Form Battalions! Wayside

This wayside depicts U.S. Army lines and columns in the beginning stages of the battle.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Brownsville, TX

Quote Text

We had a fair view of the enemy who were drawn up in line of battle about a mile and half from us, their left resting upon the road we were compelled to take in our route. A thick chaparral was a short distance in their rear and served to conceal their reserve. After getting water we were formed in line of battle and moved forward….When we had approached to within 600 yards, their cannon opened upon us. We halted and returned their fire. ~ John Porter Hatched, 2nd lieutenant

The Americans formed their battalions…Fire broke out in the moment that the enemy marched toward our lines. ~ José Luis Berlandier, captain

Main Text

General Taylor’s 2,300 soldiers entered the prairie you see from the northeast and formed a battleline about 350 yards to your left. The U.S. army was prepared to charge straight ahead at the line of Mexican regiments.

Image Description

Center 
Color lithograph depicting U.S. Army lines and columns in the beginning stages of the battle.