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2008 Issues of the Buck and Ball

BUCK AND BALL

MAY 2008

 Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day because it was a time set aside to honor the nation's Civil War dead by decorating their graves. It was first

widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic,

an organization of former sailors and soldiers. On May 5, 1868, Logan declared in General Order No. 11 that:

  The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during

the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but

posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.

During the first celebration of Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, after which 5,000 participants helped to decorate

the graves of the more than 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried in the cemetery.

This 1868 celebration was inspired by local observances of the day in several towns throughout America that had taken place in the three years since the Civil War. In

fact, several Northern and Southern cities claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day, including Columbus, Mississippi; Macon, Georgia; Richmond, Virginia;

Boalsburg, Pennsylvania; and Carbondale, Illinois.

In 1966, the federal government, under the direction of President Lyndon Johnson, declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day. They chose

Waterloo—which had first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—because the town had made Memorial Day an annual, community-wide event during which businesses

closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day,

 honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring

Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act,

P.L. 90 - 363, in 1971 to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays)In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday to be celebrated the last Monday

in May. (Veterans Day, a day set aside to honor all veterans, living and dead, is celebrated each year on November 11.)

Today, Memorial Day is celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery with a ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each grave. Also, it is customary for

the president or vice-president to give a speech honoring the contributions of the dead and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. About 5,000 people attend

the ceremony annually.

Several Southern states continue to set aside a special day for honoring the Confederate dead, which is usually called Confederate Memorial Day:

 To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which

asks that at 3:00 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from

whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to Taps."

President:                               Steve Buffat

                                                862-1772

sjbuffat@sbcglobal.net

Vice President:                       Jeff Patrick

                                                732-7308

                                                                       jeffrey_patrick@nps.gov

Treasurer:                              Jim Millikin             

889-1848                                                   

 Program Chairman:  Teresa Hernandez

987-7776

                                                   TKHernandez@gmail.com

Secretary:                               Chris Buffat   

                                                 cbuffat@sbcglobal.net                               

At Large Member:                Brett Smithson

                                                bsmithso@crowder.edu

Wilson’s Creek:                     Ted Hillmer                                                                 

T_John_Hillmer@nps.gov

Past President:                       Tom Debo

 debo@cofo.edu

The supporting Staff of the Civil War Round Table of the Ozarks:

Len Eagleburger……….Media

Bill Piston……………..Web Page

Jim Scaminaci ……….Fundraising

Gary Brimmer ………..Membership

Don Burkemper……….Book Chairman

Paul and Carol Stickley……………..Refreshments

Don Garrett…………...Buck and Ball Editor

Steve Buffat  …………………. Foundation Liaison

June 14-15 - Greenfield, Missouri – Hulston Mill Civil War Days 08’

Skirmishes for the control of the mill & cabins between the Union and Confederate forces. Near hwy. 160 between Everton & Greenfield. Starting at 9am each day.

Battles throughout the day. Civil War period lifestyle demonstrations. Civil War Period sutler (mercantile). Admission: $5.00 for adults, kids (k-12) free with an adult

admission. More information visit www.hulstonmillcivilwardays.com or call (417) 267-9204 or Brent & Becky Paschal weberebs@yahoo.com.

Kansas City, Missouri – Stand of Colors

A Civil War Re-enactment

Jerry Smith Park / 139^th & Holmes  Kansas City, Missouri / May 17-18, 2008

Contacts: Pat Paton, PPPR, 913-491-4000, or Debra Shultz, Chairperson, 816-808-9991 

UNION DIVISION CAVALRY, ARTILLERY BATTALIONS AND FIELD AND STAFF PERSONAL ISSUED GENERAL ORDERS TO FORM INTO AN ARMY

UNDER THE COMMAND OF THE 16^TH ARMY CORPS, ARMY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MISSOURI AND TO MUSTER IN “LET THE BATTLE(S) BEGIN”

 --- this phrase might well be the call to arms for several thousand members of Union Cavalry and Artillery divisions of Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois

who have been given orders to muster in Kansas City, Missouri for federal service in the field at the STAND OF COLORS Civil War re-enactment event, May 17^th and 18^th.  “The army shall begin in earnest training, drilling and military discipline pursuant to taking up arms and be organized into the historic 2^nd brigade of the 1^st Division of the 16^th Army Corps”. 

