General Stonewall Jackson
It's November 4, 1861. Ron Maxwell
Stonewall Jackson delivers his farewell address to the 1st Virginia (Stonewall) Brigade.
Jackson had commanded this Brigade, formed in the Shenandoah Valley, since Virginia's secession was ratified by its citizens in May '61. In late October '61 the Confederate government created a higher, independent field command for the Department of Northern Virginia, promoting Jackson to this new command.
In this scene from my movie ‘Gods&Generals,’ Jackson (played by Stephen Lang) takes his formal parting from the men he had led at Harper's Ferry and Manassas.
In his book, 'The Stonewall Brigade,' my dear friend, the late author and historian Bud Robertson, referred to the 1st Brigade as the *Cousin-Wealth of the Valley* - as so many of its members were actual brothers and cousins going to war together.
This speech, not in the adapted book of the same title, was added to the film as an essential moment in Jackson's story, as well as for the early months of the War. It's an insight into the devotion, respect, and commitment the soldiers had for Jackson and Jackson had for them.
It was amusing to read some of the movie reviewers when the movie was first released in 2003, who arrogantly asserted that no one in the 1860s talked like this. Wrong again! This speech is verbatim what Jackson spoke in this farewell address. It was written down by his aides as soon as it was spoken.
The Extended Director's Cut of 'Gods&Generals' is available on DVD/Blu-ray and instant streaming at Amazon Prime.
Additional movie clips, trailers, and interviews at my new YouTube channel:
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Stonewall Jackson delivers his farewell address to the 1st Virginia (Stonewall) Brigade.
Thomas Williams · Shared with Public
The passion and spirit in the Confederate Army from 1860 to 1864 was astonishing, and their struggle for independence, loyal to their states, reaching down within themself for courage, falling into disciplined ranks and charging the deadly enemy guns, over and over again. I respect them, seeing that kind of deep bravery, strength of purpose against all odds, that will stay with them in their life of fidelity for their homeland, dying and laying in their worthy grave of honor forever.
I always admired the warrior spirit of Stonewall Jackson. I think if he had lived, General Lee would not have chosen to use Pickett's Charge at Gettysburg, losing the war. In my opinion, Stonewall Jackson was the South's true leader, giving the Rebels a realistic chance for victory.
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