In September of 1862, Antietam Creek was the site of a major confrontation between the Army of Northern Virginia under the command of Robert E. Lee and the forces of the Union's Army of the Potomac under generals reporting to George B. McClellan.
The creek was near the city of Sharpsburg, Maryland. It was one of the bloodiest battles in US history. The end result was a retreat of the Confederate forces as the Union army won the day. Lee was able to recross his army back over the Potomac River into Virginia. McClellan was criticized for his lack of aggressive pursuit.
Antietam Creek, near Sharpsburg, Maryland.
Because Antietam Creek is located near Sharpsburg
The Union army suffered over 2,100 combat deaths at Antietam.
The Union Army of the Potomac commanded by Major General George B. McClellan won the battle along Antietam Creek.
As General Lee and his engineers surveyed the area around the town of Sharpsburg and the Antietam Creek, the plateau to the west of the creek was perfect for his defensive purposes. The plateau was high enough to allow his defenders to see and fire on attacking Union troops. The terrain was also broken by thick woodlots, small rises, and sunken roads that offered his troops shelter and concealment.
Antietam Creek near Sharpsburg, Maryland.
Antietam Creek, near Sharpsburg, Maryland.
Sharpsburg.
The battle of Antietam was not fought within the bounds of a city but along the Antietam Creek. It is near the town of Sharpsburg.
They call it Sharpsburg, after the nearest town. The North call it Antietam after Antietam Creek, actual scene of the fighting.
Because Antietam Creek is located near Sharpsburg
Antietam Creek
The address of the Little Antietam Creek Inc is: 119 West Main Street, Waynesboro, PA 17268-1534
The Union army suffered over 2,100 combat deaths at Antietam.
Antietam Creek near Sharpsburg, Maryland.
Antietam Creek near Sharpsburg, Maryland.
Antietam is a creek near Sharpsburg, MD. The Confederate name for the battle is Sharpsburg.