minnesota was moved to defend the union center. And amongst other units, right smack dab in the path of pickets charge.
Virginia still wants it back. Minnesota replies, in a polite way, pound sand.
GOP, DFL, and Independent governors have all told Virginia the flag is ours now and they're not getting it back. It's one of the only things that all Minnesotan politicians can agree on.
Awe-inspiring heroism of the courageous First Minnesota. Rest in peace brave warriors.
They were ordered into a suicide charge and went in without a second thought . Just hearing their story again makes me stand up straighter
My great-great grandfather, Charles Wesley Smith, enlisted in the 1st Minnesota on April 18th, 1861, and was assigned to Company D. He was likely not part of this charge, which is why I'm here to write this today. Thanks to Project Past for this video, and honor to my great-great grandfather's fallen comrades.
I appreciate you sharing your family’s story and for watching!
Thank you Prazan for your g-g-grandfather's service.
Thanks!
Holy smokes. That’s very generous of you. My email is projectpast1565@gmail.com
Can you reach out to me I’d like to thank you with some apparel
I heard of the heroism and sacrifice of the 1st Minnesota on my first visit to Gettysburg in 1960. I was with my father and uncle and I thought before we arrived Gettysburg was a revolutionary war battlefield. I was 11 years old and knew nothing about history much less of the civil war. The day was monumental in my life enlightening a whole new world I knew nothing about.
Thanks for sharing your experience. It’s a pretty powerful thing to learn about. Especially once you learn about just how bad things were going on day 2.
I found my first and thus far only visit to Gettysburg to be quite moving; I had no relatives there I know of (maybe on the South's side!), but you don't quite 'get' the layout of the battle until you are there. You stand, for instance, at the top where the Union line was on Cemetery Ridge (the so called High Water Mark of the Confederacy), look down on the almost 1 mile of open field, and you wonder why did Lee decide that it would be a good idea to attack Cemetery Ridge, with its many artillery pieces pointed down from the Ridge? The Union had one mile long, and one mile wide kill zone, a target rich environment in which the enemy was out in the open for a long hike to the Ridge. Pickett's men had almost no chance. The Union could have defended that advantageous position with half the men they actually had (no disrespect to the Confederate troops intended. The Union's advantage was substantial--only a crazy person would attack over an open field towards a ridge with artillery pieces guarding the Ridge).
Seeing the ground in person is always the most memorable for me. It really puts things into perspective when you physically see and walk on it.
From here in Minnesota, Thanks!
Thanks for watching
You and 261 of your comrades vs what must've felt like the world. Legendary way to go out and makes me proud to call myself Minnesotan
I can’t begin to imagine what was going through their minds. Very brave men. Thanks for watching!
Good moring and thank you for your videos. I have learned so much. Yesterday, July 7, 2024 I went to Gettysburg for the specific reason of walking in the footsteps of the 1st Minnesota. What an amazing story....I had no idea! But when I got there it was difficult to find the actual path that you walked. It was very small and ill defined. I was wondering if I was on the wrong path. But I kept on going and discovered it was the correct path. I even followed it to the 125th NY monument. I felt bad that others did not walk this area like you suggested and wondered why. This morning I looked at your video again and saw why. The day you made this video the path was wide, cut back, and well defined. Not so now. If I had not watched your video I never would have attempted this journey. Maybe that is why so many people don't walk this path. But I was so glad I did. Thank you. It was an amazing experience.
@@cathyseale3812 so happy to hear you were able to walk the trail and take in that powerful site. It truly is very humbling. Thanks for watching!
It does justice I'm a Minnesotan and thank you for bringing light to the charge.
Happy to hear that! Everyone should know what these men did.
The 1st Minnesota were all by themselves in a huge gap in the Union line. They were directly opposite three regiments of Confederates, the 9th, 11th and 14th Alabama, and could have received flanking fire (from their left) from two more regiments, the 8th and 10th Alabama. In terms of manpower, they were outnumbered 6:1. I imagine that their immediate charge with fixed bayonets must have unnerved the Confederates. In the event, the Alabama regiments withdrew fearing being cutoff by Union maneuvering, else they could have been completely annihilated, 'only' suffering 82% casualties.
The bayonet charge by Chamberlain's 20th Maine at Little Round Top has rightly gained fame for their bravery, preventing the Confederacy from turning the Union's far left flank. But you are right that 1st Minnesota's sacrifice prevented an even more serious Confederate breakthrough of the Union position along Cemetery Ridge.
Thank you for remembering the 1st Minnesota.
Thank you for watching
Thank you. Thank the men of 1st Minnesota….and Hancock the Magnificent.
