traveller horse washington and lee

Horse and Man

Exploring the bond between equines and their people..

On Memorial Day, Let’s honor a War Horse Veteran: Traveller. A difficult horse but Robert E. Lee loved him and made him famous.

On this Memorial Day, I wanted to speak about a loved war horse.

ORIGINALLY POSTED AUGUST 4 2011

The reason I chose Traveller is because I know nothing about Southern history and because it seems that Robert E. Lee was in the minority in his love for this particular horse…  Traveller wasn’t your garden variety, easy to love, easy to ride horse.  He was a bit of a pain.  <smiling>

It gives me pleasure to write about a horse that most would dump but that one cherished – and from that, they built a very strong, unbreakable bond.

General Lee and Traveller

From all accounts, Traveller was difficult, high strung, a bit unruly, pranced or jigged wherever he went and was generally on Defcon 1 most of the time.

But, he was also striking and regal.  He wasn’t too tall, conformed well, of good flesh and was a flashy dappled grey horse with a black mane and tail.

Here is how Traveller was described before he was sold to General Lee:

Greenbrier (his name then)… was greatly admired in camp for his rapid, springy walk, his high spirit, bold carriage, and muscular strength. He needed neither whip nor spur, and would walk his five or six miles an hour over the rough mountain roads of Western Virginia with his rider sitting firmly in the saddle and holding him in check by a tight rein, such vim and eagerness did he manifest to go right ahead so soon as he was mounted.

Obviously an artist’s rendition, but fun to see them in color!  Traveller looks asleep… I like to check out the gear!

There are other accounts that don’t hold Greenbrier in such acclaim… Oh sure, he was pretty and spirited, but not that many wanted to ride him, if you know what I mean…

The first time General Lee saw Greenbrier, owned by Joseph Broun, he called the mount, “My Colt”.

I guess you don’t mess with a General when he wants your horse…

Actually, that wasn’t exactly how it happened.  The owner of young Jeff Davis (Traveller’s born name in honor of the Confederate president) was honored to have General Lee take an interest in his colt.

Rare photo of the pair

Luckily, I found a first hand account of that encounter and the subsequent sales transaction.

Here you go:

“In view of the fact that great interest is felt in the monument about to be erected to General Lee, and that many are desirous that his war-horse should be represented in the monument, and as I once owned this horse, I herewith give you some items respecting this now famous war-horse, Traveller.?       

“He was raised by Mr. Johnston, near the Blue Sulphur Springs, in Greenbrier county, Virginia (now West Virginia); was of the ‘ Gray Eagle’ stock, and, as a colt, took the first premium under the name of ‘Jeff Davis’ at the Lewisburg fairs for each of the years 1859 and 1860. He was four years old in the spring of 1861. When the Wise legion was encamped on Sewell mountain, opposing the advance of the Federal Army under Rosecranz, in the fall of 1861, I was major to the Third regiment of infantry in that legion, and my brother, Captain Joseph M. Broun, was quartermaster to the same regiment.?       

“I authorized my brother to purchase a good serviceable horse of the best Greenbrier stock for our use during the war.?       

“After much inquiry and search he came across the horse above mentioned, and I purchased him for $175 (gold value), in the fall of 1861, from Captain James W. Johnston, son of the Mr. Johnston first above mentioned. When the Wise legion was encamped about Meadow Bluff and Big Sewell mountains, I rode this horse, which was then greatly admired in camp for his rapid, springy walk, his high spirit, bold carriage, and muscular strength.           

“When General Lee took command of the Wise legion and Floyd brigade that were encamped at and near Big Sewell mountains, in the fall of 1861, he first saw this horse, and took a great fancy to it. He called it his colt, and said that he would use it before the war was over. Whenever the General saw my brother on this horse he had something pleasant to say to him about ‘my colt,’ as he designated this horse. As the winter approached, the climate in the West Virginia mountains caused Rosecranz’s army to abandon its position on Big Sewell and retreat westward. General Lee was thereupon ordered to South Carolina. The Third regiment of the Wise legion was subsequently detached from the army in Western Virginia and ordered to the South Carolina coast, where it was known as the Sixtieth Virginia regiment, under Colonel Starke. Upon seeing my brother on this horse near Pocotalipo, in South Carolina, General Lee at once recognized the horse, and again inquired of him pleasantly about ‘his colt.’   

This is where it happened!

“My brother then offered him the horse as a gift, which the General promptly declined, and at the same time remarked: ‘If you will willingly sell me the horse, I will gladly use it for a week or so to learn its qualities.’ Thereupon my brother had the horse sent to General Lee’s stable. In about a week the horse was returned to my brother, with a note from General Lee stating that the animal suited him, but that he could not longer use so valuable a horse in such times, unless it was his own; that if he (my brother) would not sell, please to keep the horse, with many thanks. This was in February, 1862. At that time I was in Virginia, on the sick list from a long and severe attack of camp fever, contracted in the campaign on Big Sewell mountains. My brother wrote me of General Lee’s desire to have the horse, and asked me what he should do. I replied at once: ‘If he will not accept it, then sell it to him at what it cost me.’ He then sold the horse to General Lee for $200 in currency, the sum of $25 having been added by General Lee to the price I paid for the horse in September, 1861, to make up the depreciation in our currency from September, 1861, to February, 1862.?       

“In 1868 General Lee wrote to my brother, stating that this horse had survived the war–was known as ‘Traveller’ (spelling the word with a double l in good English style), and asking for its pedigree, which was obtained, as above mentioned, and sent by my brother to General Lee.”  

TRAVELLER IN BATTLE

Evidently, this horse may have been spooky and hot, but he was brave.  It is stated that Traveller went into battle more than any other Civil War horse.

In fact, several accounts stated that General Lee’s men had to often grab Traveller and push him to the back of the pack because General Lee could not be on the front lines – even though the horse wanted to be there.

Some of the most dramatic incidents involving Lee and Traveller occurred during the Overland campaign in 1864, when soldiers literally grabbed the horse’s reins to prevent their commander from personally leading attacks on six occasions between May 6 and May 12.

The most notable incident occurred in the Wilderness on May 6, when soldiers of the Texas Brigade surrounded Traveller and shouted, ‘Lee to the rear!’ That day Traveller carried Lee until well after midnight, and when they finally returned to camp, Lee dismounted, and overcome with exhaustion, he threw his arms around Traveller’s neck to hold himself up.

Joseph Broun’s brother, Thomas L. Broun, praised Traveller for needing ‘neither whip nor spur, and would walk his five or six miles an hour over the rough mountain road of Western Virginia…such vim and eagerness did he manifest to go right ahead so soon as he was mounted.’  It was often reported that Lee rode Traveller over 40 miles a day.  In fact, Lee re-named Jeff Davis “Traveller” because of his ability to walk quickly.

