Battle of New Market: VMI cadets force Sigel from the Shenandoah Valley

Background. In spring 1864, Union General Ulysses S. Grant ordered Major General Franz Sigel to secure the Shenandoah Valley and threaten Confederate General Lee's flank. Sigel's army of 10,000 launched an invasion, starting the Valley Campaigns. By May 14, Sigel's forces reached north of New Market, while Confederate General John C. Breckinridge was positioned eight miles south at Lacey Spring.

Cadet Involvement. The Virginia Military Institute (VMI) is a public senior military college in Lexington, Virginia. On May 14, 1864, the governor called upon VMI cadets to serve. After marching 80 miles overnight, 247 cadets fought at New Market. This marked the only time in U.S. history that a college's student body fought as an organized unit in pitched combat.

Battle Outcome. A makeshift Confederate army of 4,100 men defeated the larger Union Army of the Shenandoah under Sigel. The battle delayed the capture of Staunton by several weeks. Sigel staged a rapid retreat northward to Strasburg, leaving the field and the Valley to Breckinridge's army. The engagement is remembered for the prominent role played by young VMI cadets.