Battle of Jack’s Shop
Attacked from all Sides
In September 1863, Union cavalry moved into
Madison County, scouting roads and river fords
for a possible move around Confederate Gen.
Robert E. Lee’s army camped in Orange County.
Learning of the presence of Federal troops in the town of Madison, Confederate Gen. J.E.B. Stuart moved to meet the two Union divisions led by Gens. Judson Kilpatrick and John Buford.
On September 22, while at the village
of Jack’s Shop (modern Rochelle), Stuart’s rear
guard was engaged by Buford’s force. An artillery
duel was soon underway.
While fighting
Buford, Stuart was
attacked by Kilpatrick,
who had recrossed the
Rapidan River. Stuart
now was engaged in a
two-front battle. Gradually, the Confederate
general began to concentrate on the weakest
part of Kilpatrick’s line.
Stuart was attacked from a third side
by Gen. Thomas Devin. Stuart then ordered his
artillery to fire in that direction while continuing
to hammer at Kilpatrick.
Stuart managed to cut through the
Union line and escape safely across the Rapidan
at Liberty Mills, ending the battle.
The Battle of Jack’s shop resulted in
heavy casualties for both sides. Many local homes
were converted into hospitals to care for the
wounded of both sides.
Marker is at the intersection of Shelby Road (County Route 662) and South Blue Ridge Turnpike (Virginia Route 231), on the right when traveling west on Shelby Road.
Courtesy hmdb.org