Monument to General Lee and Traveller

A BIT DIFFICULT, HOWEVER

As much as Lee loved his horse, Traveller was known to be a bit difficult.  He jigged everywhere he went.  He had to be in the front of the line.  He reared.  He spooked.  He was fussy.

There was the time that Traveller reared and broke both of Lee’s hands… and there was the time that Lee has his son, Robert Jr, ride Traveller.   This was supposed to be an honor but here is the tale described by Junior:

The general (his father) had the strongest affection for Traveller, which he showed on all occasions, and his allowing me to ride him on this long march was a great compliment. Possibly he wanted to give me a good hammering before he turned me over to the cavalry. During my soldier life, so far, I had been on foot, having backed nothing more lively than a tired artillery horse; so I mounted with some misgivings, though I was very proud of my steed. My misgivings were fully realized, for Traveller would not walk a step. He took a short, high trot — a buck-trot, as compared with a buck-jump — and kept it up to Fredericksburg, some thirty miles. Though young, strong, and tough, I was glad when the journey ended. This was my first introduction to the cavalry service. I think I am safe in saying that I could have walked the distance with much less discomfort and fatigue. My father having thus given me a horse and presented me with one of his swords, also supplied my purse so that I could get myself an outfit suitable to my new position, and he sent me on to join my command, stationed not far away on the Rappahannock, southward from Fredericksburg.

THE LOVE AFFAIR

It seems the love and respect for each other was mutual.

Here is how Traveller felt about General Lee:

One afternoon in July of this year, the General rode down to the canal-boat landing to put on board a young lady who had been visiting his daughters and was returning home. He dismounted, tied Traveller to a post, and was standing on the boat making his adieux, when someone called out that Traveller was loose. Sure enough, the gallant grey was making his way up the road, increasing his speed as a number of boys and men tried to stop him. General Lee immediately stepped ashore, called to the crowd to stand still, and advancing a few steps gave a peculiar low whistle. At the first sound, Traveller stopped and pricked up his ears. The General whistled a second time, and the horse with a glad whinny turned and trotted quietly back to his master, who patted and coaxed him before tying him up again. To a bystander expressing surprise at the creature’s docility the General observed that he did not see how any man could ride a horse for any length of time without a perfect understanding being established between them.

Such a sweet expression on that horse.  Nice.

Here is how General Lee felt about Traveller… this excerpt is from a letter to his daughter when she had commissioned an artist to paint Traveller:

If I were an artist like you I would draw a true picture of Traveller — representing his fine proportions, muscular figure, deep chest and short back, strong haunches, flat legs, small head, broad forehead, delicate ears, quick eye, small feet, and black mane and tail. Such a picture would inspire a poet, whose genius could then depict his worth and describe his endurance of toil, hunger, thirst, heat, and cold, and the dangers and sufferings through which he passed. He could dilate upon his sagacity and affection and his invariable response to every wish of his rider. He might even imagine his thoughts, through the long night marches and days of battle through which he has passed.

But I am no artist; I can only say he is a Confederate grey. I purchased him in the mountains of Virginia in the autumn of 1861, and he has been my patient follower ever since — to Georgia, the Carolinas, and back to Virginia. He carried me through the Seven Days battle around Richmond, the Second Manassas, at Sharpsburg, Fredericksburg, the last day at Chancellorsville, to Pennsylvania, at Gettysburg, and back to the Rappahannock. From the commencement of the campaign in 1864 at Orange, till its close around Petersburg, the saddle was scarcely off his back, as he passed through the fire of the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor, and across the James River. He was almost in daily requisition in the winter of 1864-65 on the long line of defenses from Chickahominy, north of Richmond, to Hatcher’s Run, south of the Appomattox. In the campaign of 1865, he bore me from Petersburg to the final days at Appomattox Court House. You must know the comfort he is to me in my present retirement….Of all his companions in toil, ‘Richmond,’ ‘Brown Roan,’ ‘Ajax,’ and quiet ‘Lucy Long,’ he is the only one that retained his vigor. The first two expired under their onerous burden, the last two failed. You can, I am sure, from what I have said, paint his portrait. R.E. Lee

An artist’s depiction

RETIREMENT AND DEATH

Lee spent his final years as president of Washington College in Lexington, Va., where Traveller was allowed to graze the campus. He lost numerous hairs from his mane and tail as admirers plucked them for souvenirs.   Ha!  I read a letter from General Lee to his daughter where he stated that Traveller is going BALD from all the students grabbing hair samples!

Lee became ill in September 1870, and on October 12 he died at his home in Lexington.

Traveller walked behind the hearse at Lee’s funeral and continued to be well cared for up until his death in June 1871. After stepping on a nail and contracting tetanus, commonly known as lockjaw, Traveller was euthanized.

Traveller was initially buried behind the main buildings of the college, but was unearthed by persons unknown and his bones were bleached for exhibition in Rochester, New York, in 1875/1876.

In 1907, Richmond journalist Joseph Bryan paid to have the bones mounted and returned to the college, named Washington and Lee University since Lee’s death, and they were displayed in the Brooks Museum, in what is now Robinson Hall.

The skeleton was periodically vandalized there by students who carved their initials in it for good luck. In 1929, the bones were moved to the museum in the basement of the Lee Chapel, where they stood for 30 years, deteriorating with exposure. (So sad…) Finally in 1971, Traveller’s remains were buried in a wooden box encased in concrete next to the Lee Chapel on the Washington & Lee campus, a few feet away from the Lee family crypt inside, where his master’s body rests.

It is tradition for the students to put overturned pennies and offerings on Traveller’s grave.

I love this part…  The stable where he lived his last days (directly connected to the Lee House on campus) traditionally stands with its doors left open; this is said to allow Traveller’s spirit to wander freely as he did when he was alive.

However, the 24th President of Washington & Lee (and thus a recent resident of Lee House), Dr. Thomas Burish, caught strong criticism from many members of the Washington & Lee community for closing the stable gates in violation of this tradition. Burish later had the doors to the gates repainted in a dark green color, which he referred to in campus newspapers as “Traveller Green.”

I guess he was trying to redeem himself… but I like it.

Nice that he is finally buried next to his beloved human companion

WAS TRAVELLER A WALKING HORSE?

Many people think Traveller was a Tennessee Walking Horse.  I’ve heard he was what became a Kentucky Saddler which then became the Saddlebred.

Maybe…  But for sure, his sire wasn’t.  Traveller’s sire was Grey Eagle, a great Thoroughbred race horse who was also grey.