General Orders #2008-7 have been issued by the Commander of the First Federal Division of the State of Kansas (Union Forces).  The orders also state that STAND

OF COLORS at the 400-acre Jerry Smith Park at 139^th and Holmes “…be a historically accurate portrayal of a generic Army in the field consistent with the Missouri and

Kansas Campaigns of 1864”.  Muster orders for the Confederate military are expected shortly. 

Nearly 1500 Re-enactors are expected from all over the nation to take part in this spectacular 2-day Civil War event, with action all day, each day, the largest ever

presented in this area.  The 2-day event will include re-creation of the border battles of Missouri and Kansas in 1864, several scripted battle events, artillery demonstrations, a Ladies Tea, music concerts, seminars, Civil War historical displays and a Grand Ball.   

STAND OF COLORS is a look back at history, when the north fought the south; many historians say that the battles fought in this area have great historical

significance and were the actual turning point in the Civil War.  If you have interest in history, the civil war or local area history (around 1864) then this is a must

attend event, geared to entertain the entire family … tour the camp sites, talk with both Union and Confederate soldiers, see spectacular battle events plus demonstrations

of Civil War cooking, medicine, dress and more.   

Advance tickets are available at all Price Chopper stores: $15.00 each for adults, children 5-10 years old $5.00.  Tickets at the pageant will be available only at the parking

area at Bannister Mall, 95^th and I-435, $20.00 for adults, children 5-10 years old $10.00.  No tickets will be available or sold at the event site and there is no parking

available at the site.  Ticket prices include daily admission, parking and shuttle service to and from the pageant site.  Food and beverages, displays and restrooms are at

the pageant site.   

This unique STAND OF COLORS Civil War re-enactment is sponsored by the Kansas City’s Downtown Rotary Club #13 as a benefit for their local camp for

 special-needs youth. 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

“Arts in the Park”

Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield

Saturday, May 10, 7:00 pm

"Timberline," the "official Bluegrass band" of Shell Knob, Missouri, will perform from 7-8 p.m. on the front lawn of the Visitor Center. 

Saturday, May 17, 7:00 pm

The Missouri State University Community Band, a 45-member volunteer band, will perform from 7-8 p.m. on the front lawn of the Visitor Center.

May 26, 2008  Summer hours for the battlefield`s Tour Road begin (8 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week).

Saturday, June 7, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

The "Ray House Jamboree," a bluegrass music festival on the lawn in front of the historic Ray House (Tour Stop Number 2) featuring several local groups performing

traditional Ozark music. As a special treat the historic Ray House will be open and guided tours will be provided by park volunteers.  Normal entrance fee only.

No additional fee for this event.

The 135th Army Band (USAR), consisting of 30 members of the U.S. Army Reserve, will present a concert from 7-8 p.m. on the front lawn of the Visitor Center.

All events are free and open to the public except the entrance fee for the Ray House Event on June 7th.

 Please bring blankets and/or lawn chairs for all performances.

 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Newtonia Battlefield Bill Heads to President Bush

By Derek Spellman

4/30/2008

Joplin Globe (MO)

http://www.joplinglobe.com/local/local_story_121221824.html

NEWTONIA, Mo. — A bill that aims to determine the best way to preserve the Newtonia Civil War battlefields is headed to President Bush after securing final

congressional approval Wednesday.

     The bill, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Roy Blunt, authorizes the National Park Service to conduct a study to determine if the Newtonia sites could be made a separate

unit of the park service or brought under the management of Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield near Springfield. The bill was a piece of larger legislation that passed

the House on Wednesday by a margin of 291-117. It passed in the Senate several weeks ago.

 Kay Hively, a founding member of the Newtonia Battlefields Protection Association, called the bill’s passage “wonderful news.” She did note that the bill authorizes

the study but does not necessarily provide the funding for it. Officials from the National Park Service previously estimated that such a study would cost $250,000 to

$300,000.

 The Battlefields Protection Association has not taken an official position on whether the Newtonia site should be its own independent unit or part of Wilson’s Creek,

Hively said. She personally thinks the latter would be the better option, at least for the time being.

