Generals Jackson's Death at
Guinea Station

 

General Jackson endured a torturous 27 mile, 12 hour wagon ride over rough, bumpy roads to the Chandler Plantation at Guinea Station. It was here where he was intended to recover until he could be transported by train to Richmond if needed. Doctors were initially optimistic as his recovery seemed to be progressing well. However, on May 7, Jackson's wife, Mary Anna, and 5 month old daughter, Julia Laura, arrived only to learn that he had contracted pneumonia and may not survive.

Upon learning this, Jackson said to his wife, "I know you would gladly give your life for me, but I am perfectly resigned. Do not be sad. I hope I may yet recover. Pray for me, but always remember in your prayers to use the petition, 'Thy will be done'." As his condition grew worse and his time was passing, the dying General said, "It is the Lord's day. My wish is fulfilled. I have always desired to die on Sunday."

 

His personal physician, Dr. Hunter McGuire, noted his final words.

    "A few moments before he died he cried out in his delirium, 'Order A.P. Hill to prepare for action! Pass the infantry to the front rapidly! Tell Major Hawks' -- then stopped, leaving the sentence unfinished. Presently a smile of ineffable sweetness spread itself over his pale face, and he said quietly, and with an expression, as if of relief, 'Let us cross over the river, and rest under the shade of the trees."