FINAL THOUGHTS

There is a horse for everyone. The great Traveller was considered gorgeous and difficult.  But, he was greatly loved, and still is…

Some say that they were much alike…

HORSE AND MAN is a blog in growth… if you like this, please pass it around!

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37 comments have been posted...

Beautiful story! They are both in heaven.

Beautiful,excellent,touching article.I learned a lot.Thank you!

I, too thought that Traveller had the characteristics of a hot blooded Arabian type gaited breed, which was the ancestor of the paso fino. Christopher Columbus brought some of them on his voyage to the new world. Having been a showman and breeder of Paso Finos, this horse’s personality reminded me of my very own favorite horse. Though some would have thought him jiggy, I understood his high spiritedness and hot blood… it was part of his nature. He took care of me in the show ring, riding trails, parading, playtime and finally as my trusted steed for my students. Short backed and strong, he reminded me very much of my own sweet boy.

My grandmother was a direct descendant of the lee name and I damn proud of it Jeff Jefferson. That statue was paid for in blood

Was Traveler a gelding? Gen. Lee called him “his colt” but was he? Can’t imagine trying to handle a stallion all that time and constantly moving so many miles.

My two cents.. Those who say Traveller was not a walking horse are correct, the breed specific was,not established then..but his breeding suggests foundation stock, the walkers came from Kentucky saddle horses and saddlebred, somewhere they picked up the gene C RT 3 which all broken gaited. horses have but trotting horses do not. Also that terrible ride described in the article, could have been avoided with some collection and speed control, sounds like a hard pace or a rack which do jar your brains out ! Great story, loved it !

Thank you for such a great horse article. As an avid horse lover and owner, I appreciate such storiss as this that demonstrate what incredible souls these amazing creatures are. Thank you

Wonderful to read such a great feeling article about Gen Lee and Traveller. They were true heroes. Here in Texas (Austin) they are taking the statues of the heroic fighters of the civil war off some college campus because they were confederates. And this is at the COLLEGE level You’d think the folks could see the History involved and not be so petty. I just do not understand. Look forward to reading the book.

I so enjoyed this article about my favorite General and his beautiful mount . I have many prints of Lee and Traveller , that I purchased on campus at Lees Chapel .

Adams [author of “Watership Down”] wrote a wonderful novel which he called simply “Traveller” as if the horse was telling the story of their experiences. I get teary every time I read the ending, particularly Lee’s death through his horse’s eyes which he simply cannot understand. I wrote about this for a column I did for the National Sporting Library a few years ago. .

When I write from my own voice, I use my own references. ‘Defcon 11’ was a reference to the famous line in the movie, Spinal Tap. However, I am happy to change this for you.

I wish I could PM the author and editor. This is a nice article that will inspire more. But there’s one small thing that clangs like an out of tune chime.

A historical article should be accurate, yes? Being an article about a war hero would make accurate military references important, too, yes?

Then, it should be noted that the DEFCON 11 comment is really inaccurate. Being raised with brothers who made it a point that I know these things, this attempt at hyperbole stuck out like a sore thumb to me.

First, DEFCON 1 is the most severe level. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/DEFCON We want to think the higher the number the more severe.

Second, DEFCON scale only goes to 5, which is the least severe.

If the author and editor wish to be accurate, if they hope to be quoted in the future by a student writing a history paper, this it’d bit should change. Further, it’s never a bad idea to do a little more research for the article.

My understanding was that both “Ajax and “Lucy Long” both, along with “Taveller”, survived the war and, rather than “failed”, died quite some time later. (“Lucy Long” of extreme old age; and the too–tall–for–short–legged–Lee, “Ajax”, like “Traveller”, of an unfortunate accident.

Hi: I am only the blogger and I wrote this piece long ago. I so know that I took all those photos off of the internet. You can easily Google the photos you want and potentially find a page that sells them.

Do you have copies of the pictures with robert e lee and traveller that are for sale and if not, could you recommend a website?

I grew up at the foot of Big Sewell Mountain. The mountain where General Lee camped and bought Traveler has been called Lee’s Tree since he was there. The drive off the mountain is beautiful. There was a restaurant across the road during my youth that afforded a beautiful view of the mountains. We from that area are honored to know that General Lee was there and bought his horse there. West Virginia did not secede from the Union. President Lincoln made a proclamation making it a state. Can you imagine the heartache our families and ancestors felt being separated from their beloved Virginia? I am happy that I came across this blog.

The picture of the General leaning on a tree and Traveller looking on is marvelous. Can anyone give me info about the picture, who took it, where it was, etc.,etc. Its the one with the caption: “Such a sweet expression on that horse. Nice.”

I read a book years ago by an author from England who wrote the story of Traveler from the “horse’s mouth” and with a Southern accent. Does anyone know that author?

Thank you for sharing about your wonderful, long-lived horse!

Thank you for a wonderful article. My first and greatest horse was a Grey TB Ghostbuster born in Argentina and was very high strung, athletic, and a fabulous Fox Hunter who took care of me for many years in Middleburg area hunts. He shared many personality traits with Traveller. He became family and lived to be 31.

Thanks for the article. We’ve always loved traveller, even have a steel engraving of Lee on Traveller in our dining room!

Thank you so much for your article. A couple of comments. Traveller looks to me like he has Arabian blood. His spirit and his face belie the intelligence and good grace of the breed. The rock carving pictured in the article is Stone Mountain in Georgia. It is said that the carving is so large that a bus could be parked on Traveller’s rump! In the laser light shows, the figures do come alive and gallop around the mountain.

It would make sense that Traveller had some thoroughbred/Arabian blood in him. The jigging, stamina, small hooves and ears all point to a hot blood

Thank you, Dawn, for this great article. I’ll post a link on Zenyatta’s blog for all the horse history buffs.

Wonderful account of a great relationship.

i just rescued a horse named Traveller.

“When General Lee took command of the Wise legion and Floyd brigade that were encamped at and near Big Sewell mountains, in the fall of 1861…”

Actually, what happened here is that President Davis sent Lee as an observer to that area in 1861, not as commander. Lee made suggestions, but because he was not the actual field commander, those suggestions were not binding as orders. Lee only took a field command in 1862 when General Johnston was wounded in the opening days of the Seven Days campaign. Had Lee been made field commander in 1861 and placed in command over the Wise and Floyd troops, I have no doubt he would have been able to disrupt the Union’s flow of material and communications between the east coast and Great Lakes basin. That would have been fatal to the Union strategy. As it turned out, the failure of the West Virginia campaign meant that the war would be fought out in Southern territory (for the most part).

God bless General Lee and his eternal friend Traveller. Thank you!

