First & Second Maryland Cavalry, C.S.A.

Book excerpt: The First Maryland Cavalry, C.S.A. was formed in May 1862 of veterans of the Howard County, Maryland Dragoons and the First Virginia Cavalry. The Marylanders saw action at Brandy Station, Gettysburg, Winchester and Cedar Creek. The participated in Gen. Jubal Early's raid on Washington, aided in Gen. John McCausland's burning of Chambersburg, and acted as rear guard for Lee's Army of Northern Virginia on the way to Appomattox. Davis's Battalion of Maryland Cavalry was organized in 1863. The men spent the winter scouting and on outpost duty in the Shenandoah Valley, then saw action at New Market, Piedmont, Buford's Gap and Winchester. Davis was wounded and captured during the last battle, and the remnants of his unit then served with the First and Second Maryland Cavalry until the end of the way. The Second Maryland Cavalry, C.S.A., was organized by Harry W. Gilmor of Baltimore in May 1863. The unit served in the Shenandoah Valley and led Early's advance on Washington. When Gilmor was seirously wounded and later captured, his men continued to serve the Confederacy as scouts.--Back cover.