Illustrated with previously unpublished photos, letters, documents, and diary entries, the untold story of the Chesapeake Artillery comes to light. Comprised chiefly of men who lived near the shores of its namesake bay, the Chesapeake Artillery was the last Confederate battery organized from the state of Maryland. It was also by far the smallest, with barely more than half the average enrollment of other Maryland batteries in the Confederate army. Despite its size, the unit was frequently cited for its bravery and efficiency, including by Stonewall Jackson. This is the history of the unit, from its formation through all its battles with the Army of Northern Virginia until the surrender at Appomattox, where only 13 men remained. A unique statistical analysis of census and military records data highlights its characteristics. Included is a complete roster of all the men who served in the unit. In combining a solid, informative service history with an illuminating demographic/motivational analysis and arguably definitive roster, Rick Richter successfully brings together in Three Cheers for the Chesapeake! the three central elements of the modern Civil War unit study. Not only is this the first and only comprehensive history of the 4th Maryland Light Artillery, but it also ranks high among modern Confederate battery studies in general. --Civil War Books and Authors Rick Richter was raised in Maryland and received his BA and MA degrees from the University of Notre Dame. He has spoken on the battery for living history and battlefield preservation groups, and appeared on the Travel Channel’s “Mysteries of the National Parks.”