Proud graduate of Gauley Bridge High School (now closed) in Fayette County, WV. We were the Gauley Bridge ‘Travellers’ and everyone there knew the story of this fine animal.

Thank you for this article. It seems that in contrary to popular belief General Robert E Lee did indeed consult Jeff Davis before the Farewell Address. Traveller’s name at birth was Jeff Davis, and the only thing Gen. Lee had to do was to consult his horse.

What a wonderful story. I could relate to it very keenly because I own a difficult horse myself and in a strange way it makes him all the more endearing. Thanks for sharing this.

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You are thinking of “Traveller” by Richard Adams.

Mary Ann, the book is called “Traveller: A Novel” and was written in 1988 by Richard Adams (author of “Watership Down”). I just read it last year and thoroughly enjoyed it, though the narrative style can be a bit difficult to follow. Dawn, you ought to check it out! :-)

Thanks again for yet another interesting horse story!

Does anyone know the name and author of the Novel written about Traveler? Read it YEARS ago and can only remember I loved the story a fictional story told from Travelers point of view….

As someone who grew up in the south and in Dallas, TX, where Lee Park has the big statue you have included in your piece, I grew up in the shadow of Lee and Traveler. We regularly drove by Lee Park. Gotta love that big horse, and Lee, forever the gentleman, bought the horse, did not just take it. What a special bond they had.Thanks for sharing this great story.

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The most comprehensive and authoritative history site on the Internet.

Whatever Became of Traveller?

General Robert E. Lee’s favorite mount was revered almost as much as his master. The American Saddlebred gelding—in Lee’s words “a Confederate grey”—was born in the lush Greenbrier Valley of present-day West Virginia and displayed the best qualities of the breed: well muscled and spirited with an easy gait.

Traveller accompanied Lee into his postwar career as president of Washington College, now Washington and Lee University, in Lexington, Va. Souvenir hunters pulled so many hairs from the horse’s mane and tail that Lee remarked, “He is presenting the appearance of a plucked chicken.” The two became a familiar sight on campus and off, frequently riding through the Blue Ridge hills of Rockbridge County.

When Lee died in 1870, Traveller followed the hearse in the funeral procession, his bridle and saddle swathed in mourning crepe and Lee’s boots facing backward in the stirrups, the sign of a fallen soldier. The general was buried on the college grounds in the family crypt beneath Lee Chapel. Traveller died the following year of tetanus; his remains are now interred just outside the chapel. The United Daughters of the Confederacy marked Traveller’s grave with a plaque where apples and carrots are still often left as an offering to, as poet Stephen Vincent Benet immortalized him, one of the “jewels of the horseman”:

They bred such horses in Virginia then, Horses that are remembered after death And buried not so far from Christian ground That if their sleeping riders should arise They could not witch them from the earth again And ride a printless course along the grass….

Originally published in the February 2006 issue of Civil War Times.

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Traveller and Robert E. Lee

Traveller: The Legendary Steed of General Robert E. Lee

In the annals of American history, few figures are as emblematic of the Civil War era as General Robert E. Lee. Commanding the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia, Lee became a symbol of the South’s fight during the tumultuous years of the Civil War. Known for his strategic acumen, personal integrity, and the deep loyalty he inspired among his troops, Lee’s leadership qualities are undisputed. Yet, amidst the battlefield strategies and historical debates, one constant companion of Lee’s journeys often goes unheralded — his trusted steed, Traveller.

Traveller was not just any horse; he was a remarkable animal whose resilience, strength, and calm demeanor under fire made him the ideal partner for General Lee. Purchased in 1861, Traveller and Lee’s bond was immediate and strong, enduring the hardships of war and becoming a lasting symbol of Confederate history. This magnificent gray American Saddlebred, initially named Jeff Davis, was rechristened by Lee, a change that marked the beginning of an extraordinary partnership. Traveller’s steadfast presence by Lee’s side through many battles highlighted not only the importance of cavalry in the Civil War but also the unique relationships formed between soldiers and their mounts.

As we delve into the history of Traveller, we uncover more than just the story of a horse. We find a narrative that intertwines with that of General Lee, offering insights into the personal dimensions of war, the deep bonds formed in the face of adversity, and the enduring legacy of these companions in the annals of American history. Traveller’s story is a testament to the role of animals in warfare and the unspoken heroes of our past, whose loyalty and service went beyond the call of duty.

Early Life of Traveller

Before he became the iconic companion of General Robert E. Lee, Traveller began his life in the serene landscapes of the Greenbrier County, Virginia (now West Virginia), in 1857. Initially bearing the name Jeff Davis, after the President of the Confederate States, this remarkable horse was destined for greatness from the start. Born into the esteemed lineage of the American Saddlebred, a breed renowned for its intelligence, speed, and agility, Traveller exemplified the finest qualities of his breed.

The American Saddlebred, known for its ability to perform a wide range of gaits, is a breed that combines strength with grace, making it highly sought after for both riding and show. Traveller, with his grey coat, strong build, and spirited yet gentle nature, was an exceptional representation of his breed. These characteristics were not only aesthetically pleasing but also immensely practical for the demanding roles required of a military horse.

Traveller’s early life on the farms of the Blue Ridge Mountains allowed him to develop the stamina and resilience needed to endure the rigors of war. His ability to cover long distances at a steady pace, coupled with his calmness under pressure, made him an ideal candidate for a high-ranking officer’s mount. It was these traits that caught the eye of General Lee during the Civil War when he was seeking a horse that could carry him safely and swiftly across the battlefields of America.

The qualities that defined Traveller—his endurance, reliability, and majestic presence—were not just beneficial for practical purposes. They also served to inspire those who fought alongside him and Lee. In a time of great turmoil and uncertainty, the sight of Traveller, steadfast and unyielding, offered a glimmer of stability and hope.

Meeting General Lee

The fateful encounter between General Robert E. Lee and the horse that would come to be known as Traveller took place in the spring of 1861, a momentous period marking the onset of the American Civil War. Lee, then in search of a steed that could match the demands of military leadership, found himself in the vicinity of the Greenbrier River in West Virginia. It was here, at the stables of Major Thomas L. Broun, that Lee first laid eyes on the grey colt that exuded an air of quiet confidence and unparalleled grace.

Initially named Jeff Davis, the horse caught Lee’s attention not just for his striking appearance but for his remarkable characteristics that seemed tailor-made for the trials of war. Traveller displayed an exceptional blend of strength, agility, and endurance, coupled with a calm demeanor that set him apart from the rest. His ability to stand still under gunfire and remain composed amidst the chaos of battle was particularly notable. These traits resonated deeply with Lee, who recognized the value of such steadiness in the tumultuous times ahead.

