John M. Brockenbrough facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Mercer Brockenbrough
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| Born | August 1, 1830 Richmond County, Virginia |
| Died | August 24, 1892 (aged 62) |
| Buried |
Hollywood Cemetery (Richmond, Virginia)
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| Allegiance |  Confederate States of America |
| Service/ |
 Confederate States Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1864 (CSA) |
| Rank |  Colonel (CSA) |
| Commands held |  40th Virginia Infantry (CSA) |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Spouse(s) | Austina Brockenbrough (cousin) Kate Cornelia Mallory |
John Mercer Brockenbrough (born August 1, 1830, died August 24, 1892) was a farmer. He became a colonel in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War.
Contents
Early Life and Education
John Mercer Brockenbrough was born on August 1, 1830. His birthplace was Richmond County, Virginia. He was related to other notable people, like his second cousin, John White Brockenbrough. John went to the Virginia Military Institute. He finished his studies there in 1850.
Military Service in the Civil War
Joining the Confederate Army
When the Civil War began, Brockenbrough was made a colonel. He led the 40th Virginia Infantry regiment. This unit was part of a larger group. It served under generals like A. P. Hill and Henry Heth.
Early Battles and Challenges
Brockenbrough's regiment fought in the Seven Days Battles. These were very tough fights. His unit lost about half of its soldiers. After General Charles W. Field was hurt, Brockenbrough took command of the brigade. He led them at the Second Battle of Bull Run and Chantilly.
During the Maryland Campaign, his troops helped capture Harpers Ferry. They then marched to help General Robert E. Lee at Sharpsburg. His brigade was on the far right side. They did not see direct fighting there.
At Fredericksburg, his brigade was told to fill a gap. Union soldiers were trying to break through the Confederate line. Brockenbrough had trouble keeping his brigade together. Two of his regiments got separated. They did not reach the main fighting. General Lee was not very impressed with his leadership.
Changes in Command
In early 1863, General Lee brought in Henry Heth. Heth took over command of Brockenbrough's brigade. Lee hoped Heth would make the unit stronger. During the Battle of Chancellorsville, Brockenbrough was back in command. This happened when General Hill was wounded. His brigade lost about 300 men during a strong attack. After this battle, General Heth praised Brockenbrough for leading the attack.
Gettysburg and Later Service
At the Battle of Gettysburg, Brockenbrough's brigade was at the back of the column. This was on July 1, 1863. So, they missed the morning attacks. In the afternoon, his men advanced with another brigade. His brigade fought less effectively. They had fewer casualties compared to other units.
On July 3, his brigade took part in Pickett's Charge. This was a very bloody attack. There is no clear record that Brockenbrough marched with his men. Colonel Robert Murphy Mayo was in temporary command. His brigade was on the far left side. They faced heavy shelling from Union cannons. When Union troops attacked their left, the Virginians retreated.
After Gettysburg, Brockenbrough tried to improve his reputation. He made a risky advance at Falling Waters. His unit suffered many losses. Soon after, General Henry Harrison Walker took command of the brigade. Brockenbrough returned to leading the 40th Virginia. He led them at Bristoe and Mine Run. On January 21, 1864, Brockenbrough left the Confederate Army. He kept his rank of colonel in the reserves until late 1864.
Life After the War
After the war ended, Brockenbrough lived in Norfolk. He also lived in Richmond. He passed away in Richmond. He is buried there in Hollywood Cemetery.