 “I think that would be a great way to go, myself,” she said.

 Being part of Wilson’s Creek would provide access to historians, maintenance crews and biologists to help with preservation efforts, but it wouldn’t preclude future

designation as a separate unit in the park system.

 Hively said many forget that Wilson’s Creek started out as a unit of George Washington Carver National Monument in Diamond before it became independent.

 For more than a decade, the Newtonia Battlefields Protection Association has led efforts to preserve the battlefields. Those efforts included purchasing 11 acres and

the two-story Ritchey Mansion, which served as a headquarters and a field hospital during both battles at Newtonia.

 Back into history The first battle at Newtonia in 1862 saw American Indian units fight on both sides. The 1864 battle was one of the last ones fought in Missouri. About

350 soldiers were killed or wounded in 1862, and 650 casualties were reported in the 1864 battle.

 ########################################################################

From the President:

     Hello everyone.  It was a pleasure to meet with everyone during our April meeting.  I realize with the meeting dates changing, it complicated matters…I’m sorry about

that.  For those that were able to attend, we were treated with two fabulous, out of town speakers that were in Springfield for the Civil War Presentation Trust Conference;

Edwin C. Bearss and David Hinze.  Ed Bearss is the retired Chief Historian of the National Park Service and he spoke on “Personalities of the Trans-Mississippi”.  

David Hinze is a noted Civil War lecturer, author and tour guide, spoke on the two brothers that were recipients of the American Medal of Honor at Pea Ridge and Prairie

Grove, Arkansas.  They were both excellent talks and a treat for us all.  Thanks Ed and Dave for taking time out to share your evening with us!

 Just a reminder, on May 10 we are planning a trip to the Confederate Memorial in Higginsville and to Lexington, Missouri.  We will be carpooling as a group like we’ve

done in the past.  We’ll meet in the Wal-Mart parking lot at Kansas and I-44 at 7:00 am.  With the gas prices the way they are, we ask that you help out by giving the driver

at least $10.     

 Remember to put September 19-21 on your calendars.  We are still planning a trip to Shiloh, TN and Corinth, MS.  The CWRT of Western Missouri continues to show

interest in going on the trip with us.  The trip will be very interesting and educational…it should be a lot of fun.  David Hinze will be our tour guide.  There will be more

details to share with you soon.  

 Over the last several months, I’ve mentioned numerous times in our meetings and in the Buck & Ball of a Civil War Elderhostel program that Ozark Adventures, Inc.

(OAI) of Branson has ask us to assist.  It’s been on and off for several months.  I’m happy to report that the program is officially on.  The program will be held June 8 – 13. 

OAI asked that the Round Table provide the program and the speakers.  In return, our organization will be compensated for our time.  The program has now been

 finalized and has been sent to OAI.  Jeff and I are contacting individuals to speak during the week for the many sessions.  The participants will be visiting our June

meeting. 

 I will not be at the May meeting.  I will be out of town to a conference.  Jeff, our Vice President will be conducting.  I look forward to seeing each of you in June. 

 Steve Buffat

President

CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE OF THE OZARKS

P.O. BOX 3451

SPRINGFIELD, MO 65808-3451

BUCK AND BALL

April 2008

In Tribute

As you know, we lost a very dear friend and lifetime member of the Civil War Round Table on March 22, 2008, Louise Marie Carlstrom.  Louise was always so excited to be with us each month…she enjoyed coming and participating.  We will certainly miss her.  Our sympathy goes out to her family, especially her daughter and Round Table member, Carol Petty. 