Major Broun recalled that Lee was drawn to the horse for his size, symmetry, and the vigor that was evident in his every movement. After a test ride that further confirmed Traveller’s suitability, Lee made the decision to purchase him for $200, a considerable sum at the time. From that point on, the grey colt became an integral part of Lee’s life, accompanying him as his faithful companion throughout the duration of the Civil War.

The choice of Traveller was influenced not only by his physical capabilities but also by his mental fortitude. Lee was known for his ability to remain composed under pressure, a trait that Traveller mirrored perfectly. This synergy between horse and rider was instrumental in forging a bond that would become legendary. Lee’s initial impressions of Traveller, marked by admiration for the horse’s serene strength and reliability, laid the foundation for a partnership that would endure the hardships of war and enter the annals of history.

Traveller in the Civil War

Throughout the American Civil War, Traveller distinguished himself as more than just a horse; he was a steadfast companion to General Robert E. Lee, sharing in the trials and tribulations of a nation divided. His role transcended that of a mere mode of transportation; Traveller was a symbol of resilience, carrying Lee into some of the most pivotal battles of the conflict.

From the muddy terrains of Antietam to the rolling hills of Gettysburg, Traveller’s hooves trod the varied landscapes of war-torn America. He was present at major engagements, including the Seven Days Battles, Second Bull Run, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and the enduring siege of Petersburg. In each of these campaigns, Traveller’s endurance and steadfast nature allowed Lee to lead from the front, often under hazardous conditions where the reliability of one’s mount could mean the difference between life and death.

The bond between Lee and Traveller grew stronger with each battle. It was common to see Lee riding Traveller to survey the battlefield, plan strategies, and lead his men. Traveller’s calmness under fire and unwavering loyalty made him an indispensable ally to Lee. This bond was not merely functional but deeply emotional; Lee was known to care for Traveller personally, seeing to his grooming and feeding, a task typically reserved for aides in military camps.

This companionship offered Lee solace and support amidst the chaos of war. Traveller’s consistent presence by Lee’s side became a comforting sight for the Confederate troops, symbolizing strength and steadfast leadership. The horse’s ability to remain composed, even in the din of battle, inspired soldiers and became a testament to the special relationship shared between man and beast during times of conflict.

The war years etched deep marks on both Lee and Traveller, witnessing not just the horrors of battle but also moments of humanity and grace. Their partnership, forged in the crucible of war, became emblematic of the enduring spirit of the Confederacy, reflecting the complexities and nuances of a nation struggling to define itself.

Post-War Years

As the American Civil War drew to a close, both the nation and its people embarked on a path toward healing and reconciliation. Among those navigating this new era were General Robert E. Lee and his faithful companion, Traveller. The war had ended, but their journey together was far from over. In the post-war years, Traveller’s life took a turn from the battlefields to becoming a symbol of peace and reconciliation, mirroring the journey of the Southern states back into the Union.

After the war, Lee assumed the role of president at Washington College in Lexington, Virginia (now Washington and Lee University), and Traveller accompanied him. There, Traveller became a well-known figure on campus and in the local community, often seen grazing on the college grounds or tied outside the chapel during services. His presence alongside Lee was a comforting reminder of resilience and survival, traits both had demonstrated time and again during the war.

Traveller’s fame extended beyond Lexington, as the public’s interest in him and Lee continued to grow. They were invited to attend numerous veterans’ gatherings, memorial dedications, and other post-war events, where Traveller was often paraded before adoring crowds. These appearances not only highlighted the deep affection between Lee and Traveller but also served as a powerful symbol of the South’s efforts to rebuild and move forward.

The relationship between Lee and Traveller played a nuanced role in post-war sentiment and reconciliation efforts. Their bond was seen as emblematic of the courage and dignity with which the South faced defeat. Lee, often revered for his decision to urge reconciliation and peace post-war, found in Traveller a living testament to these ideals. Together, they embodied the possibility of moving beyond the scars of conflict, towards a future of unity.

Traveller’s impact on post-war America was a testament to the enduring bond between him and Lee. It was a relationship that transcended the battlegrounds, offering a glimpse of compassion and mutual respect in a time of great division. Their legacy, symbolized by the faithful journeys they undertook together, served as a reminder of the profound connections that can exist between humans and animals, and the healing power such bonds can offer in times of national recovery.

Legacy and Memory

The tale of Traveller and General Robert E. Lee remains a poignant chapter in the annals of American history, transcending the confines of time to inspire generations. Traveller’s journey alongside Lee came to an end in 1871, when he succumbed to tetanus. The loss was deeply felt by Lee and all who had come to know and admire the steadfast steed. In a gesture of honor and remembrance, Traveller was buried near Lee Chapel on the campus of Washington and Lee University, a site that has since become a place of pilgrimage for those wishing to pay homage to both the general and his loyal companion.

Traveller’s legacy, however, extends far beyond his grave. He is immortalized in Southern culture and American history as a symbol of loyalty, resilience, and the profound bonds that can form between humans and animals. His story resonates not only with those who have a keen interest in the Civil War but also with animal lovers and anyone who appreciates the stories of courage and friendship that emerge in times of trial.

Throughout the South, statues, memorials, and other remembrances serve as lasting tributes to Traveller’s memory. Perhaps the most notable of these is the statue of Lee mounted on Traveller, which stands prominently in many locations, including the Virginia Military Institute. These monuments not only celebrate the historical significance of Lee and Traveller but also serve as a reminder of the enduring qualities they embodied.

Additionally, Traveller’s legacy is kept alive through literature, art, and folklore, where his story has been told and retold, capturing the imagination of countless individuals. From academic works to children’s books, the tale of Traveller and Lee continues to inspire and educate, highlighting the depth of their relationship and its impact on American history.

The memory of Traveller endures as a testament to the indelible mark he left on the hearts of those he encountered. More than just a horse, Traveller symbolizes the spirit of survival and hope in the face of adversity. His legacy is a reminder of the powerful connections between people and animals and the profound impact these relationships can have on our lives and our history.

The saga of General Robert E. Lee and Traveller transcends the mere annals of war to touch upon the universal themes of loyalty, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds that can form in the face of adversity. Their relationship, forged in the fires of the American Civil War, stands as a poignant reminder of the personal struggles and deep emotional connections that underpinned one of the most tumultuous periods in American history. Together, Lee and Traveller navigated the challenges of war, embodying the courage, dignity, and unwavering spirit of those they represented.

