Jenn walked into the third Gettysburg souvenir store in the past hour. She was on the hunt for a very specific shirt with a very specific historical figure on it.
We had been to the battlefield earlier in the day, walked Devil’s Den…no ghosts…this time (ask me more about that another time), we’d driven up to Big Round Top and Little Round Top, and seen the statue of General Warren. The view was as picturesque as you could ask for.
With summer in motion, the trees were green and full…much like they would have been in July of 1863.
We could almost hear the musket shots echoing from our left…the orders being barked to Joshua Chamberlain to hold that flank…
…continue this in the podcast.
Strong Vincent at the Battle of Gettysburg is etched in American history, a pivotal moment in the Civil War.
We all know the names of prominent figures like Joshua Chamberlain, but there's another hero whose story deserves to be told: Brigadier General Strong Vincent.
A Lawyer Turned Leader
Born in Waterford, Pennsylvania, Strong Vincent wasn't your typical soldier. A lawyer by trade, he answered the call to duty and joined the Union Army. His leadership skills shone through, and he rose to the rank of colonel.
The Crucial Decision at Little Round Top
At Gettysburg, Vincent arrived on the second day, a chaotic moment in the battle. He recognized the strategic importance of Little Round Top, a key defensive position. Though lacking orders, he made a critical decision. He led his brigade, including the famous 20th Maine under Joshua Chamberlain, to defend the position.
Holding the Line: A Legacy of Bravery
Vincent's quick thinking and bravery were instrumental. He rallied his troops during a critical moment, famously shouting, "Don't give’m an inch, boys! Don’t give’m an inch." He was mortally wounded in the fight, but his actions ensured the Union held Little Round Top, a turning point in the battle.
I’ll bet you’ve seen this famous painting of Little Round Top before:
📍Honoring Strong Vincent at Gettysburg
While Chamberlain's story is well-known, Vincent's heroism is often overlooked. Here's how you can honor his memory on your visit to Gettysburg:
The 83rd Pennsylvania Infantry Monument: Located on Little Round Top, this statue commemorates Vincent's brigade. Look for the figure resembling Vincent with a writing crop in hand. (it looks like he’s carrying a sword…but it was actually a riding crop)
The monument to the 83rd Pennsylvania Infantry is south of Gettysburg on the south slope of Little Round Top, about 22 yards west of Sykes Avenue and about 65 yards north of Warren Avenue.
Engraved Boulder: Near the summit, a boulder is engraved with the inscription "Colonel Strong Vincent fell here" - a powerful testament to his sacrifice. (kinda tough to find)
📍Beyond Gettysburg: Honoring Vincent in Erie
Vincent's hometown of Erie, Pennsylvania, also remembers him. You can visit:
Strong Vincent Statue: Located in front of the Erie Maritime Museum, this statue depicts Vincent in a heroic pose holding a writing crop.
Strong Vincent Middle School (formerly Strong Vincent High School): This school was named after Vincent, highlighting his legacy in his hometown.
Learning More About the Unsung Hero
Strong Vincent's story reminds us that history is filled with heroes whose contributions may be forgotten. By visiting these locations and learning more about him, we can ensure his bravery is never lost.
Videos
🎥 Video from Gettysburg and Vincent sites
🎥 Life and History of Strong Vincent
Podcasts
🎙️ Talk With History podcast about Strong Vincent
Plan your Gettysburg visit and discover the stories of lesser-known heroes like Strong Vincent. Their sacrifices shaped the course of American history!
💬 Make sure you comment on this post if you have been to Gettysburg…even more so if you already knew who Strong Vincent was!
Jack was nimble, Jack was quick, but Jack still couldn't dodge Chuck Norris' roundhouse kick.
Gettysburg gets me going