Steve Buffat, President

President:                               Steve Buffat

                                                862-1772

sjbuffat@sbcglobal.net

Vice President:                      Jeff Patrick

                                                732-7308

                                                                       jeffrey_patrick@nps.gov

Treasurer:                              Jim Millikin             

889-1848                                                   

 Program Chairman:            Teresa Hernandez

987-7776

                                                   TKHernandez@gmail.com

Secretary:                               Chris Buffat   

                                                 cbuffat@sbcglobal.net                               

At Large Member:                Brett Smithson

                                                bsmithso@crowder.edu

Wilson’s Creek:                     Ted Hillmer                                                                  

T_John_Hillmer@nps.gov

Past President:                       Tom Debo

 debo@cofo.edu

Civil War Round Table of the Ozarks

Minutes for the meeting of March 12th, 2008

Opportunity Drawings-

:: Exile

-Richard S. Wheeler

:: Jefferson Davis, Confederate President

-Herman Hattaway and Richard E. Beringer

:: Insignia DVD Player and Civil War Tie

            -Donated by Best Buy and Dan Cunningham from Renee Wells

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Minutes-

Vice President, Jeff Patrick, brought the meeting to order at 6:38 PM.  Approximately 67 people were present at the night’s meeting.  Jeff was filling in for Steve Buffat (President) during his absence.  He started by showing that the minutes were published in the Buck and Ball.  A motion was made that the minutes be approved as published in the B&B.  They were approved by membership.

Treasurer, Jim Milliken, read the Treasurer’s Report showing a balance of $4122.41 as of March 12^th, 2008.

Wilson’s Creek Battlefield Superintendent, Ted Hillmer, gave an update on the battlefield.  The Civil War Preservation Trust Conference will be having tours at the battlefield to go along with the conference.  He also offered a map of closed and opened trails of the park to the membership.  Then he asked for volunteers from the membership and that any help would be greatly appreciated.  He also addressed that for new and returning volunteers, there is an orientation meeting to be held on the next Saturday.  He then thanked Don Garrett and Len Eagleburger for their hard effort and work.  He then made a proposition to the membership:  The battlefield plans on buying a new piece of land and he was asking for a donation from the Round Table to cover the closing costs of the easement purchase.

Jeff Patrick then reminded the membership that the yearly dues need to be paid now or their names will be removed from the membership roster.  He also informed the membership on staffing changes; Jim Scaminaci is now the Fundraiser Chairman while Bill Piston is now Group Historian.  The CWRT is looking for someone to graciously take over the refreshments.  Then he said that the summer Elderhostel program is very much in jeopardy and that any further actions on our part are on hold.  Trips are being planned for September 19^th - 21^st to Shiloh where we would have a tour given by Dave Heinz.  Another trip is being planned for May 10^th to the Confederate Memorial in Higginsville and Lexington.  He also said that the Civil War Round Table of Western Missouri is planning a trip to Wilson’s Creek and wanted to know if members of our group would like to join them.  He also said that the CWRT is currently working on obtaining our 501(c) (3) tax exemption status.

Bill Piston then presented the book Exile and Jefferson Davis, Confederate President for the opportunity drawing this evening.

Jim Scaminaci also presented an Insignia DVD player and a Civil War tie of a famous painting.

The announcement was made that reenactors are being sought after for a mail delivery reenactment.

Ralph Thaemlitz made a motion that we donate $1000.00 to Ted Hilmer’s proposition.  The motion was put on hold for consideration and will be discussed at next executive board meeting.

A motion was also made that Ted Hillmer provide an exact amount of the closing cost.  The motion was seconded and approved.  The motion passed.

Another motion was made by Ralph Thaemlitz that when dues are needed to be paid, that post cards are to be sent as reminders to the members who have not paid their yearly dues.  The motion was seconded and approved.  The motion passed.

            -----Break-----

Bill Piston then introduced the night’s presentation, the film: The Battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse.  Following the movie, Bill answered many questions from the membership and commented on the presentation.

Tickets were then drawn for the opportunity drawings and Daisy Tolliver won the book Jefferson Davis, Confederate President, Ted Hillmer won the book Exile.  The DVD player was won by Ann Harkreader, and Paul Hood won the Civil War Tie.

Meeting Adjourned at 8:31 P.M.

Christopher D. Buffat

Secretary

EVENTS

Civil War Preservation Trust

Annual Conference April 16-20, 2008

War in the Ozarks: Trans-Mississippi and Missouri

The full package is $500 instead of the $535. Below are rates broken down by day if someone wanted to attend just for one day. Please have them mention the code CD08. Your members can call 800-298-7878, ext. 229 and register with Kelly Zifka.

