The Battle of Cane Hill, Arkansas
Battle of Cane Hill - Confederate Reports
Col. Jo Shelby, C.S.A.
Colonel "Fighting Jo" Shelby
commanded the first brigade of
Confederate cavalry encountered
by the Union attack. His men,
although outgunned and
outnumbered, fought a fierce
rear guard action making
repeated stands over miles of
hills, woods and farmland.
Colonel "Fighting Jo" Shelby
commanded the first brigade of
Confederate cavalry encountered
by the Union attack. His men,
although outgunned and
outnumbered, fought a fierce
rear guard action making
repeated stands over miles of
hills, woods and farmland.
 | |  | |  | |  |
(The following are from the Official Records, Series 1, Volume XXII.)
Headquarters Arkansas Cavalry Brigade
Camp near Dripping Springs, Ark.
November 29, 1862
Report of Col. Charles A. Carroll, C.S. Army, commanding Arkansas Cavalry Brigade
Captain: In compliance with General Orders, No. -, of even date, I have the honor to
make the following report of the conduct of the forces of my command in the
engagement of the 28th instant; but in justice to my command beg leave to state that,
having inspected the brigade on the 27th instant, I had only 200 effective men for duty
and 317 non-effective men. The non-effective men were composed of the sick and
men whose horses were in bad condition. Of the non-effective force, 60 men were on
duty as pickets, picketing the roads from our encampment to the Line road west of
us, and 100 men were detailed as escort for the trains of the division, which were
ordered to the rear on the 27th instant, leaving me 389 men to represent my brigade,
while the muster-rolls call for 1,700. With but few sick, the brigade is thus diminished
by the condition of the horses, which are worn down, having been constantly on the
move for six weeks, and for the want of forage and shoeing. Of the mountain howitzer
battery attached to my brigade, and commanded by First Lieutenant Hughey, only
one section was serviceable.
After being notified of the approach of the enemy, at 8 p.m. on the 27th instant, the
men were kept under arms and the horses saddled until the opening of the enemy’s
artillery north of us, in the direction of Colonel Shelby’s camp, on the morning of the
28th instant, at about 9 o’clock, when orders were received to move my command
rapidly to the front. After moving about 1 mile, I received orders to place the battery on
an eminence to the right, commanding the road leading north, with the two
regiments in line of battle perpendicular to the road, supporting the battery, my own
regiment on the right, under Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, and Colonel [J.C.] Monroe’
s regiment on the left of the road. The eminence occupied by my battery was
commanded by the heights north and northwest of us, from which points the artillery
of the enemy were firing; and although they had the range of my battery, they were at
too great a distance to be affected by our light metal. I was then ordered to the rear.
After moving 1 mile, I was directed to move rapidly to the rear and select some good
position. In a few minutes, however, further orders were received to continue moving
to the rear until otherwise ordered. Having moved half a mile beyond the summit of
the mountain on the Cane Hill and Cove Creek road, I received orders to halt and
occupy a position. I countermarched the command beyond the summit of the
mountain, and took position commanding the Cane Hill road, with the regiment
under Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson supporting the battery, and Colonel Monroe’s
regiment 200 yard to the right of Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson’s regiment. The fire of
the enemy’s artillery at this time was continuous and incessant on the rear of
Colonel Shelby’s command. I was ordered to throw out Colonel Monroe’s regiment
as skirmishers, but before the order could be obeyed I was ordered to move my
command to the rear, and soon thereafter ordered to take command of all the forces
in my advance, which separated me to some extent from my own brigade. Soon after
passing the pinnacle of the mountain, Colonel Monroe, who was marching in rear of
my regiment, received the enemy at short range, and retired, as previously directed.
Such was the nature of the ground from the top of the mountain to Cove Creek, a
distance of 1½ miles, that but few advantageous positions could be found. Just
before reaching Cove Creek, Captain Stanley’s company, of my regiment, was
ordered to an eminence commanding the road on which the enemy were to travel,
with orders to fire upon them with deliberation, and to retire immediately thereafter.
