A. P. Hill's Light Division, Army of Northern Virginia

On May 26th 1862 Ambrose Powell Hill was promoted from Briadier General to Major General and was given the beginnings of what would become one of the priemer divisions of Lee's Army of Northern Viriginia.

In short order after this appointment, Maj Gen Hill was exercising command over the brigades of Field, Gregg, Anderson, (soon to be Thomas,) Branch, Archer, and Pender, as well as the artillery battalion of Walker.

None of these units had worked together, and it was up to Hill to mold them into a cohesive unit before the end of June. On June 1st A.P. Hill chose the title of "Light Division." No information exists as to why Hill chose this title, perhaps it was to enthuse the new command to a unitity of purpose, to have as a goal before it a reputation for alacrity and agility, or it could have been a antonym for the largest division in the ANV.

A soldier in Field's Brigade came to the conclusion, "The name was applicable, for we often marched without coats, blankets, knapsacks, or any other burden execpt our arms and haversacks, which were never heavy and sometimes empty." A member of the 14th TN wrote, "we became very proud of the Light Division, in large part because Gen Hill was an ideal soldier."

The efforts of A.P. Hill to weld these units into a remarkable weapon were soon to be noticed, one of Lee's inspectors wrote, "Hill's defenses are as well advanced as those of any part of the line. His troops are in fine condition, ... Hill is every inch a soldier and is destined to make his mark."

On June 26th, the Light Division started it's career with the Battle of Mechanicsville, followed the next day with Gaine's Mill. After being ordered around the back of the ANV, they took part in the battle of Frayser's Farm, and they were held in reserve at Malvern Hill.

After that, they continued in every battle that the Army of Northern Virginia engaged in, so much so that the name of A.P. Hill and his Light Division were on the lips of Gen T.J. Jackson, and R.E. Lee upon their deaths.

With regard to the environment known as War of Rights, it is the intent to gather those of like mindedness into a cohesive unit that will be proud to state that they are members.

To help those who are interested in creating a company and joining, please note, The Light Division is intended to be held to as close to realism as we can within the confines of the environment. Companies created will be owned by the creator and not directly by the Division, but while participating in Division oriented events, expected to follow Division procedure.

The LIght Division is intended to be an "At Will" organization. You come, you associate, you participate at your pleasure. If you decide to opt for a more rigid association that's perfectly acceptable.

You can find more information at the following links:

A. P. Hill's Light Division Brigade forums (Discussion Tab)[url]A. P. Hill's Light Division on War of Rights
A. P. Hill's Light Divison Group on War of Rights[www.warofrightsforum.com]
Division's Order of Battle