Skirmish At Pearisburg

Do you want to learn what the upcoming Civil War Weekend is all about?  On Thursday evening, June 7, at 7 pm, the Historical Society will present an illustrated lecture and book signing by George A. McLean Jr. at the Pearisburg Town Hall, 112 Tazewell Street.  McLean will discuss his newly-published book, Skirmish at Pearisburg, the first in-depth study of the Union invasion of Giles County in 1862.

Al McLean is a native of Giles County, where his father operated a pharmacy for many years.   After graduating from Pearisburg High School, he attended Hampden-Sydney College and the University of Richmond School of Law.  He has practiced law in Roanoke since 1974.  

McLean, whose ancestors fought on both sides of the Civil War, has had a life-long interest in the subject.  Skirmish at Pearisburg is the result of many years of research, and places the action at Giles Court House (as Pearisburg was often called in the 19^th century) in the context of the greater conflict.

“The skirmish was significant for several reasons,” says McLean.  “It saved the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad, and it can be argued that the Confederate success prevented Giles County from becoming part of West Virginia. “

It was also a testing-ground for the Federal commander, Lt. Col. Rutherford B. Hayes.  A young officer with little military training, Hayes’ actions established a reputation for audacity and courage. 

“It had to be a defining moment for future President Rutherford B. Hayes,” declares McLean.  “He was in a tight spot. To a man his men praised him for his calm leadership that allowed them to successfully retreat from a far superior force.”

Hayes’ regiment, the 23^rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, produced an impressive number of future leaders in the post-war era, including two Presidents (Hayes and William McKinley), six generals, a U.S. Supreme Court justice, a U.S. senator, four congressmen, four governors, and four lieutenant governors.

McLean’s lecture will also illuminate some of the lesser-known stories of the invasion, including a curious incident involving Col. George S. Patton (grandfather of the famed WWII commander), as well as the exploits of Ellen Adair, whom McLean dubs “the Scarlett O’Hara of Giles County.”

The program is free and open to the public.  Call 540-921-1050 or visit www.gilescountyhistorical for more information.