2nd Winchester and fond memories of Gettysburg.

The Regiment did not participate in the Gettysburg Campaign, as it was placed as provost guard in the town of Winchester. General Early’s Division had captured the town on June 14th, with scouting and reconnaissance assistance from the 13th Virginia. Company H was from Winchester and knew the country and at General Early’s request they had helped him scout the Union positions. As the men of Company H was marching together with Early the Orderly Sergeant of the Company, James Haymaker, called out to the general, reminding him, that all the men of the Company lived nearby and "would do the work up clean" if he would let us go and see our girls. Early laughed and said he would see about it. Placing Company H on a hill to observe the enemy, the rest of the Regiment participated in the assault at the West Fort.

During the night the Federals left Winchester. Early forgot to relieve Company H, but he did deliver the fun he had promised as well as giving the 13th Virginia a reward for its service; assignment as the garrison of Winchester. The Regiment lost little time in making itself at home. Abundant food and new clothes were in large supply from the Federal left overs. The Regimental Headquarter was established in the court house square. The 13th Virginia would be spared the trial of the Gettysburg campaign.

 

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