I also agree that Culp’s Hill is the most fascinating and under-studied part of the main battle area. I always had my USMA cadet groups stand near Spangler’s Spring and talk about the bravery of the Massachusetts and Indiana regiments that attacked across that open field, and about the importance of following orders, even when a leader thinks those orders are wrong. Then a walk up into the saddle between Lower and Upper Culp’s to see the opposing Maryland U.S. and Maryland C.S. markers.
Cheers!

I have always considered Shaara’s book and Turner’s movie to be sort of a “Valentine” to Chamberlain, and for that matter, to Longstreet, and I agree that the book and movie have certainly focused undue attention on St. Joshua. A walk past the tourist shops on Steinweher Avenue, each brimming with “Don’t Call Me Lawrence” T-Shirts, is evidence. On the other hand, anything that gets people (especially kids) interested in any historic site is OK by me. As for Greene and Culp’s Hill, you’re absolutely right. The silver lining, if there is one, is that the summit of Culp’s Hill is one place on the field where you can escape the crowds, explore a little, and be alone with your thoughts. My GGG-Father (3rd NC) was one of the men who tried to take Culp’s Hill from Greene and I’ve always enjoyed visiting that part of the field.

Randy

It is amazing what can be done with a novel and movie that a good piece of historical research couldn’t do.

There’s no doubt, and anything that gets people there can’t be all bad. I just hope that they are able to see that there’s more to this story than just the story of St. Josh.

Eric