After reaching Cove Creek, Captains Gordon and Carroll, with their respective
companies, of my regiment, were directed to occupy an eminence on the right of the
road. The captains fired down upon the enemy and retired, as directed. From this
point on down Cove Creek, I selected suitable positions and placed detachments of
my regiment and Colonel Shelby’s brigade. At a point 2 miles below the junction of
the Cane Hill and Cove Creek roads, I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, with five
companies of my regiment and about 200 men of Colonel Thompson’s regiment,
Colonel Shelby’s brigade, to an eminence immediately over the road, with
instructions to let the enemy’s advance pass them before firing. Immediately in rear
of this point, Colonel Monroe formed with 86 men in the valley below. At this time the
enemy was pushing the rear with great energy, and made it necessary for the
companies left ambushed to receive them to retire very rapidly after firing. The
captains of my own command, who have reported to me, state that they obeyed
orders, receiving the enemy at close distance, the men behaving, almost without
exception, with great bravery. When the rear retired past the position occupied by
Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson and Colonel Thompson, they were followed very closely
by a detachment of the enemy’s cavalry, a much larger number halting just before
reaching the position above referred to. A lieutenant-colonel of the enemy’s force
was severely wounded by one of the volleys fired by the men of Lieutenant-Colonel
Johnson. At this time the confusion below the position above referred to of our
retiring men was disgraceful, and every effort made by officers to halt them futile, the
cry extending down the line that our friends had gorged the road and were being
sobered mercilessly by the enemy. Just then the roar of shot-guns from the
eminence occupied by Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson and Colonel [G.W.] Thompson
threw the enemy’s advance into confusion, when they were immediately charged by
Colonel Monroe, and after the third effort driven for the first time during the day, which
gave time for collecting and forming the scattered men, hitherto rapidly moving to the
rear. The enemy here concluded, notwithstanding the superior weight and quantity of
their artillery and their superior force, outnumbering ours more than ten to one, to risk
nothing against the positions of which we were availing ourselves, and at once
retired about sunset.
The conduct of the officers and men of my command throughout the entire day, and
almost without an exception, evidenced entire coolness and determined bravery, as
did the officers and men of Colonel Shelby’s brigade, of whom I assumed command
and placed in position. I would be glad to speak of them more particularly if my
personal acquaintance with these officers was such as to do so without a report
from them.
I will take occasion to remark that the retiring fight, lasting from 9 o’clock in the
morning until sunset, over a rugged and narrow road, with but a scanty supply of
ammunition, pursued by a greatly superior force, moving from position to position
with an astonishing rapidity, was well calculated to have confused, and, indeed,
demoralized men well drilled and disciplined, and it is, indeed, astonishing that
troops without drill should have evinced a nerve so steady, a courage so cool. In
moving the battery from the first position taken in the morning, the carriage of one of
the pieces was so badly broken as to render impossible to moving of it by horses.
Notwithstanding the gun thus dismantled was under a galling fire of the enemy’s
artillery, shells bursting by the minute around it, the cannoneers dismounted, and,
under the direction of their officers, bore the piece, crippled but triumphant, to the
rear. Just before reaching the second position taken by my brigade, as alluded to in
the above report, Captain Shoup, the commander, and Lieutenant Halliburton, of the
battery, met me. The captain at once took command of his company. There was now
but one serviceable gun of the four-gun battery, which was placed in position
frequently during the day with a skill and energy deserving a more substantial battery.
After passing some little distance beyond the top of the mountain, this gun was
placed in position and opened on the enemy. Notwithstanding the energy with which
it was handled, it was dismantled by the enemy’s artillery, the carriage being broken
to pieces by their heavy shot. This casualty was followed by a cavalry charge made
with great energy. The officers, unwilling to leave any trophy in the hands of their
country’s enemy, took the gun from the shattered carriage and bore this, too, to the
rear. I cannot but commend the pride and bravery of the men here evidenced.
The loss the brigade sustained is as follows: Colonel Monroe’s regiment, 3 men
slightly wounded, 4 horses killed and 1 wounded; Lieutenant-Colonel Johnston’s
regiment, 5 men were wounded and 2 men are missing; Captain Shoup’s battery, 3
men were wounded and 4 horses killed.
I am captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Chas. A. Carroll,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade
(Col. Charles A. Carroll to Capt. E.G. Williams, Asst. Adjt. Gen., 4th Div., 1st Corps,
Trans-Mississippi Army)
-----
Camp Dripping Springs, Ark.
December 1, 1862
Report of Col. Joseph O. Shelby, commanding Fourth Missouri Cavalry Brigade
Captain: Being called upon for a report of the action of this brigade in the Cane Hill
fight, I inclose the same, as follows:
My brigade consisted of the following regiments: First, commanded by [B.F.] Gordon;
Second, by [B.G.] Jeans; Third, by [G.W.] Thompson; also Elliott’s scouts and
Quantrill’s famous company, in command of First Lieutenant Gregg. Having had due
notice (eighteen hours previous) by the general commanding that the enemy were
advancing, we endeavored to be on the alert, but I must confess (thought it may
reflect somewhat upon myself) that the enemy, by his skillful management, fell upon
me sooner than I would have desired, considering that a portion of our division was
encamped some distance in my rear and I had but little time to give them the notice
required; yet I had sufficient time to place my men in their proper positions and await
the coming of the hated foe.