From Scandinavia ... these men were heroes in the truest sense. As President Coolidge later said, they deserve the rank of saviours of their nation.
From the first time I heard of this story, it has struck absolute awe in me.
This was the Thermopylae moment of the Civil War and, frankly, all of US history.
I appreciate you watching and for sharing your thoughts.
The 1st MN really was a Civil War version of the 300 at Thermopylae.
I visited Gettysburg for the first time last summer. Being a "born and raised" Minnesotan my wife and I made the 1st MN memorial our first stop. As we approached the memorial there was a gentleman about my age (mid to late 40s) telling the story to a woman and 5 children of ages ranging from about 10 to late teens or early twenties. Being a proud Minnesotan; I am very familiar with the story, but I also am always ready to listen to a retelling of it. As he told the story, with incredible detail, I slowly moved closer and closer. He told the story from Sickles' Salient (as you did) all the way to the remaining men of the MN 1st participating in repelling Pickett's Charge the following evening. He eventually noticed me listening and must have intuited that I was familiar with it (maybe it was the ear to ear smile on my face), but when he was finished he asked me if he had left anything out. I told him that it was among the best telling I had ever heard. When I told him I am from Minnesota he immediately put his hand out and shook my hand while thanking me and my ancestors. Honestly, I felt a little awkward since I personally had nothing to do with it, but my Minnesota pride also welled up in me and brought some tears to my eyes. He proceeded to tell me that he had taught military history at West Point for about a decade and that the story of the 1st Minnesota is a required part of the curriculum because of the example it sets of a small determined force being able to accomplish amazing feats against superior numbers and for the heroic sacrifices of those men. It's an experience I won't ever forget.
Thank you for remembering and honoring those brave men with this video.
I appreciate you watching and for sharing that powerful experience. It’s a very moving part of the battlefield
As Bruce Catton wrote, "The whole war came to a focus in this smoky hollow, with a few score westerners trading their lives for the time the army needed." Growing up in Red Wing in the 1940s, I was taught about the First Minnesota in grade school, and I still can't hear the story without emotion at 82.
1st Minnesota Infantry were the very first troops offered up to Lincoln from the Union in the effort for the Civil War.
Indeed. Loved learning about their story.
Wow, you do an incredible job with your videos. You made us Minnesotans proud!
I appreciate that and thanks for watching!
Great job on telling us this powerful story. I wish more people cared about our history
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
They would care more if they got rid of the woke
Control of THE NEA!!
PRONOUNS...HUMBUG
Thanks, well done! This really sets the scene. It captures the immediacy and the doomed nature of the charge, as well as the fact that they moved forward as a line. My great great grandfather was James Stevens Brower of the the 1st MN. This clarifies much. In James S. Brower's obituary (@1905), there's a claim that he somehow was separated from his company and managed to capture 5 Confederate soldiers who had run out of ammunition. If that's true (and I'm dubious), it seems virtually impossible.
I appreciate the kind words and I’m grateful for you watching. Thanks for sharing your family’s story.
Lots of heroes at Gettysburg. The 16th and 20th Maine. The 8th Ohio. The Iron Brigade at McPherson's Ridge. The Pennsylvanians at Pickett's Charge. Stannard's Vermonters. Greene's New Yorkers atop Culp's Hill. And, of course, the 1st Minnesota. Long live the blue, then and now.
It’s been such a great experience learning about some of these stories. It’s hard to imagine what these men truly went through.
140th NY on little round top
@@2210courtney Yes! Joining the 16th Michigan, 44th New York, 83rd Pennsylvania and, of course, the 20th Maine. The 83rd lost the second-highest number of men in the war, after the 5th New Hampshire. Heroes all.
Yup! And then you had General Custer from the 1st Michigan Calvary stopping the GREAT Jeb Stuart from helping Lee's army too! After the war there were no longer PA's this, or DE's that. So, Custer got demoted to Lt. Col. in the US Calvary.
Notice you've not considered any Confederates as "heroes". Bravery was plentiful, on both sides.
Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
1st Minnesota ... a fearless sacrifice made by them!
I like to think Lincoln's line "the last full measure of devotion" was a direct reference to these guys....
I'm from MN and first heard of the Minnesota 1st in 6th grade when we read a book (Soldier's Heart by the legend of both MN and AK; Gary Paulson) about Charlie Goddard who signed up for the first at the beginning of the war as a teenager.
He survived the battle and the war but it left him a severely broken and scared man by the time he was in his early 20s.
If I remember right it was a pretty memorable novella like most of Paulson's work.
