** Return to main Fredericksburg report page **

Fredericksburg Battle Report: Report for Thomas's Brigade

No. 312.--Report of Brig. Gen. Edward L. Thomas, C. S. Army, commanding Third (Thomas') Brigade.
HDQRS. THOMAS' BRIG., GENERAL A. P. HILL'S DIV.,

December 20, 1862.

MAJOR: On Friday, December 12, according to orders from Major-General Hill, this brigade left its camp near Mr. John Alsops' house, moved in the direction of Fredericksburg, and was directed to take position in line of battle on the military road, with orders to support General Pender, who occupied the front and left of the division. The remainder of the day and the succeeding night passed without any change in position.

About midday of December 13, orders were received from Major-Gen-eral Hill to render assistance and support to any part of the front line requiring it; soon after which an officer of General Lane's staff brought information that his brigade was hard pressed by overwhelming numbers. I immediately advanced my brigade down the road, being unable, on account of the density of the undergrowth, to advance in line. The brigade moved by the flank until near the scene of action, when the regiments were thrown into line of battle and advanced toward the enemy, who at this time had advanced into the woods. Their advance was checked there, and, after a stubborn resistance, this brigade charged them, driving them through the field and completely routing them. We pursued for some distance across the railroad, when, seeing no support either on the right or left, and my ammunition being reported to be well-nigh exhausted, I concluded to fall back to the railroad. Forming at this place the front line, I determined to hold the position, at the same time sending word to Colonel [Edmund] Pendleton, commanding brigade, that I was deficient in ammunition, and requesting him to be in supporting distance.

The brigade bivouacked that night in the edge of the woods, throwing out pickets on the railroad, and were relieved early the next morning by Colonel [E. T. H.] Warren's brigade, and was placed in reserve.

The officers and men of my command behaved with a gallantry highly commendable.(*)

I have the honor to be, major, your obedient servant,

EDWARD L. THOMAS,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Maj. R. C. MORGAN,

Assistant Adjutant-General.