Between the hours of 9 and 10 a.m., Friday, November 28, he rapidly advanced and
unlimbered his guns, and sent his iron missiles in search of the “rebels.” We had
expected him (the enemy) to advance either on the Cincinnati or Fayetteville road, our
position covering both. Bledsoe, in command of the artillery, consisting of two iron 6-
pounders, had his guns so arranged as to cover each road; that is, one piece
bearing on the Cincinnati road and the other covering the Fayetteville road. Having
notice of the approach of the enemy on the Fayetteville road, I ordered all the
regiments to mount and form, knowing that their advance on that route gave them an
advantage over my position which could not be overlooked. If they forced a passage
down the main road, we would be cut off from assistance in the rear and be deprived
of the Cane Hill and Cove Creek road, thereby preventing our passage over the
mountain, the route our train had taken. The gun covering the Fayetteville road
occupied an elevated position, the hill descending to its foot about 300 yards. Here,
waiting for the enemy to advance, I took my position at the gun, which was so
masked as not to be seen by him. Thus waiting, and in no little suspense, he (the
enemy) soon showed himself with a four-gun battery, supported by infantry close up.
He opened rapidly, but the smoke of his guns had not cleared away before Bledsoe’
s gun responded, and continued to respond, showing to the naked eye that it was
sending death in every shot to our heartless invaders. I soon discovered that they
were not disposed to flank us on our right, and for the protection of our batteries I
ordered all the regiments to dismount, placing Gordon on our right, Jeans in the
center, and Thompson on our extreme left. By this time I had received satisfactory
information from the Cincinnati road, which convinced me that there was no move by
the enemy on that route, and I immediately ordered Captain Bledsoe to move the gun
that covered the Cincinnati road to a point which secured a cross-fire on the batteries
playing upon us. I should mention here that by this time they had at least twelve guns
bearing upon our positions, and then the artillery fight commenced in earnest,
lasting at this point about one hour and a half.
During this time Gordon, Jeans, and Thompson, lay close up to the guns, anxiously
awaiting the charge of the invader, while [Maj. B.] Elliott’s scouts and Quantrill’s
company sat quietly on their steeds awaiting his further coming; but as long as the
enemy could confine himself to the artillery fight at long range he was content, but in
the mean time General Marmaduke, after surveying the position, and I having notified
him that a heavy body of infantry was endeavoring to flank me on the left, I received
orders to fall back, which I did, by ordering Colonel Jeans to mount his men and
directing Bledsoe to withdraw his piece, at the same time ordering Lieutenant [R.A.]
Collins, who was in charge of the piece that commanded the Fayetteville road, to
keep a steady fire on the enemy until I could mount and form all my regiments, which
he did, pouring a murderous fire upon them, driving them at one time back from their
guns. I will here mention that no man ever evinced more courage or executed his
orders more cheerfully or promptly than Lieutenant Collins on that occasion. Captain
Bledsoe, Sergeant Bledsoe, Lieutenants Connor and Anson, and, in fact, all of this
battery, have the thanks of the entire brigade for their gallant conduct upon this trying
occasion. I then ordered Colonel Thompson to mount his regiment, which was done
in the best order, moving the piece under Bledsoe by the right to the rear; Thompson’
s regiment followed, after which came Jeans, the Collins gun following, covered by
Gordon’s regiment. I could not, if disposed, speak too highly of the conduct of the
officers and men of this brigade in making the above move, it being executed under a
terrible fire; but others witnessed it, and say men never gave way in better order. After
falling back about half a mile, we found the remainder of this division formed and
ready to protect us. By order of the general we took position on the hill, bringing our
guns in battery back of the village of Newburg, there awaiting and expecting to
witness brilliant charges of the foe; but, as before, he depended on dislodging us
with his long-range guns. Here the naked eye could see General Blunt’s columns of
cavalry and infantry pouring over the hills in our front, and advancing slowly and
cautiously to the attack. It was a splendid sight – flaunting banners, serried ranks, as
the long lines came gleaming on;
Ere yet the life-blood warm and wet,
Had dimmed a glistening bayonet!
