Just after 5 pm on May 2, 1863, as the NY 77th Infantry rested in the shade of their tents enjoying the calm of a lovely May day, the peaceful air was suddenly broken by the terrible din of battle that shook the ground. Unbeknown to the 77th, the thundering roar was Stonewall Jackson's six brigades smashing into Major General Hooker's left flank of the Army of the Potomac nearby at Chancellorsville. The next day the 77th and the Sixth Corps assaulted Marye's Heights behind Fredericksburg. Rushing up the heights, the New Yorkers covered themselves in glory, capturing two brass canons, 20 prisoners - including Lt. Col. William H. Luse of the 18th Mississippi - and the 18th's regimental flag. The regiment lost 83 men killed, wounded, and listed as missing. The 77th mourned the death of the beloved Captain Luther Wheeler struck down during the assault.

Join David Handy for stories of the NY 77th Infantry's participation in the Second Battle of Fredericksburg, including first person accounts of the 77th charging Telegraph Hill, adjoining the sunken road on Marye's Heights just below the city of Fredericksburg. Seating is limited and registration is required.