Battle of Bull Run - Union Cavalry - close up

The Union Cavalry from the Iron Brigade moves into position to support the Union Infantry during the Battle of Bull Run outside Manassas, Virginia on July 1863. The Iron Brigade was made up of men from 3 Western states and they were known through the War as the "Black Hats" because of the black 1858 model Hardee hats issued to Army regulars, rather than the blue kepis worn by most other units. Major General George B. McClellan stated about this Brigade, "they must be made of iron" after an engagement with them on the Brawner Farm. He also replied to Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker that the Iron Brigade consisted of "the best troops in the world".
This is the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Bull Run in Manassas, Virginia, Saturday, July 23, 2011.

Union CavalryBattle of Bull RunOfficer with unit flag carrierCivil War