The story of Traveller offers a unique lens through which to view the Civil War era, shedding light on the personal dimensions of historical figures like Lee. Beyond the strategies and skirmishes, the politics and speeches, it is the human (and animal) stories that truly resonate, offering insights into the character and values of those who lived through these defining moments. Traveller’s unwavering presence at Lee’s side serves as a testament to the depth of their connection, illustrating how, even in the darkest of times, companionship and mutual respect can prevail.

In reflecting on the enduring legacy of Lee and Traveller, we are reminded of the complexity of history and the importance of looking beyond the surface to understand the multifaceted nature of those who have shaped our past. Their story is not just one of war but of partnership, highlighting the significance of loyalty and the profound impact of the relationships that help define our lives.

As we contemplate the legacy of Traveller and Lee, we recognize the power of their story to inspire and teach. It is a narrative that underscores the importance of empathy, the value of steadfastness, and the enduring strength of the bonds that can exist between man and beast. In remembering Traveller, we celebrate not only a remarkable horse but also the timeless lessons of love, loyalty, and resilience he represents.

Read here about another awe-inspiring horse Comanche, the lone survivor at little big horn

Call to Action

As we close the chapter on the remarkable journey of General Robert E. Lee and Traveller, we extend an invitation to you, our readers, to further explore the legacy of this iconic duo. Across the landscapes of America, numerous museums and historical sites stand as guardians of their story, offering a window into the past where the echoes of hooves and the whispers of history mingle. We encourage you to visit these sacred grounds, from the pastoral campus of Washington and Lee University, where Traveller rests, to the battlefields where he and Lee carved their names into the annals of time. Each site offers a unique perspective on their lives and the era they shaped, providing a tangible connection to the past.

But the story doesn’t end with Lee and Traveller. History is filled with tales of warhorses whose bravery, loyalty, and spirit have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who hear their stories. From the courageous Comanche, surviving the Battle of the Little Bighorn, to the steadfast Sergeant Reckless, who carried ammunition and hope during the Korean War, these equine heroes have played pivotal roles in our shared history.

We invite you to share your thoughts, reflections, and perhaps even stories of other legendary warhorses that have captured your imagination. How do you perceive their legacies? What can they teach us about courage, loyalty, and the unspoken bond between humans and animals? Your insights and stories are a valuable part of this ongoing dialogue, enriching our collective understanding of history and the enduring spirit of these remarkable animals.

Join us in celebrating the legacy of Traveller and the countless other warhorses whose stories remind us of the profound connections that can transcend the boundaries of time and conflict. Share your thoughts, visit these historical sites, and keep the memory of these noble companions alive for future generations to cherish.

Further resources

• National Park Service (NPS): The NPS offers comprehensive guides and historical insights into many Civil War battlefields and historical sites. Readers can explore the settings where General Lee and Traveller made history. https://www.nps.gov/civilwar/index.htm
• The American Civil War Museum: With collections and exhibitions that delve into the Civil War from multiple perspectives, the museum provides a wealth of information on the era, including the roles of key figures and their companions. https://acwm.org/
• Washington and Lee University: The university’s Lee Chapel & Museum not only serves as the final resting place of Lee but also houses exhibits on Lee’s life and legacy, including Traveller. https://www.wlu.edu/lee-chapel-and-museum
• The Virginia Museum of the Civil War: This museum provides insights into Virginia’s role in the Civil War, including stories of notable figures like General Lee and Traveller. https://www.vmi.edu/museums-and-archives/virginia-museum-of-the-civil-war/
• Civil War Trust: A treasure trove of Civil War history, offering detailed articles, maps, and more on battles, people, and the roles of horses in the war. https://www.battlefields.org/learn
• Books: For those interested in a deeper dive, books such as “Traveller” by Richard Adams and “Lee’s War Horse: The Life and Career of General Robert E. Lee’s Horse, Traveller” by Philip Van Doren Stern offer detailed accounts of Traveller’s life alongside General Lee.
• Local Libraries and Archives: Encourage readers to explore local libraries and state archives for primary sources, letters, and documents related to General Lee, Traveller, and the Civil War. Many libraries offer digital collections as well.

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Last Updated on July 15, 2023

Washington and Lee University is giving new meaning to the term “beating a dead horse” after desecrating the grave of Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s trusted war horse, Traveller, as part of an effort to erase both the horse and the General from the liberal arts school that’s named in Lee’s honor.

Washington and Lee University ripped up the grave marker of General Robert E. Lee’s horse, Traveller, and removed a plaque from the stable where Traveller lived out his post-war life until his death in 1871, in the latest cultural Marxist attack on Virginia’s history.

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Over the years, visitors to Traveller’s resting place have been known to leave pennies laying heads down on the horse’s grave marker as a slight to the man depicted on the penny, Yankee President Abraham Lincoln. With the pennies laying heads down, Lincoln will “always be staring at Traveller’s ass,” even in the afterlife, fans of the tradition say.

Fortunately, the school does not appear to be planning to dig up the remains of Traveller and had a new headstone lacking any historical context or description of who Traveller was placed in the footprint of the old one on Saturday.

The installation of a new headstone for Traveller is in contrast to what the local government of Richmond, Virginia did to the gravesite of Confederate General AP Hill, whose Richmond statue also served as his final resting place – until the left got a hold of it, ripping down the statue and digging up his grave, that is.

Read More: BLM Mayor of Richmond, VA DIGS UP REMAINS of Confederate General AP Hill

Even if the school is planning to dig up Traveller’s remains, it appears unlikely that any announcement will be made beforehand.

According to a Washington and Lee student newspaper called The W&L Spectator , the school made no announcement indicating that Traveller’s grave would be desecrated ahead of time and declined to inform the newspaper of any plans regarding Traveller’s grave when asked if any existed just weeks ahead of the desecration.

As previously mentioned, Washington and Lee University is partly named for Confederate General Robert E. Lee.

Lee, a native Virginian, served as the university’s president from just after the end of the Civil War in 1865 to his death in 1870. Then, the school was named just for George Washington and known as Washington College, not becoming known as Washington and Lee until after Lee’s death.

The attack on America’s history at Washington and Lee that claimed the grave of Traveller also included the pulling down of plaques commemorating General Lee’s time as president of the school.

Much like Traveller, Washington and Lee is the General’s final resting place, as well as the resting place of several members of the Lee family, in an area known as the Lee Family Crypt.

In recent years, left-wing professors (some of whom tried and failed to have the name Lee stricken from the school after the death of career criminal George Floyd) have pushed for the Lee family’s remains to be removed from the property.

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Traveller’s Grave

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Has cancel culture really come for a horse?

Plaques commemorating traveller, the beloved companion of robert e. lee, have been removed from a virginia university.

By Jennifer Graham

According to a student publication at Washington and Lee University in Virginia, cancel culture has come for a horse: Traveller, the gray Saddlebred that was a favorite mount of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee .

