Union monuments at Gettysburg > New York > Infantry
“Second Buffalo”
The monument to the 49th New York Infantry Regiment is southeast of Gettysburg on Neil Avenue, known as “Lost Lane” because of its inaccessibility. There is also a monument to the 49th New York on the Spotsylvania battlefield.
The photo looks north from Neill Avenue into the woods that were the rear of the Confederate lines around Culp’s Hill. Neill’s Brigade advanced from Baltimore Pike to this point on July 3rd to push back Confederate skirmishers who were threatening the Union line of supply and communication. The stone wall dates to the battle.
About the monument to the 49th New York Infantry
The granite monument stands 10′ 6″ high. On its front is a relief of crossed rifles set over a victory wreath. The Greek Cross symbol of the Sixth Corps is in relief above the rifles; below a circular bronze Seal of the State of New York is set into the front of the monument’s base. The monument was dedicated by the State of New York on July 2nd, 1893.
The 49th New York at the Battle of Gettysburg
The 49th New York Infantry Regiment was commanded at the Battle of Gettysburg by Colonel Daniel D. Bidwell, an attorney from Buffalo. It brought 414 men to the field, losing 2 men wounded.
Neill’s Brigade of the Sixth Corps was one of the last to reach the battlefield on July 2nd and was held in reserve on the Baltimore Pike at Rock Creek. On July 3rd the brigade deployed to the north of the Pike on the east side of Rock Creek to push back Confederate skirmishers that were threatening the army’s main supply and communications route. It advanced to the location of the monuments, taking light casualties.
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From the front of the monument:
49th N.Y. Inf’y
3d Brig 2d Div 6th Corps
From the rear:
Held this position July 3d 1863.
Mustered in Aug. 26th 1861.
Engaged in 30 battles
Mustered out June 27th 1865.
Location of the monument
The monument to the 49th New York is southeast of Gettysburg on Neil Avenue. The location is surrounded by private property, with access by a difficult path from Clapsaddle Road. (39°48’28.0″N 77°12’40.6″W)