This is Brigadier General Stephen Gano Burbridge, probably the most hated man in Kentucky history. He was in command of the Union forces which stormed Fort Hindman, Arkansas, and also acquitted himself as a capable soldier in the Vicksburg campaign. For this service he was given the command of the Department of Kentucky. He was the promulgator of the retributive executions of Rebel guerrillas in 1864 (though advised by Sherman and Grant), and he was somehow involved in the "Great Hog Swindle" of November 1864, an event which had extreme political consequences for the Commonwealth. He was also in command of the ill-fated first Saltville Raid. Contrary to popular belief (read "Rebel press"), Burbridge was recalled to Kentucky just as the fighting was finishing. A copy of the order is reproduced in the Official Records. Thus, General Burbridge did not flee the field to save his own life. Rather, he was obeying the orders of his commanding officer. After the war, Burbridge tried to defend himself in the press, but was unsuccessful. He moved to Brooklyn, NY, shortly after the war and died there a forgotten man. Today, mention of his name will make the average Kentucky Confederate curl his toes and scream bloody murder, though most can't explain why. While we do not believe that General Burbridge was a "sterling man," we do believe that much is attached to him that is unjust and most who condemn him can't explain why they do so.