The monument to Thomas’ Brigade of the Army of Northern Virginia is southwest of Gettysburg on West Confederate Avenue. (Tour map: West Confederate Avenue – Pt. 2)

The brigade was commanded at Gettysburg by Brigadier General Edward L. Thomas, a Georgia plantation owner who had led an independent company in the Mexican War.

Although involved in none of the major attacks at Gettysburg, Thomas’ men suffered significant casualties in “heavy skirmishing” around the Bliss farm and from artillery on July 3rd.

From the monument:

C. S. A.
Army of Northern Virginia
Hills Corps Pender’s Division
Thomas’ Brigade

14th 35th 45th 49th Georgia Infantry

July 1. In reserve north of Chambersburg Pike on left of the Division. At sunset moved to position in McMillan’s Woods.

July 2. On duty in support of artillery. At 10 P. M. advancing took position in Long Lane with left flank in touch with McGowan’s Brigade and the right near the Bliss House and Barn.

July 3. Engaged most of the day in severe skirmishing and exposed to a heavy fire of artillery. After dark retired to this Ridge.

Present about 1200 Killed 34 Wounded 179 Missing 57 Total 270