The Devil’s to Pay: John Buford at Gettysburg; A History and Walking Guide by Eric J. Wittenberg (review)

Abstract

Gettysburg Magazine, no. 54 sources illustrates the hitandrun tactics employed by Buford’s troopers. One major recalled that the men “sent their horses to the rear and fi ghting on foot, bravely resisted and retarded the [Rebel] advance” (p. 87). Th is episode is well known to Gettysburg devotees, and Wittenberg successfully adds context to the drama of the moment. He succinctly correlates how Buford’s actions set the stage for the ensuing infantry combat taken up by the First and Eleventh Corps on the aft ernoon of July 1. Readers also learn about the lesserknown street scuffl e between Th omas Devin’s cavalry and onrushing Confederates amid the Federal retreat. Th e next morning, south of town, Devin’s command became engulfed in yet another fi refi ght as it investigated Pitzer’s Woods, from the vicinity of the Joseph Sherfy farm. In great detail, the author chronicles these widely overlooked events that occurred prior to Buford’s relocation to Westminster, Maryland, to guard supply trains. Featuring an epilogue and several helpful appendices, Wittenberg’s book also delves into leadership assessment, historical memory, and popular misconceptions about Buford. Finally, the book off ers an incisive fi eld guide to benefi t those who might plan their own battlefi eld tours. Th e work also includes a vast array of previously unpublished photographs. In conclusion, Th e Devil’s to Pay is a worthy addition to any Civil War bookshelf. Jared Frederick Pennsylvania State University Altoona Eric J. Wittenberg. Th e Devil’s to Pay: John Buford at Gettysburg; A History and Walking Guide. El Dorado Hills, ca: Savas Beatie, 2014. 272 pp. Hardback, $32.95. isbn 9781611212082.