Shoes, Myth or Fact at Gettysburg

[M E Wolf]

Dear List Members,

I was under the impression that General A. P. Hill was the one who ordered Heth to check out Gettysburg and seek the shoes/footware for his troops. Hill knew Lee did not want to force an engagement; as all of the army, e.g. Longstreet's Corps wasn't up yet. So, Heth on the desire of Hill moved into town and thought he would only encounter militia.

I was also under the impression that Heth being under Hill; Hill would be in more direct contact with General Lee as a corps commander. Much like Longstreet--there really wasn't the same level of exchange between, say Armistead, Garnett and or Pickett; not until there was time at the map for military strategy/tactics and assignments given; when all the generals would meet.

I believe Hill in disregarding Heth's report of seeing cavalry and continued Heth on into Gettysburg for supplies--and, Heth's lack of control of his troops it was clear the 'dog fight' began.

General Buford's vedettes and pickets, as well as scouts were out far enough for transmitting the Confederate forces. Longstreet's spy Harrison having seen Buford and Corps movement- caused Longstreet to warn Lee; thus the immediate turn and drawing all commanders into the point of Gettysburg due to the ideal road and railroad location--great for supplying ammo and supplies to his troops for a battle.

I believe that Hill, Heth, Lee, Longstreet, etc.; were under the assumption that JEB Stuart would be giving reports in detail "IF" there was a danger of forces interacting; however Stuart was leaving Lee blind fully; again in the dog house the second time. Lee really liked Stuart more like a son than a soldier; after all from Col. Lee and Lt. Stuart's joint work at Harper's Ferry with John Brown; then the Civil War--the favorite cadet when Lee was at West Point--it can be hard to see without tint; that Stuart took advantages of his status with Lee. Thus, I think the shock for Lee was Stuart leaving his whole army blind to the Union's movements. Otherwise, he would have found Buford--knowing how Buford has a talent to sniff out enemy.

Just some thoughts.

Respectfully submitted for consideration,
M. E. Wolf

[MasonicCav]

I support the father, son theory. Stuart was only about 30yrs old as a Maj. Gen. rather young for a corps commander at the time. Also considering others were close to 10-20 yrs his senior.

Looking for a good book about JEB read "They Followed the Plume" by Robert Trout.