Birthplace of a Confederate Hero

Birthplace of a Confederate HeroYear Erected: 1954

Marker Text: William Thomas Overby was born on this site in the 1840s. He enlisted May 31, 1861, in Co. A, 7th Regiment, Georgia Volunteer Infantry C.S.A. He later served with the 43rd Battalion, Virginia Cavalry, Mosby's Rangers, and participated in many raids that harassed the enemy.

On Friday, Sept. 23, 1864, Overby and five other Rangers were captured at Front Royal, Va. Overby was offered his freedom if he would reveal the hiding place of Mosby's Rangers. This he refused to do, so he was hanged without the benefit of a trial. He "lay down his life for his friends".

Tips for Finding This Marker: At the intersection of GA 34 and Thomas Overby Drive in Sharpsburg.