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The 15th Alabama was organized by James Cantey, a planter originally from South Carolina. Cantey's company was joined by ten other militia companies, all of which were sworn into state service by governor Andrew B. Moore on July 3, 1861, with Cantey as Regimental Commander.
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Companies "A" and "B" of the 15th Alabama were equipped with the M1841 Mississippi Rifle, a .54 caliber percussion rifle that had seen extensive service in the Mexican-American War and was highly recommended for its accuracy and easy use. The other companies in the regiment were given older "George Law" smoothbore muskets, which were converted from flintlocks to percussion rifles. Later, the regiment received British Pattern 1853 Enfield rifle-muskets and Springfield Model 1861 rifled muskets.
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Following the victorious conclusion of Jackson's Valley Campaign, the 15th accompanied its commander in his attack on Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan's flank during the Seven Days Battles. During this time, the 15th fought in the following sorties
Battle of Gaines' Mill on June 27–28, 1862; 34 killed and 110 wounded, out of 412 engaged.
Battle of Malvern Hill on July 1, 1862; negligible losses -
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Next up was Lee's Maryland Campaign, where the 15th Alabama saw action at:
Battle of Harper's Ferry from September 12–15, 1862; negligible losses.
Battle of Antietam (called "Sharpsburg") on September 17, 1862; 9 killed and 75 wounded, out of 300 engaged.
Battle of Shepherdstown on September 19, 1862; The losses were not given. -
Following the Confederate defeat at Antietam, the 15th Alabama participated with Jackson's corps at the Battle of Fredericksburg on December 15, 1862. Total casualties there were 1 killed and 34 wounded. The regiment was given detached duty at Suffolk, Virginia during May 1863, where it lost 4 killed and 18 wounded.
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During the Second Day of the Battle (July 2, 1863) Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee attempted to capitalize on his first day's success. He launched the Army of Northern Virginia in multiple attacks on the flanks of the Union Army of the Potomac, commanded by Maj. Gen. George G. Meade.
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Lee wanted the high ground Gettysburg, which dominated the town, Union supply, and road to Washington, D.C. He wanted a morning assault by Longstreet, and Ewell, who would move his Corps to join Longstreet. Ewell protested claiming his men would be upset if forced to move. Longstreet protested that his men wernt ready. Lee compromised, Ewell would stay and attack against Culp's Hill, pinning down the right flank, left flank would remain weak, where Longstreet would launch the attacks when ready