Citing confidential sources, the W&L Spectator last month published photographs and a video that the student journalists said showed the removal of plaques honoring the horse. One was at Traveller’s grave.

Another plaque, which was on a brick building that was formerly a stable, said: “The last home of Traveller. Through war and peace the faithful, devoted and beloved horse of General Robert Lee. Placed by the Virginia Division, United Daughters of the Confederacy.”

According to The W&L Spectator, “Every president since Robert E. Lee has lived in the house and used its stables as their garage. Campus tradition dictates that the doors to the stable must remain open for the ghost of Traveller to come and go at will.”

Traveller was euthanized in 1871 , a year after his owner’s death; the horse contracted equine tetanus from what was believed to be a rusty nail. For a time, his skeletal remains were on display, but they are now buried outside a university chapel and museum.

The marker at the gravesite once looked like this:

According to the student publication, the grave now only bears the name of the horse, and the years of his birth and death.

After a 24 hour blitz, university officials have removed and replaced Traveller’s headstone with a new one lacking historical context. Photo Credit: Anonymous pic.twitter.com/vFl6D5m54U — The W&L Spectator (@wluspectator) July 15, 2023

Of course, this isn’t really a case of “ cancel culture ,” in which there is an attempt to damage the reputation or livelihood of a person (or horse) because of something they said or did.

Evan Nierman, the author of “The Cancel Culture Curse,” defines cancellation as “the use of intimidation by a morally absolute coalition to isolate and disproportionately punish an alleged transgressor.” The attempted cancellation of the Budweiser Clydesdales earlier this year more aptly fits that bill.

The debate over how Traveller will be represented on the grounds of the university, if at all, is of a much more serious nature.

A university spokesman told the student journalists last month that the plaques were being relocated to a new permanent exhibit set to open this fall. Another said the campus was in the midst of “ongoing construction projects — including those in University Chapel.”

There is, of course, no way to separate the horse’s fame from that of his owner, who rode Traveller in multiple battles, and also rode him home after surrendering at Appomattox. And Lee, despite his post-war efforts to reunite the country, is persona non grata in much of America today.

In 2021, the university’s board voted to preserve its name despite calls from students and faculty to drop the “Lee.” The school is named for both George Washington and Lee, who was president of what was then called Washington College from 1865 to 1870.

Lee is buried underneath the chapel , near his beloved horse. The chapel was once named for Lee, but has since been renamed University Chapel, amid ongoing controversy over posthumous honors given leaders of the Confederacy.

Virginia has been at the center of numerous controversies, including the removal of Confederate monuments in Richmond, in a push that began after the murder of nine African Americans at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015, and was renewed after the killing of George Floyd in 2020.

Writing on the Traveller controversy, George Washington University Law School professor Jonathan Turley said , “The preserving of such memorials allows for the public to see the full historical continuum, including the painful chapters in that history.”

But, he added, “It can never be forgotten that Lee fought for the South in a struggle against slavery. The stain of slavery in our history is indelible and painful for all of us. However, we can reflect that contextual history and preserve the history ... and spare the horse.”

Grave of Robert E Lee's Horse Desecrated, Woke University Breaks Plaque Away

Grave of Robert E. Lee's Horse Desecrated, Plaque to Beloved Traveller Removed

Washington and Lee University (W&L) recently struck another giant blow for racism with the removal of the memorials of one of the nation’s most racist animals — Traveller, the notorious horse ridden by none other than Robert E. Lee during the Civil War. It appears that wokeness now demands posthumous political correctness even from the deceased animal companions of historical figures. The Traveller plaque was a longstanding fixture on the Washin…

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Photograph of the Skeleton of Robert E. Lee's Horse, Traveller

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This collection consists of an original photograph of Traveller's skeleton on display.

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The materials from Washington and Lee University Special Collections are made available for use in research, teaching, and private study, pursuant to U.S. Copyright law. The user assumes full responsibility for any use of the materials, including but not limited to, infringement of copyright and publication rights of reproduced materials. Any materials used should be fully credited with the source. Permission for publication of this material, in part or in full, must be secured with the Head of Special Collections.

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Preferred citation: Photograph of the Skeleton of Robert E. Lee's Horse, Traveller, WLU Coll. PP0014, Special Collections and Archives, James G. Leyburn Library, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA In some cases the citation format may vary. Please contact Special Collections' staff to verify the appropriate format. https://archivesspace.wlu.edu/repositories/5/resources/720 Accessed June 18, 2024.

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Traveller, the horse which served Confederate General Robert E. Lee, has long been a fixture of campus culture at Washington and Lee University, as the famous steed, known for his courage and stamina, is buried on campus.

But Traveller’s Confederate connections recently led university officials to remove two markers erected in his honor, his gravestone as well as a plaque honoring the beloved companion.

The decision prompted anger and concern from some alumni and students. Traveller served Lee both during the Civil War and afterwards, when the ex-general became president of the then-Washington College. Lee was president from 1865 until his death in 1871. Traveller died a few months later.

The university replaced one marker – Traveller’s gravestone – with a version omitting the original references to Lee and the United Daughters of the Confederacy.

In a July 16 response to community concerns, university officials said they would also replace the plaque they stripped from a campus building, which had noted Traveller’s last home and was a visible part of the campus environment.

As of Aug. 7, the plaque has yet to be replaced.

The original marker stated: “The last home of Traveller. Through war and peace the faithful, devoted and beloved horse of General Robert Lee. Placed by the Virginia Division, United Daughters of the Confederacy.”

The modifications follow a June 2021 decision by the small, private liberal arts college to retain its name while further distancing itself from the Confederacy.

“We have reviewed campus symbols, names and practices, and we are making changes to remove doubt about our separation from the Confederacy and the Lost Cause,” the university’s board of trustees stated .

But the horse is a campus icon.

“People like to hear tales about animals because they do no wrong. That is how Traveller has been immortalized in campus history,” Spivey said. “He was a faithful horse whose beauty and loyalty Robert E. Lee said would inspire poets. Until this month, very few people seemed bothered by the horse.”

One campus tradition is to place apples and pennies beside Traveller’s gravestone.

The apples are “because horses like apples,” Spivey said, and the “pennies are sort of a shot at Lincoln and the Union, placing the coin tails-up so that Lincoln is essentially kissing the grave of a horse.”

Now, Spivey said, Traveller is primarily known as the name of the university’s party bus: the Traveller Safe Ride Program (colloquially “Trav”) provides students with transportation on party nights.

News of the changes was first reported by the alternate campus newspaper, the W&L Spectator , on July 12, igniting passions on social media. Comments on the Spectator’s content were generally critical of the university’s choices.

