New York Monuments at Antietam
The monument to the 51st New York Infantry Regiment at Antietam is on the east side of Burnside’s Bridge. (Burnside’s Bridge tour map) It was dedicated in 1908. It was commanded by Colonel Robert B. Potter, a New York City lawyer.
Looking east from the east side of Burnside’s Bridge. The monument is flanked by markers to the Ninth Army Corps (far left and left), Sturgis’ Division, Ninth Army Corps (right) and Ferrero’s Brigade, Sturgis’ Division (far right)
Text from the monument:
Fifty-first
New York Infantry
Shepard Rifles
Col. Robert B. Potter
2d Brigade – Ferrero’s 2d Division – Sturgis’
9th Army Corps – Burnside’s
Army of the Potomac
Sept. 17, 1862
In compliance with orders received from General Burnside on the morning of September 17, the 51st New York and the 51st Pennsylvania were selected to carry this bridge at all hazards.
The 51st New York, with the 51st Pennsylvania on its right, formed on the ridge in the rear of this position, moved forward at double quick, and at One P.M. carried the bridge at the point of the Bayonet. The passage was obstinately disputed.
Casualties
1 officer and 18 men killed
4 officers and 64 men wounded
Total 87
Location of the monument
The monument to the 51st New York Infantry Regiment is southeast of Sharpsburg on the east side of Burnside’s Bridge (39°27’02.1″N 77°43’52.7″W).