Civil War historian Phil Vitiello will describe Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain’s crucial role in the Union’s ability to hold its position in the Battle of Gettysburg, in his remarks to the New Canaan Men’s Club meeting Jan. 3. The club’s meeting, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 111 Oenoke Ridge, will begin at 10 a.m.
In his remarks, Vitiello will explain how Chamberlain’s successful leadership in defending the battlefield area at Gettysburg known as Little Round Top, led to the Union’s success, and enabled the forces to launch a bayonet charge against the Confederate forces, significantly contributing to the Union victory. For his leadership, Chamberlain was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Vitiello, a Civil War re-enactor for more than 40 years, has visited Civil War sites throughout the east. Professionally, he is director of Marketing for Northeast Food Marketing.
Vitiello’s comments will recount how Chamberlain, a professor of rhetoric and modern languages at Bowdoin College, continued to serve in the Civil War and participated in campaigns around Appomattox and Petersburg. In 1865, as a brigadier general, he was named to lead the Union troops at the formal surrender of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia.
After the war, Chamberlain served as Maine’s governor and, later, Bowdoin’s president.
The Men’s Club has openings for new members, men 55-years and above. For information, email ncmens@ncmens.info