The American Civil War affected many people in many different ways. My name is William Pritchett. My brother Edward and I were caught up in the events of late 1862-1863. Our family was to be changed forever by the conflict that touched so many lives.We considered it our duty to help repel the rebel invaders who had chosen to separate themselves from the United States Of America.
Up from the Eastern Shore of Maryland
Come with your muskets. Cross the Chesapeake Bay
O mother Caroline pray for your sons
Pray that they both come back this way
Long blue lines march out of Baltimore
Heading up to Gettysburg way
Bayonets shining in the July sun
Got to find the enemy and drive him away.
O brother Bill I am so frightened
What will we find up Gettysburg way?
Will I fight or run like a coward?
What will our dear mother say?
O brother Edward pick up your rifle
We've got to meet ole Johnny today
Here on a hill called Culp in Gettysburg
We've got to drive the invader away.
O brother Bill something terrible has happened
I cannot see the lines of Gray
Deep in the battle a bullet has found me
On this hill in Gettysburg on the third day.
Please tell our mother that I stood firm
Into the heat of the battle's fray
Here on a hill in the Town of Gettysburg
You must leave and I must stay.
Bill Pritchett
William Pritchett