Can’t begin to imagine what he went through. Appreciate you watching
I’m proud to be a Minnesotan
Thank you for helping to keep this history alive.
Thanks for watching!
@@ProjectPast1565 watched and subbed, my man. Looking forward to viewing the existing catalog, and future additions. Keep up the good work!
@@mtlbstrd happy to hear that! Got lots of good stuff on the way.
The union reenactor with the red hair, read beard and patchwork quilt blanket is Steve Bush RIP. I served with him in the 7th MD Vol. Inf. Co. A, as a Hospital Steward. He will be missed.
The re-enactor with the red hair and beard, with the patchwork blanket is Steve Bush RIP. I served with him, as a Hospital Steward, in the 7th MD Vol. Inf. Co. A. He will be missed.
I am, in fact, the Hospital Steward with the silver canteen and haversack, tending to Steve as he lays writhing "wounded" on the ground.
I walked this as well in 94? 95?
My sister gave me
"The Last Full Measure " by Richard Moe back then.
One of the best gifts I received regarding our Civil War.
Our history must be protected.
I enjoyed this vid thank you
Cheers 🇺🇸
Happy to hear you did. I learn so much going and making these videos. Thanks for watching
When I was a Boy Scout in the 60s we used to play a game called "Capture the Flag" during our campouts at different parks. The charge of the First Minnesota Volunteers was the inspiration of that game.
Interesting! Thanks for watching!
The fact that they stood their ground and did not run speaks volumes to their bravery.
Absolutely. Hard to fathom.
I admit I was one of those visitors that just drove on by . Thank you for the more in depth discussion and walk of the battlefield. Crazy to think how a huge sacrifice in 5 minutes had such a lasting impact . Great video. Looking forward to the next ones 🇺🇸
We all have been. One of my favorite things about doing this is finding these unique and incredible stories. Hard to imagine that type of carnage.
I'm a Minnesotan, born and raised. I may be biased, but I consider the memorial depicting the soldier making a fixed bayonet, charge the finest on the field....yep, I truly am biased.
Thank you so much for bringing this sacrifice into focus. I read the book “The Last Full Measure” which chronicles the Minnesota 1st from its formation, to the battle of Gettysburg but your content really helped put things more into perspective. I now will make sure to visit the monument and walk their charge.
I’m so glad to hear that! Thank you so much for watching and for the feedback.
That's a great book! I have it on my shelf.
A fleeting moment of supreme courage. Many thanks, Roland UK.
Thanks for watching!
1st Minnesota Men RIP. Thank you. 🇺🇸
Thanks for watching
Well known to those of us that live close to Gettysburg. Thank you for putting a light on their heroic actions.
Thanks for watching! Love going to Gettysburg. It’s a special place
200 casualties in 5 Minutes is absolutely terrifying. May this never happen again.
Hard to imagine that kind of carnage. War is awful.
Amen.
It's not that they took 200 casualties, it's that they took 80% casualties and remained combat effective.
They didn't break.
Well, the way things are going in my country these days,....
_Battle of the Somme entered the chat_
My son’s school in Iowa last year went to Gettysburg. I told him to ask about the 1st Minnesota. I am a born Minnesotan and proud of the courage, heroism and sacrifice.
That’s awesome they took a trip there. It’s such an overlooked part of the battle. Incredible bravery.
@@ProjectPast1565 yes. I agree. My son said it really wasn’t mentioned in his bus tour. Side note: I believe it was the July 3, 1863. Minnesota captures Virginia 28th colors. Minnesota still has it at MN Historical Society to this day.
Yes, what was left of the 1st Minn helped repel Pickett’s charge.
The beauty and sadness of the ultimate sacrifice. It is truelly mind boggling.
It really is. Can’t imagine what soldiers went through during that war.
This is the second time that I watched your great video! As I watched it again, I saw Steve Bush again, this time as a "wounded" soldier. I am the Hospital Steward, with the round silver canteen, tending to him as he writhes "wounded" on ground.
Appreciate you watching and thanks for sharing the info about your friend Steve.
I thank you for this video, as a past member of the 24th Michigan Regt. of Volunteers who fought on the first day of GETTYSBURG.
Great video. The folks that throw around the phrase national divorce dishonor the courage these Americans displayed in this battle
Hard to fathom this level of courage. Thanks for tuning in!
Interesting - thanks for sharing. Hard to imagine that many men lost in such a short time. So sad.
thanks for watching and commenting. It's hard to fathom that level of carnage.
53,000 in 3 days.
@ProjectPast1565 Great video... One of the best and most comprehensive videos about the First Minnesota... Thank you. Well done.
