The Richardson mortuary cannon is next to the tower on Richardson Avenue, at the end of the Sunken Road (Bloody Lane). See map >
Major General Israel B. Richardson was mortally wounded while bringing up artillery and organizing an attack on the Sunken Road.
Born in Vermont in 1815, Richardson graduated from West Point in 1841 and served in the Seminole War before winning two brevets and the nickname, "fighting Dick" in the Mexican War.
At the beginning of the war he was farming near Pontiac, Michigan, but quickly recruited and became colonel of the 2nd Michigan Infantry. He led a brigade at Bull Run, then advanced to division command during the Penninsula Campaign, and was promoted to major general on July 4, 1862.
Although the wound was not considered mortal, infection and then pneumonia set in, and Richardson died on November 3rd.
From the monument:
Major General
Israel B. Richardson
U.S.A.
Mortally wounded
45 yards N. 32° E.
< last • Monuments to individuals • next > |