Ultimately, the university released a statement after receiving “a number of questions about the decision to relocate four historical plaques.”

W&L also removed two plaques from an academic building. One marked where Lee was sworn in as the school’s president, and the other denoted the room which served as his first office space while president.

The university said the four original plaques would be featured in a new exhibit titled “The Power of Memory: Remembering Robert E. Lee.”

The changes are “part of a carefully considered series of steps to create educational exhibits and place Confederate artifacts in those exhibits and in context,” the university said in its statement.

“Washington and Lee University is an educational institution. Its campus is neither a museum nor an appropriate repository for Confederate artifacts, and as such, the Board determined that a number of plaques on campus should be relocated to a museum to be appropriately interpreted,” it added.

In an email to The Fix , university spokesperson Drewry Sackett said the decision to relocate the plaques was made over a year ago.

But Spivey said the new developments are “yet another of the university administration’s attempt[s] to completely ignore the civil war and Robert E. Lee.”

“Due to a misappreciation of Lee’s contributions and positive legacy as an educator, university officials think any reference to the man is detracting from student enrollment. Rather than confront the issue directly, they are trying to secretly hide their history from the world,” he said.

“[T]he university should keep the original markers,” Spivey continued. “If the goal is to contextualize a historic site, there is no better place than the original location they were erected.”

MORE: Review The College Fix’s Campus Cancel Culture Database

IMAGE: Main photo by Kamron Spivey/ W &L Spectator

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Conservatives Are Mad That Robert E. Lee’s Dead Horse Has Been Canceled

The horse had been dead and forgotten for more than 150 years—until now.

Brooke Leigh Howard

Race and Identity Reporter

Andrew Lichtenstein/Getty

Far-right critics have railed against Washington and Lee University for submitting to “cancel culture” after the school removed plaques commemorating a Confederate-era horse that’s been dead and long-forgotten for over 150 years.

The horse’s legacy had been so insignificant that even conservatives admitted it wasn’t a “major” historical figure.

University officials removed two markers dedicated to the memory of Robert E. Lee’s horse, Traveller, in July, The College Fix reported. Lee was Traveller’s saddled companion during and after the Civil War, and the horse died a few months after Lee’s death in 1871.

According to a July press release from Washington and Lee, the first plaque was on a stable, which was said to be Traveller’s last home. The other marker was a gravestone for the horse which was buried near the University Chapel , also the burial site for Lee and a national landmark. (Both markers dedicated to Traveller were donated by the United Daughters of the Confederacy.) Two other plaques that commemorated where Lee took the university’s presidential oath of office and where his office was located were also removed.

“Over the past several years, Washington and Lee’s Board of Trustees has engaged in a careful review of the University’s symbols, names, and practices with the understanding that these communicate the University’s values and are an important component of its reputation,” the school said in a statement, iterating its rejection of Confederacy ideology. “Washington and Lee University is an educational institution. Its campus is neither a museum nor an appropriate repository for Confederate artifacts, and as such, the Board determined that a number of plaques on campus should be relocated to a museum to be appropriately interpreted.”

Following the removal, university officials said the markers would be relocated to an exhibit about Lee and new ones would take their previous positions.

However, as of August, conservatives, seemingly hell-bent on preserving Confederate equine history, claimed that neither of Traveller’s plaques had been replaced.

“It appears that Washington and Lee University is not only canceling Lee but even his horse,” George Washington University Law professor Jonathan Turley fumed on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. “Traveler [sic] was originally put down for untreatable tetanus but will now be put down again by equally untreatable cancel culture.”

Turley admitted that Traveller was not a “major historical feature,” but claimed the horse was an “iconic symbol in the [Civil War].”

“These sites can offer a sense of authenticity and continuity to history. Universities should not just preserve as much of this history as possible, but to place that history in context. We can contextualize that history ... and still spare the horse,” he wrote.

Others chimed in, echoing similar bouts of revisionist history.

“And the horse you rode in on,” Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz wrote in solidarity.

“Washington & Lee University has cancelled Robert E Lee’s horse,” a social media user tweeted. “Because we’re that fucking delicate and infantile.”

“They’re literally erasing everything about America,” another social media user posted. “These ppl are mutants. They do not deserve to live in a country where ancestors died for their betrayal.”

Meanwhile, others had more historically accurate rebuttals and praised the school, which still happens to be named after a Confederate leader.

“Traveller was not honored for any reason other than the myth behind the guy who sat on his back, Robert E. Lee, who viewed the horse as his property no different than the Black persons he fought to keep [enslaved],” wrote Georgia State University law professor Anthony Michael Kreis .

“Canceling the traitors who rebelled against the Republic is honoring those who founded it,” wrote national security analyst Shay Khatiri . “Canceling Lee is honoring Washington. The two should have never coexisted—and could not forever. One must have been dropped, and gladly the traitor is the one gone.”

In a statement to The Daily Beast Wednesday, Washington and Lee University said that a marker for Traveller was immediately replaced at the gravesite, and another for the stable will be “installed in the fall.”

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Category : Traveller (horse)

Media in category "traveller (horse)".

The following 14 files are in this category, out of 14 total.

• Belongings of Robert Edward Lee
• Horses by named individual owners
• Uses of Wikidata Infobox

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Dixie Drudge – Southern Nation News

Traditional southern values and life behind the cotton curtain featuring southern news, border security, states rights, environmentalism, gun rights, preparedness, humor, free speech, southern heritage, history and activism., washington and lee university beating a dead horse. traveller’s grave desecrated.

(If you are so weak and insecure as to be “triggered” by the grave of a deceased animal, how can you realistically think you deserve your positions of pseudo-power in academia? When will alumni and donors stand up and take THEIR power back? – DD)

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Traveller plaque on stables removed, grave marker to be replaced

University officials remove several more plaques without announcement

(W&L Spectator) – Tourists, visitors, and students will no longer be greeted by a plaque commemorating the last home of Traveller, the horse which served Robert E. Lee during and after the Civil War. The plaque, formerly affixed to the Washington Street wall of the Lee House stable, was removed over the weekend. Pointing out the stable’s significance, it had been an established part of the campus milieu for nearly 100 years.

University officials took down two other plaques across campus over the weekend, with plans to take down another.

The second and third plaque denoted two rooms in Payne Hall: one where President Robert E. Lee took his oath of office in 1865, and the other where his office was from 1865-68, before moving to the newly-constructed chapel.

The final plaque, placed over Traveller’s gravesite outside Lee Chapel, National Historic Landmark, is expected to be removed soon, according to Drewry Sackett, executive director of communications. (They Have Already Chiseled It Up! – DD) …

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