Grace, the Canine Mascot of the First Maryland Infantry, CSA

In the course of my research, I stumbled across an interesting story dog lovers might be interested to learn. As the Second Maryland Infantry marched to join the battle of Gettysburg, they encountered a stray dog, whom they adopted and named Grace. She took quickly to them, probably due to both the food and affection she received, and in her way she gave them comfort and companionship. She was even listed on the roster as the Unit Mascot.

When they reached the battlefield, Grace led the charge up Culp's Hill. Somehow she seemed to understand that she was with the men in gray, and ran around barking at the Union soldiers. When she returned to her boys of the Second Maryland Infantry, she was met with a sad display of dead and wounded. Confused and upset by the injury to her masters, Grace nudged at them in sorrow to get back up on their feet.

Sadly, Grace was killed in the battle, a loss which cut deeply into the hearts of the hardened soldiers who wept openly at the dog's loyalty and courage. Even the Union General Kane saw fit to order her a proper burial, referring to her as "the only Christian-minded being on either side." It is reported that before she died, Grace licked the hand of the Yankee soldier who tried to rescue her.

When painting the battle of Culp's Hill, Gettysburg P.A., the painter Rothermel included Grace in the scene, charging bravely up the hill.