Gettysburg and Boots

[Jim Garrett]

If I remember correctly, Lees objective was to get north of Washington DC and turn south toward the city. Some say Lee wanted to take Harrisburg and his foray into Pennsylvania certainly put Governor Curtin into panic. Gettysburg was a transportation hub with many roads through the town. Regardless of Lee's destination, he would have to travel through the town.

Remember, Lee did not have his cavalry screening his movement or acting as his "eyes and ears". The cavalry had very vague orders from Lee and acted very independently during that campaign up until their arrival at Gettysburg.