Sunset framed the final chapter of Second Manassas as three confederate brigades - all from Georgia - surged toward Sudley Road. The Rebel battle line numbered 3,000 soldiers and extended nearly a half mile in length. Their goal was not just to seize the high ground of Henry Hill but to completely destroy John Pope's army.
Despite the shock of the Confederate counterattack, the Union commander collected several brigades and worked feverishly to patch together a new defensive position. Union infantry deployed in Sudley Road, using the embankments as a breastwork, while several supporting batteries unlimbered on Henry Hill. The Confederates soon approached in full force.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service