Skewing History: Straightening out J.E.B. Stuart's Crossing of the Potomac at "Rowser's Ford"

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Authors

Johnston, James H.

Issue Date

2023-06

Relation

Vol. 66;No. 2

Language

en_US

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Abstract

Roger S. Cohen was singularly responsible for the placement and wording of the historical marker for "Rowser’s Ford" on Violette’s Lock Road just off River Road near Seneca. The sign commemorates General J.E.B. Stuart’s crossing of the Potomac River with 5,000 Rebel cavalry bound for Gettysburg on June 27, 1863 as part of his “ride around” the Union army. However, Stuart didn’t cross where the sign is. The crossing was more than two miles downriver. Moreover, he was severely criticized for this ride because he was urgently needed eighty miles away in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, where the main Confederate force was by this time.

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Publisher

Montgomery History