Member Review Gettysburg's Peach Orchard

[CavRTO]

Authors: James A Hessler and Britt C. Isenberg
Very comprehensive and informative description of the battle for the Peach Orchard at the regiment and brigade levels. General Sickles, although the instigator of the battle is mentioned only where necessary and is not the crux of the book. The authors do a good job of describing the chaos and confusion on both sides, not just at the start but throughout the battle. I had always been of the impression that the battle was entirely a one-sided affair with the confederates whupping the Yankees from start to finish. I couldn't have been more wrong. The authors used many first-hand accounts of the battle as it progressed. One interesting note I found was the authors using eyewitness accounts by two senior Union officers of Sickles evacuation from the battlefield. According to Sickles version, as he was carried away further to the rear he cheered on his troops and they in kind cheered him. According to the two senior officers, Sickles did no such thing, was in pain (obviously and going into shock) and was only concerned about being captured by the Confederates. Sickles used the tale of his cheering on the troops to help him receive the MOH. Personally, I found the book hard to put down. It is well written and as factual as their detailed research allowed.

 

[Andrew]

I found this to be an exceptional book and one of the best books about a battle or action within a battle that I have read.

 

[rpkennedy]

I found this to be an exceptional book and one of the best books about a battle or action within a battle that I have read.

Agreed. Well researched and well written.

Ryan

 

[infomanpa]

One of my favorites. I also liked the maps.

 

[Cavalier]

I really enjoyed this book. I thought it did a good job of illustrating the folly of the salient position Sickles presented to the Confederates when he occupied the peach orchard.

John