Lafayette McLaws, born January 15, 1821, in Augusta, Georgia, was a key figure during the Civil War. However, his story is not merely one of battlefields and military campaigns; it is also one of a man deeply tied to the culture and history of the South. McLaws spent much of his life in Georgia, and his connection to Savannah remains an integral part of his legacy.
Growing up in a family that valued tradition and service, his family’s ideals greatly contributed to the path he took in life. Bound for life in the military, he attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1842. Among his classmates were several future Civil War generals, including Ulysses S. Grant. After graduation, McLaws began his military career in the U.S. Army, serving in the Mexican-American War and other postings across the country. His dedication and discipline earned him a solid reputation, but his greatest challenges lay ahead.
When Georgia seceded from the Union in 1861, McLaws resigned his commission in the U.S. Army and joined the Confederate forces. This decision was not merely a professional pivot but a deeply personal one, reflecting his loyalty to his home state and the Southern cause.
McLaws played a significant role in several key battles of the Civil War. As a major general in the Confederate Army, he served under General Robert E. Lee in the Army of Northern Virginia. He is perhaps best remembered for his leadership during the Maryland Campaign, particularly the Battle of Antietam, and the Battle of Fredericksburg.
At Antietam, McLaws’ division held critical ground during one of the bloodiest days in American history. His efforts at Fredericksburg further solidified his reputation as a capable leader, as his troops contributed to the Confederate victory. However, his career was not without controversy. During the Knoxville Campaign in late 1863, McLaws’ performance came under scrutiny, leading to his reassignment. Although this marked a turning point in his military career, it did not diminish his contributions to the Confederate cause.
After the war, McLaws returned to Georgia and eventually settled in Savannah, where he became a respected member of the community. Like many Confederate officers, he faced the challenges of rebuilding his life in the post-war South. McLaws found work as a U.S. postal inspector, a role that allowed him to travel extensively while maintaining a steady livelihood.
Despite the divisive legacy of the Civil War, McLaws became a figure of reconciliation and civic engagement in Savannah. He was a prominent member of local veterans’ organizations and often participated in events commemorating the Confederacy. His presence in Savannah served as a reminder of the city’s connection to the larger story of the Civil War and its aftermath.
His death came on July 24, 1897, and he was buried in Laurel Grove Cemetery in Savannah. His grave, marked by a simple headstone, is a site of historical interest for those seeking to understand the city’s past.
McLaws’ legacy, like that of many Civil War figures, is complex. To some, he is a symbol of courage and dedication; to others, his role in the Confederate cause raises difficult questions about loyalty and morality. Regardless of perspective, McLaws remains an essential figure in
Savannah’s history, offering insights into the city’s experiences during one of the most controversial periods in American history.
For visitors to Savannah, the story of Lafayette McLaws provides a window into the city’s Civil War history. At Wise Guys Tours, we delve into the lives of figures like McLaws to give you a deeper understanding of Savannah’s past. Join us to explore the rich tapestry of stories that make this city truly unique.