This is the high ground on the southern portion of the battlefield, looking east. In the distant mid-ground, Branch Avenue can be made out, and beyond that is a line of trees that mark the eastern edge of Otto's plowed field. Across all these obstacles the Union IX corps came, driving the Confederates all the way, until the Union line reached this vicinity. This is the Union's 'High Water Mark' at Antietam; the spires of Sharpsburg would be visible to the north. After winning this last ridge, the Federals stopped to 'Hurrah' their success, but failed to deliver the fatal blow. The incomplete victory quickly unraveled. After occupying this ground for a short while, the entire Union line was forced to retire as the Union left flank collapsed under A.P. Hill's counter offensive. All the ground visible in this picture, won at such a high price, had to be given up as the Federals retreated back to the high bluffs along the western edge side of the Antietam.

By the time the Union line was pushed back to the Antietam, full darkness had just about set in. The Federals were determined not to be forced back across the Antietam; the Confederates were content to take up a strong position along the ridge overlooking Otto's plowed field.

With nightfall, the Battle of Antietam was over.