Harris, Brandon A Forest of Granite

Union Monuments at Gettysburg 1863-1913

Gettysburg has been extensively analysed in terms of its tactics and historical significance, but this book focuses on the often overlooked efforts of veterans who not only wanted to erect lasting memorials at the sites of their battles, but also wanted to convey the deeper meaning of their sacrifices. This study examines the development of memorials to Union veterans in Gettysburg from 1863 to 1913 and reveals the efforts of Union soldiers to immortalise their experiences on the battlefield that was so important to the Army of the Potomac. Drawing on dedication speeches, correspondence, and historical records, the book shows how Union veterans raised funds and mobilised political support for the construction of these monuments, even as the nation moved toward reconciliation and reconstruction. Early monuments emphasised punishment of the South and preservation of the Union, while later monuments reflected themes of reconciliation. These honours, set against the preserved landscape of Gettysburg, reflect the complex social, political, and economic forces of their time and continue to shape the understanding of Civil War memory. A Forest of Granite offers a new perspective on Gettysburg, showing how Union veterans' memorials shaped the interpretation of the battlefield and ensured that future generations would remember not only where they fought, but also why.