Pricing for Annual Conference 2008 for Locals

These rates are offered to anyone living in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma

Spouse Package (Breakfasts Thursday-Sunday, Thursday Luncheon and Panels, Friday Reception and Saturday Reception and Awards Banquet: $250)

Day Rates:

Thursday Luncheon and Panels: $75

Full-Day Thursday (Breakfast, Luncheon Panels): $95

Full-Day Friday (Breakfast, Tour, Lunch) $150

Full-Day Friday and Reception $175

Friday Reception Only $25

Full-Day Saturday (Breakfast, Tour, Lunch) $150

Full-Day Saturday with Reception and Awards Banquet $225

Saturday banquet only: $75

 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Library Station - Tracing Your Civil War Ancestor.
7:00 pm in the Frisco room.
Learn the basics of researching a Civil War soldier's military service and explore your Civil War heritage.
Call 865-1340.

Friends
of Wilderness Battlefield

invites you to join us in a commemoration of the

Battle of the Wilderness

on the occasion of its

144th Anniversary in 2008.

May 9 – 11:  A Civil War Conference:

“Politics and Personalities:
The Wilderness Campaign, 1864”

May 10: The Annual Dinner and Auction

May 11: Special Activities at Ellwood

 FoWB will commemorate the 144^th Anniversary of the Battle of the Wilderness on the weekend of May 9-11, 2008.  Highlights of the weekend will be the 6th annual Dinner & Auction on Saturday and a Civil War conference (Fri. May 9-Sun. May 11). Guest speakers include Chief Justice Frank Williams, Dr. John Simon, Gordon Rhea, Clark Hall and Greg Mertz.  Visit www.fowb.org for complete event details, including a flier describing the weekends activities.

May 3-4 - North of Piggott, Arkansas - 145th Anniversary of the Battle of Chalk Bluff - Come to Clay County, Arkansas and see the beautiful Chalk Bluff Battlefield State Park (10 miles north of Piggott, Arkansas on Arkansas Highway 62) (Mapquest of location: http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp? latlongtype=decimal&latitude=36.472004&longitude=-90.1614869 for our Civil War Weekend and participate in the "Battle of Chalk Bluff." The event will take place on the actual battle site, a rare event now days. Amenities include powder for artillery, cavalry, infantry, water, firewood, and, hay, and a meal on Saturday evening (for those who make contact with the event coordinators at least four days before the event). Scheduled events: Friday, May 2nd 4p to 6p - Sign in by Re-enactors & Living Historians. Saturday, May 3rd: 9 a - Open to the Public - Camp Life Demonstrations around Park; 9:30 a - Officer’s Call; 10:30 a - Talk on Confederate President Jefferson Davis by W. Danny Honnoll; 11 a - Cannon Demonstrations; Noon - Ladies Tea & Demonstrations of Refugee Camp; 12:30 p - Marching & Rifle Firing Demonstrations; 2 p - Re-enactment Followed by Grand Review Parade of Troops returning to Camp and 3:30 p - Ladies Demonstrations of Refugee Camp. Sunday May 4th; 10:00 a - Open to the Public - Officer’s Call; 10:30 a - Open to the Public; 11 a - Church Service by Murray Therrell; 1 p - Memorial Service Confederate President Jefferson Davis in this the year of Davis 2 p - Living History - Re-enactment and Followed by Grand review Parade of Troops returning to Camp. Through out the both days Living History Demonstrations by Ladies in Refuge.All branches of military and period impressions welcome. This event is hosted annually by Clay County, the North East Arkansas Civil War Heritage Trails Committee, the SCV Shaver Camp #1655, of Jonesboro and the Gen. James F. Fagan Chapter #280, Military Order Stars and Bars, of Jonesboro. Artillery welcome but must contact before setting up and has to be on site before 10 am day of event. No registration fees for reenactors, sutlers, or living historians! Walks on must to be at site and registered 2 hours before any listed event. Artillery Contact: W. Danny Honnoll phone 870-935-9830; email at danny@honnoll.com, Infantry Contact Capt John Malloy 7th Ark Inf CSA phone (870) 269-5573; email jjmalloy@mvtel.net or W. Danny Honnoll, Ark. Div. Chief of Staff SCV: phone 870-935-9830, email danny@honnoll.com.

