South Mountain
Prelude to the Battle of Antietam, the Battle of South Mountain in September 1862 involved the Union and Confederate armies attempting to control passage through the mountain near Turner’s Gap. The 11th Regiment was positioned on the left flank supporting General Meade’s troops. With three brigades engaged in battle, the Army of the Potomac routed the Confederates who moved southward.
Hollingsworth’s involvement in the Battle of South Mountain led to an act of desertion during the battle. For approximately seven days, Hollingsworth’s activities are unknown to history. We can only surmise what Hollingsworth may have done while away from the 11th Regiment. It is also unknown why Hollingsworth chose to desert after this battle thereby missing the Battle of Antietam where 18 members of the regiment were killed and 40 were wounded. We can only hypothesize Hollingsworth’s missing days. It is possible that he camped out in South Mountain living off the land until he tired of the boredom and loneliness. Alternately, Hollingsworth may have attempted to reach Westmoreland County where his mother lived. Whatever happened in those days, Hollingsworth returned to active duty on September 21st joining Co E 18th Regiment PA Cavalry under the name Charles F. Hollingsworth.
Casualties for the 11th Regiment: 2 wounded