11/24/2025
A little late from last week. Interesting none the less.
A Meeting with the Hero of Gettysburg: John Burns.
Lincoln had requested a meeting with John Burns, the 69 year old veteran of the War of 1812 and the only citizen who helped fight for his hometown.
John Burns captivated Lincoln with an account of his deeds during the opening day of the Battle of Gettysburg. He recounted how he approached the Union lines on McPherson’s Ridge, his appearance setting him apart: a blue swallow-tailed coat, a high silk hat that had clearly seen better days, and his trusty musket in hand. Upon reaching the 150th Pennsylvania regiment, Burns received permission to fight from the cover of the nearby woods, offering some protection from the relentless enemy fire.
As Burns prepared for combat, a wounded Union soldier, amused by his outdated flintlock, handed him an Enfield rifle along with ammunition. Taking a position behind a sturdy tree, Burns demonstrated his resolve by firing 28 rounds at the advancing Confederate troops. He proudly claimed that three of his shots struck their targets. Despite his courage, Burns was wounded in his arm, thigh, and leg as the battle raged around him.
