March 23, 1863---Mosby's Rangers make their mark

MARCH 23, 1863:   

 

John Singleton Mosby led a guerrilla force of mounted cavalry during the latter half of the Civil War. They were famous as "Mosby's Rangers," and they operated in Union-controlled territory in what is present-day "Beltway" Virginia.

On this day, Mosby and 55 of his Rangers encountered about 100 troopers of the 5th New York Cavalry commanded by Lieutenant Robert “Outhouse” Johnstone. Mosby turned westward to avoid the larger force, but as the Rangers rode down the turnpike (present day Route 50) Mosby noticed some downed trees on both shoulders of the road, and he posted several of his men in hiding behind those trees and brush. When the 5th New York reached the point where Mosby's men were concealed, the Rangers opened fire and the New Yorkers fled. Mosby's mounted force then attacked, killing five Union troopers, wounding several, and capturing 36.

As a result of this fight, Mosby was promoted Captain. Mosby ended the war as a Colonel. His force never surrendered to the Union; in April 1865, they merely disbanded.

Mosby actually started the war as a private soldier. As a young man, he murdered a notorious bully who had threatened him. Mosby was jailed, but his case was reviewed by the Governor of Virginia who pardoned him after it was discovered that his victim had a history of threatening and then killing other men. While in jail Mosby studied law, and became a successful lawyer in private life. 

As a commander, he maintained his quasi-independent force of horsemen at peak effectiveness. Slackers were sent to The Army of Northern Virginia. His troopers called him “Old Mose” or “Our Mose” with pride. It’s said that Mosby’s men “did not love him” and that he was “cold” and “utterly selfish” but his Rangers were among the most effective troops in the Confederacy, able to move freely behind Union lines even in the last days of the war. Deeply respected by J.E.B. Stuart and by Robert E. Lee, Mosby was famed but did not let it impede his command ability. 

Although Mosby affected a plumed hat and a cape with a scarlet silk lining in full dress, he was all business in the field, often ranging far afield alone. When General George B. McClellan U.S.A. bid his troops farewell, Mosby was among those present --- reconnoitering while hidden in some nearby bushes.