Boys of Wartime: Will at the Battle of Gettysburg (17 page)

 

Virginia “Jennie” Wade
was the only civilian killed during the battle. On the morning of July 3, while kneading bread dough for hungry soldiers, she was hit by a stray bullet and died.

 

Jacob and Sarah Weikert
, Hettie Shriver's parents, saw their farm overrun by soldiers during the battle. Like many of the homes and farms in and around Gettysburg, theirs became a hospital for thousands of wounded.

TIMELINE

GLOSSARY

abolitionist:
A person who wanted to end slavery.

 

artillery:
Large guns, including cannons.

 

belfry:
A bell tower on the top of a building.

 

Bluebellies:
A slang term for Union soldiers, who wore blue uniforms.

 

caisson:
A wagon used to hold ammunition.

 

cavalry:
Soldiers who fought on horseback.

 

confectionery:
A sweet shop, like a candy store or a bakery.

 

Confederate:
A supporter of the Southern states, known as the Confederate States of America.

 

Copperheads:
During the Civil War, people in the North who wanted to make peace with the Confederates instead of waging war to force them to remain in the Union.

 

crossroads:
The intersection of two or more roads.

 

double-quick:
A fast march, at double time.

 

field glasses:
Binoculars.

 

garret:
Attic.

 

greenback:
A dollar bill—paper money.

 

inaugurate:
To induct, or swear someone into office. When presidents are inaugurated, they often give a speech known as an inaugural address.