Pitzer Run facts for kids

The stream runs from the north to the south, along the west flank of Seminary Ridge.

Pitzer Run is a small stream in Pennsylvania. It flows south through the famous Gettysburg Battlefield. This stream is located between two important hills: McPherson Ridge and Seminary Ridge.

Pitzer Run eventually joins another stream called Willoughby Run. It flows past the spot where Pitzer's School once stood. This school was an important place during the Battle of Gettysburg, serving as a headquarters for Confederate General Longstreet. The school building unfortunately burned down in 1915.

Pitzer Run: A Small Stream with a Big Story

Pitzer Run might seem like a small stream, but it played a part in one of the most important battles in American history. Its location made it a key spot during the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863.

Its Role in the Battle of Gettysburg

The stream's path between the ridges was important for soldiers moving during the battle. It was near Pitzer Run that a significant fight happened. This clash involved a special group of soldiers called Berdan's Sharpshooters.

These sharpshooters were highly skilled marksmen. They faced off against a large group of soldiers from General Longstreet's corps. Longstreet's troops were getting ready for a major attack known as Pickett's Charge.

A Brave Stand

General Daniel Sickles, a Union commander, later spoke about the bravery of Berdan's Sharpshooters. He said they bravely pushed through the woods. They directly attacked the enemy forces. These enemy forces were trying to break through the Union's left side and capture a key area called the Round Tops.

The sharpshooters' actions helped to slow down the Confederate advance. This gave the Union army valuable time to prepare their defenses. Even a small stream like Pitzer Run can be part of a big historical event.