Gleam of Bayonets

One of the bloodiest days in American military history, the Battle of Antietam turned the tide of the Civil War in favor of the North and delivered the first major defeat to Robert E. Lee's army. In The Gleam of Bayonets, James V. Murfin gives a compelling account of the events and personalities involved in this momentous battle. The gentleness and patience of Lincoln, the vacillations of McClellan, and the grandeur of Lee- all unfold before the reader. The battle itself is presented with precision and scope as Murfin blends together atmosphere and fact, emotions and tactics, into a dramatic and coherent whole. Originally published in 1965, The Gleam of Bayonets is now recognized as a classic and the standard against which all books on Antietam are measured.

The Gleam of Bayonets was the first book I ever read on the Maryland campaign of 1862 and the battle of Antietam, and it remains one of the best. I find myself going back to it time and again for information on the political and diplomatic context of the campaign as well as the military strategy and tactics. The reissue of this splendid book will make it available to a new generation of readers.--James M. McPherson, author of Crossroad of Freedom: Antietam, Murfin's The Gleam of Bayonets has stood the test of time. It was a groundbreaking study when it was first published [in 1965]. It remains one of a few essential volumes on the Maryland Campaign and the Battle of Antietam. I use it frequently in my work and regard it as one of the classic Civil War campaign and battle books.--Ted Alexander, Antietam National Battlefield

James V. Murfin (1929-1987) spent most of his life chronicling the dramatic battle that took place close to his boyhood home of Hagerstown, Maryland. He worked for the National Park Service in the Publication's Division at Harpers Ferry for seventeen years and was the author or editor of more than a dozen books, including Harpers Ferry and National Parks of the U.S.A. The Murfin Theater at Antietam National Battlefield Visitors Center is named in his honor.