I appreciate that very much. Thanks for taking the time to watch
Wasn't born in Minnesota, but have spent most of my life here. Thanks for doing this.
Appreciate you watching!
I thought your narration was spot on perfect! You didn't beleaguer the point, you didn't linger, you didn't add anything unnecessary- you knew what you wanted to say and you got right to it and said it clearly. Bless you keep up the great work.
Appreciate the kind words and for watching. Lots of things I need to learn and get better at. Im not afraid to admit that. Glad to hear you enjoyed this one
Grew up in ecpa and have never visited Gettysburg. Gonna take the kids to see where so many fought for our nation. Thanks for sharing.
It’s a fantastic place to learn about how far we have come as a nation.
Went there in '01 a month after 9/11, from MN. The area around Plum Run was closed at the time but still walked the field. Very powerful.
It’s a very powerful place! Glad you got to experience it
A wonderful tour guide in a small covered wagon took us to the 1st Minnesota's field of glory. It was an honor to stand with them 154 years later.
It’s a powerful place! Thanks for watching
The descendants of these very brave men made up a lot of brave soldiers in every war since. Especially a lot of the 101st airborne division. Minnesotan’s take the call on the very first ring 💪🏻
Thank you!
Thanks for watching 👍
❤After reading a book on the charge of the 1st Minnesota I was fascinated by their history. On my next visit to Gettysburg I made it a poi t to visit their monument. I then walked the field of their charge just as you did in this post. The area near the tree line was quite swampy when I was there but I continued all the way into the line of trees all the to Plum Run. I found a place to sit in the shade and sat quietly for awhile tryi g to imagine what it must have been like on July 2, 1863. I don't n3ed to explain how futile that attempt was. I was especially moved by the story of the 2 brothers in the 1st Minn. One died in the charge and was found and buried early the next day or so. I can't recall their names just now. 1:22 way
It’s such a powerful place. After filming I spent sometime down there as well trying to get a glimpse as to what those men were thinking. Bravery at its finest. Thanks for watching.
Isaac and Patrick Taylor.
Howdy?!Bravo! breathtaking edition~:))
Many thanks!!
On the third day during Picketts charge a private Sherman of the first Minnesota captured the flag of the 28 Virginia Infantry. Virginia has unsuccessfully asked for it back several times. I saw it displayed in the Minnesota Capitol building many years ago.
Excellent work! I so enjoyed this and envy you for being able to walk that hallowed ground!
I’m happy to hear you enjoyed it. Thanks for tuning in.
Thank you for sharing all these lesser know battles and units of the Battle Of Gettysburg. Great video
Thank you.
Enlightening content, restrained delivery.
Subscribed tonight.
DOUG out
Appreciate that Doug! Thanks for watching.
Very well done by you here and thank you for recognizing the great sacrifice this regiment made.
Thanks for watching and thanks for the feedback.
Brave Men indeed.
Thank you for bringing this information forward. So much is lost without the detail you present....WELL DONE!
Thanks for the kind words and for watching.
Wow those statistics really put the charge into perspective!Hopefully I will be able to walk this trail on a trip to Gettysburg. Great video!
It’s hard to imagine that type of carnage. I hope you’re able to as well!
I was there when I was 12. Then again five years ago. I remember this monument. Because of this video when I visit the monuments again (retiring soon) I will walk where they walked. You opened my eyes to that. I cannot imagine what it was like for them. Much respect for them.
I’m happy to hear that! It’s a powerful story. Thanks for watching
I have had my family on a terrain walk at Gettysburg. We stood where my ancestors stood in blue and some died at the stone wall. We walked the route of Pickett's Charge where my wife's ancestors wore gray. It is hallowed ground.
Thanks for sharing. It’s such an amazing and powerful place.
Nicely done. It's an honor to have someone take the time to give a better perspective on what happened. Well done
Thanks for the kind words and for watching.
Thank you for doing this video. I'm in the MN Guard and after finishing up BOLC at Fort Lee I made sure to make a stop at Gettysburg on my way back home. Saw the same phenomenon of people just stopping at Memorials but I did get to see a reenactment which was very cool.
Thanks for watching 🤙
Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for history that happened at a high cost of blood and Valor!
Thanks for watching!
GREAT VIDEO AGAIN JAMES... THANK YOU
Thanks Carson!
Excellent video! I was there about 8 years ago and didn't have time to walk the field like I did at Manassas Juction as I had to catch a flight. THANK YOU for remembering these brave men and their courage as they gave their lives for this beautiful country! I will return one day with my family and we will walk the field. Thank you!
