John Buford Jr., a name synonymous with strategic brilliance and unwavering resolve, played a pivotal role in shaping the course of the American Civil War, particularly at the Battle of Gettysburg. Born on March 4, 1826, in Woodford County, Kentucky, Buford’s early life took him to Rock Island, Illinois, where his family established deep roots. His path to military distinction began with a year at Knox College before he secured an appointment to the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Graduating in 1848, Buford embarked on a career that would see him rise through the ranks and leave an indelible mark on American military history.
Commissioned as a second lieutenant into the 1st Dragoon Regiment, Buford quickly demonstrated his aptitude for cavalry command. His early service in the 2nd Dragoon Regiment provided him with invaluable experience in cavalry operations, setting the stage for his future contributions during the Civil War.
Alt Text: Portrait of Brigadier General John Buford in full Union Army uniform, showcasing his stern and determined expression, typical of Civil War era photography.
As the nation plunged into Civil War, Captain John Buford’s expertise was quickly recognized. Elevated to major in November 1861, he served as assistant inspector general for the defenses of Washington D.C., a crucial role in safeguarding the Union capital. His career trajectory ascended further when Major General John Pope, commander of the Army of Virginia, recognized Buford’s leadership potential. In July 1862, Buford received a brigadier general’s commission and command of the cavalry brigade within the II Corps of the Army of Virginia. He distinguished himself during the Second Battle of Manassas, even after sustaining a knee injury from a spent bullet, showcasing his dedication amidst adversity. Throughout the Maryland campaign and at Fredericksburg, Buford served as chief of cavalry, first under Major General George B. McClellan and later under Major General Ambrose E. Burnside, demonstrating his adaptability and strategic acumen under different commands. Following the cavalry reorganization under Major General Joseph Hooker, Buford was entrusted with the Reserve Brigade of the Cavalry Corps. Prior to his defining moment at Gettysburg, Buford led his division in significant cavalry engagements at Brandy Station and Upperville in June 1863, honing his skills in large-scale cavalry operations.
Alt Text: Historical map depicting the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg, illustrating troop positions and the geographical layout crucial to understanding John Buford’s defensive strategies.
The Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863 cemented John Buford’s legacy as a tactical mastermind. As commander of the 1st Division of the Cavalry Corps, Buford’s encounter with Confederate forces outside Gettysburg on July 1st proved to be a turning point. Outnumbered and facing elements of A.P. Hill’s Confederate III Corps, Buford made a critical decision. Understanding the vital importance of holding the high ground, he strategically deployed his dismounted troopers, under Colonel William Gamble, to delay the Confederate advance along the Cashtown Road. This masterful defensive maneuver, executed with limited resources, bought invaluable time for Major General John F. Reynolds’ Union First Corps to arrive and reinforce the position. Buford’s calculated gamble ensured the Union Army secured the strategically vital terrain that would become the cornerstone of their defensive strategy for the remainder of the battle, arguably changing the tide of the entire Civil War.
In the aftermath of Gettysburg, Buford continued to demonstrate his relentless pursuit of the enemy, harassing the retreating Confederates all the way back to the Potomac River. His cavalry engaged in numerous clashes during this pursuit, including engagements at Williamsport, Boonsboro, Funkstown, and Falling Waters. Throughout the fall of 1863, Buford remained active in operations around central Virginia, playing a key role in covering Major General George Meade’s strategic withdrawal during the Bristoe Campaign in October.
Tragically, Buford’s relentless service took a heavy toll. During the Rappahannock campaign in November 1863, he contracted typhoid fever, forcing him to take sick leave. On his deathbed on December 16, 1863, recognition for his exceptional service arrived in the form of a promotion to major general. President Lincoln himself acknowledged Buford’s critical contributions, particularly at Gettysburg, ensuring this posthumous honor. Upon receiving news of his promotion, a skeptical Buford questioned, “Does he mean it?” Assured of its genuineness, his poignant reply, “It is too late, now I wish I could live,” encapsulates the selfless dedication and sacrifice that defined his career. John Buford passed away later that day, and was laid to rest at West Point, near another Gettysburg hero, Lieutenant Alonzo Cushing. John Buford’s strategic foresight and battlefield tenacity at Gettysburg remain a testament to his military genius, forever solidifying his place as a key figure in the Union victory and a true hero of the Civil War.