 **********************************************************************

  May 16-18 – Kansas City, Missouri – Stand of Colors -

Rotary Club 13 of Kansas City presents a North South Alliance Sanctioned Event. A reenactment of the Missouri Kansas Campaigns of 1864. Stand of Colors will encompass 400 acres with scripted battles all weekend, plus continuous skirmishes starting on Friday. Park off-site nearby and take the free shuttle service. All branches, usual amenities. Great civilian participation. Static, campaign camps of choice. To learn more or register visit www.standofcolors.net or contact Col. Terry Crowder. E-mail: terry.crowder@standofcolors.net. Phone 314-388-0588

From the President:

I missed being there last month.  Due to work circumstances beyond my control, I was unable to attend the March meeting.  I understand that we had an excellent meeting with nearly 70 members in attendance.  The film, “The Battle of Spotsylvania”, and the discussion following the film lead by Dr. Piston were excellent.  Thanks to Dr. Piston for leading the discussion. 

The week of April 17-20, the Civil War Preservation Trust is holding their annual Conference in Springfield at the University Plaza Hotel.  In conjunction with the Conference, the suggestion was made to hold a special meeting on April 16 with Jim Lighthizer, the President of the Trust and Edwin C. Bearss, a premier battlefield historian, instead of our regularly planned meeting on the 9^th.  As of March 30, this meeting is not confirmed.  Connie Langum from Wilson’s Creek is helping us organize this meeting…she’s trying to contact the two of them now.  I can tell you that if we have this meeting, we will be at some other location other than the Library Center because the on the 16^th, the rooms are all booked.  I wish I could tell you more. As soon as we know for sure, we will get the word out to everyone.  Please watch your emails for an announcement this next week.   

On May 10, we are planning a trip to the Confederate Memorial in Higginsville and to Lexington.  We will be carpooling as a group like we’ve done in the past.  We’ll meet in the Wal-Mart parking lot near James River Expressway and Glenstone at ~7:00 am.  If you ride with someone, we ask that you help out by giving the driver at least $10 to help out on gas.   

Remember to put September 19-21 on your calendars.  We are still planning a trip to Shiloh, TN and Corinth, MS.  The CWRT of Western Missouri has showed interest in going on the trip with us.  The trip will be very interesting and educational…it should be a lot of fun.  There will be more details to share with you soon.   

Again, thank you for placing us among the organizations you honor by your membership; we’ll continue to do our best to earn your support. I look forward to seeing you in April.  

Steve Buffat, President

BUCK AND BALL

JANUARY 2008

Meeting the second Wednesday of each month.  Next meeting January 9, 2008, at the Library Center,  4653 S Campbell,  Springfield,  Mo at 6:30 PM   

Other Names: None

Location: Wright County

Campaign: Marmaduke’s First Expedition into Missouri (1862-63)

Date(s): January 9-11, 1863

Principal Commanders: Col. Samuel Merrill [US]; Brig. Gen. John S. Marmaduke [CS]

Forces Engaged: Detachment of infantry, cavalry, and artillery (approx. 700) [US]; 4th Division, I Corps, Trans-Mississippi Department [CS]

Estimated Casualties: 407 total (US 78; CS 329)

Description: John S. Marmaduke led a Confederate raid into Missouri in early January 1863. This movement was two-pronged. Col. Joseph C. Porter led one column, comprising his Missouri Cavalry Brigade, out of Pocahontas, Arkansas, to assault Union posts around Hartville, Missouri. When he neared Hartville, on January 9, he sent a detachment forward to reconnoiter. It succeeded in capturing the small garrison and occupying the town. The same day, Porter moved on toward Marshfield. On the 10th, some of Porter’s men raided other Union installations in the area before catching up with Marmaduke’s column east of Marshfield. Marmaduke had received reports of Union troops approaching to surround him and prepared for a confrontation. Col. Samuel Merrill, commander of the approaching Union column, arrived in Hartville, discovered that the garrison had already surrendered and set out after the Confederates. A few minutes later, fighting began. Marmaduke feared being cut off from his retreat route back to Arkansas so he pushed Merrill’s force back to Hartville, where it established a defense line. Here, a four-hour battle ensued in which the Confederates suffered many casualties but compelled the Yankees to retreat. Although they won the battle, the Confederates were forced to abandon the raid and return to friendly territory.