Thank you for watching! I hope you get to go back sometime. It’s a powerful place. 🇺🇸
I complement you for how well you put this together
Appreciate the kind words. Thanks for watching
I've long known about the courage and heroism of the 1st Minnesota and the impact that those brave men had on the outcome of Gettsyburg.. And I have continually lamented why this very important charge was not included in that very wonderful movie, Gettsyburg. It's like writing a history of the Battle of the Bulge and neglecting the part that the 101st Airborne played.
Agreed. It’s an extremely powerful and important story. Thanks for watching
New to your channel, recommended by History Underground and I'm glad took his advice. Very good episode lots of great info. Unreal the amount of carnage that happened in such a short time.
Welcome! Glad you stopped by! A civil war battlefield must of been horrifying. Can’t imagine.
History Savior 1941 and yourself are really stepping your game up.
I love all the different content, keep up the great work!
I appreciate that man. Josh is a great dude! Thanks for watching.
So proud to be a Minnesotan
Brave men they were
I’ll always have a soft spot for the men of 20th Maine and the bayonet charge down hill at the Alabamans. Serendipitous that Chamberlain was at Appomattox when Lee surrendered.
He was a fantastic soldier and I’m grateful for his sacrifices.
New subscriber from the Pittsburgh Area. Thanks very much!!
Thanks for deciding to stick around and thanks for watching
Indeed, a brave charge and tremendous sacrifice of great consequence! Thank you for making more people aware of it. If I remember correctly, an additional 17 men of the regiment would be killed and wounded the very next day during the fighting at Pickett's Charge.
Thanks for watching! I don’t know the exact number but yes, they’d suffer more casualties on the third day.
Great video!!! Thank you!!!
Thanks for taking the time to watch!
This video is incredible. Thank you.
Thank you!
Tank you for this! I have been by that site every year for the past 12 years that we have been visiting Gettysburg and I am happy to have seen this. We did a “Sickles Tour” with a guide that we know (hint he has a podcast and does Sickles Reports) that we enjoyed learning about. Next time we can ask for the 1st Minn.
Thanks for watching! I think I know what podcast you’re referring to. It’s a good one
Another great presentation of an important part of history. Well done. I have gained much knowledge once again. Thank you!
It’s such a powerful and overlooked story. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
thank you for your historic review of the Minnesota Troops and charge at Gettysburg. There are so many action that took place those 3 days, that if the right men weren't present, that the Battle could have gone bad for the Union. I appreciate your input. Some day I hope to make it there some day.
I appreciate you watching. So many acts of heroism on that sacred ground
Very good presentation.
Appreciate that. Thanks for watching.
Thank you so much for this video.
Thanks for watching!
Well done.
Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
A friend, as knowledgeable as you, took me on an as thorough tour... we still missed a lot, but we spent all day there. Very moving.
I miss that guy.
Appreciate the kind words. Thanks for watching
Good on you - uncommon valor should be recognized by more than just a monument. Those of who have been in the fight understand the determination and grit required to step off the line to an almost certain fate. I took a similar walk in Chamberlain's footsteps just left of Little Roundtop when mounting his bayonet charge against the Alabamians. God bless their courageous memories.
The bravery of these men astounds me. Thanks for watching!
Excellent work explaining why that battlefield is hallowed ground.
Thank you! Appreciate you watching
My Great-Great Grandfather; Edward H. Bassett fought a Gettysburg. He was a Private in the 1st Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, G Coy. He survived the Battle and was later wounded at the Battle or Bristow Station.
Lawrence Tierney
Warrant Officer (Ret)
Canadian Armed Forces
38 Years Service
I appreciate you sharing your family’s story.
Excellent video! You got a new sub from me!
Happy to hear you enjoyed it! Thanks for deciding to stick around!
I would say that in my opinion the most bravest of the Union regiments at Gettysburg are in order from 1 to 5
1. 1st Minnesota
2. 20th Maine
3. 16th Maine
4 140th New York
And lastly
5. The Irish Brigade.
I’d say that’s a pretty accurate list. I’d add the 147th NY and the 6th Wisconsin.
@@ProjectPast1565 oh okay.
@@chasechristophermurraydola9314 lots of bravery by both sides this battle.
@@ProjectPast1565 you can say that again.
Also 137th NY
Thank you!
Thanks for watching
Appreciate all your hard work and research you do for us!! I thoroughly enjoy your channel and wanted you to know what a Great job your doing.. Any chance you start selling that bad ass hat you have on? Thanks again.
I really appreciate the kind words! Make this all worth it. I’m also glad to hear you enjoy the channel. I don’t have them for sale yet. This is just a sample. Trying to figure out a cost effective way to sell them for a low price.