Today, historian Rick Britton talks about: This Week in Virginia History –
One of the biggest events this week in Virginia history was the May 10, 1863, death of Confederate Lieut. Gen. Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson following his accidental wounding eight days earlier at the absolute height of his military career–he had successfully led a flank attack against Union Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker’s right flank during the Battle of Chancellorsville.
Following this assault, Jackson and his staff, in the darkness, were scouting in between the lines. Returning to the Confederate lines, they were mistaken for Union cavalry by the 18th North Carolina Infantry regiment and fired upon. Jackson was hit by three bullets, two in the left arm and one in the right hand. Several other men in his staff were killed. Because of his injuries, Jackson’s left arm had to be amputated.
Jackson died of complications from pneumonia on May 10, 1863. His last words were “Let us cross over the river, and rest under the shade of the trees.”
His body was moved to the Governor’s Mansion in Richmond for the public to mourn, and he was then moved to be buried in Lexington, Virginia. As Jackson lay dying, Lee sent a message saying: “Give General Jackson my affectionate regards, and say to him: he has lost his left arm but I my right.”

ALSO: On Wednesday, May 24, Rick is leading a tour of two of “Stonewall” Jackson’s greatest victories in the Shenandoah Valley–the battles of Cross Keys & Port Republic. And will be visiting the Port Republic Museum. To register call the Senior Center Travel Office at (434) 974-6538.