Wolf Run Shoals

During the American Civil War, Wolf Run Shoals was considered an important crossing point by both the North and South through the Battle of Gettysburg. Due to its importance, several Confederate regiments encamped and picketed on the south side of the river during the winter of 1861-62 until March 1863. In June 1863, the Union’s 2nd, 12th, and 6th Corps forded the shoals on their movement north to Gettysburg. Ironically, Union General Joseph Hooker’s orders also required the 2nd Vermont Brigade to join them. This left the ford unguarded, and approximately 48 hours later, Confederate General J.E.B. Stuart’s cavalry arrived and crossed the ford in the early-AM on June 27. Stuart then continued on his controversial ride to the battle.