Strong Vincent

Heroes of the Battle of Gettysburg have been written about since the conflict ended. OOPS! Writers have missed one of the most critical leaders of the battle, Col. Strong Vincent.

Strong went to college where he met his future wife, Elizabeth. He graduated from Harvard with a law degree and returned to Erie to become a lawyer.

Just as he was beginning his life as a lawyer and ready to marry Elizabeth, Civil War breaks out. In 1861, Lincoln calls for volunteers, and Strong Vincent is one to sign up. With no previous military experience, he worked his way from lieutenant to colonel. He led his men at the Battle of Fredericksburg, where his troops ended up spending a harrowing night on the ground dodging bullets fired by Confederate sharpshooters.

Vincent’s glory was obtained at the Battle of Gettysburg. When a vital part of the defensive line is left unguarded, Vincent led his little brigade to Little Round Top. Outnumbered by more than two-to-one, they had to put up a historic defense. If they surrendered this ground, Union victory would be in jeopardy.

Strong Vincent and the 83rd Pennsylvania explores how heroes are made and also explores the problems of a young couple, trying to hold on to a romance in the midst of war.