The Union line before Petersburg

[ca. 1861–1865]

From "War Memories" catalog: From among a large number of views of the Petersburg lines, we select this as one that gives, perhaps, a better idea of our lines at Petersburg than any other view we have of them. First is seen the line of sharpened spikes or abbatis placed all along in front of the works to delay the enemy (in case of a charge) within short range of our guns. This moment of delay necessary to tear away this abbatis is deadly to the charging column. Then back of the abbatis the line of breastworks can be seen stretching away in the distance. Behind the breastworks is seen the rough made huts of the troops who defend the line.