Being satisfied that with our small force and short-range guns we could not cope
with him, we withdrew to the Boston Mountains, where we placed one of Bledsoe’s
guns in position, and there awaited his advance. We were not allowed to tarry long,
for they soon reached the foot of the mountain, commenced placing their batteries in
position, and opened fire. Our gunners were eager and ready. The work again
commenced, and at short range. We then exhausted all of our artillery ammunition,
and from that cause had to push our guns ahead, which we did, and did safely. I had
ordered Lieutenant Gregg at that point over to the right, but finding the enemy were
making a move still to his right, I withdrew him, and had him to form back on the
main road to await further orders. Immediately on top of the mountain I had a part of
Colonel Thompson’s command, under Major [M.W.] Smith, formed to receive the
enemy, and a little to the rear of Smith, on the right, I had one company of Elliott’s
scouts, commanded by Captain martin. Smith and Martin calmly awaited the coming
of the enemy, and as they came charging up the hill in solid columns, they poured a
deadly fire on them, which sent them staggering down the mountain. By this time I
had other detachments formed bu a short distance in the rear (Smith and Martin
falling back and loading), who fired on them with much effect, being in easy gun-
shot. Martin, having his men ready and formed, delivered once more a terrible fire,
but in doing so this brigade suffered a terrible loss in the death of the gallant and
heroic Martin. He fell, as he lived, fighting for his home and fireside, “with his back to
the field and his feet to the foe.”
Ah! Soldier, to your honored rest;
Your truth and valor bearing;
The bravest are the tenderest,
The loving are the daring!
The enemy pushing us about this time with all the force he could urge on, and the
ground being of such a nature as not to allow us to form by regiments or squadrons,
I was compelled to detach companies and form them on both sides of the road,
receive and fire on the enemy, load, form, and reform, using in this manner every
company in the regiments of this brigade. We fought them in this manner about three
hours, never once allowing them to reach our rear in sufficient numbers to capture
any of the men.
I will likewise mention that [Col. Emmett] MacDonald’s men were at the same time
equally as active in their efforts to retard the movements of the enemy. I noticed also
with much pleasure the gallant conduct of Captain Shoup, who commanded his little
howitzer well and delivered his fire with great coolness, effect, and precision. With
this battery was a brave and fighting driver, who was conspicuous for his daring and
the readiness with which he obeyed all orders.
Captains Webb and Snook, of Colonel Jeans’ regiment, were both wounded while
gallantly leading their men on the enemy.
I cannot close this report without speaking in high terms of the coolness and daring
of Lieutenant McCoy, of your escort, and Lieutenant Conkling, of Thompson’s
regiment. They, with the prestige and glory of Shiloh still having on their garments,
were in the thickest of the fight.
Our men fought them well, and while the enemy evinced great desperation, our
command showed a determination and coolness that their officers have reason to
be proud of, contending, as they were, with vastly superior numbers, the sight of
which did not in the least discourage them.
About sunset the enemy made the last and desperate charge, led by Colonel [L.R.]
Jewell, in person. Colonels Thompson’s and Jeans’ men received him with a fire the
effect of which will ever be remembered by Jewell’s regiment. In that charge Jewell
fell, mortally wounded. Upon the fall of Jewell, Colonel Gordon, with a portion of his
regiment and a portion of Colonel Jeans’, under Captain Jarrett, charged the
Federals hotly and fiercely, sending them back in perfect confusion, and thus ending
a hard day’s fight.
It is not necessary for me to state the casualties of this brigade, as they have already
been reported to you; but I will here mention that the officers and men of this brigade
executed promptly, cheerfully, and willingly every order that was given; were easily
rallied; held all positions assigned them, and fell back when ordered, only to form
and reform and fire again.
Elliott and his scouts were to be seen performing their duty on all occasions.
Lieutenant Gregg, of Quantrill’s command, and his company had been held in
reserve by me during the greater part of the fight, so that when suitable ground was
obtained a grand charge might be made. The position was taken, this stone wall
company formed, Gregg at its head, the light of the battle on his face, but, fortunately
or unfortunately, the enemy checked pursuit just before coming to where they
crouched like lions in their lairs.
I will also here speak favorably of Captains Brewster (my adjutant), Nichols,
Edwards, St. Clair, and Page, for the service they performed relative to their various
duties.
Many others I could call your attention to for their gallant conduct, among whom are
Philip Wilder, of your own escort; Lieutenants Moorman and Buffington, of Gordon’s;
but as the general commanding was everywhere upon the field, he saw as much,
perhaps more than myself.
I close this report with the proud satisfaction of knowing that we did our duty, and are
anxious once more to meet the enemy in a fair field and open fight.
Respectfully,
Jo. O. Shelby
Colonel, Commanding Missouri Cavalry Brigade
(Col. Jo. O. Shelby to Capt. E.G. Williams, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Fourth Division, First Army
Corps).
-----
Camp Dripping Springs, Ark.
November 30, 1862
Report of Col. Emmett MacDonald, Missouri Cavalry.
Captain: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part my command took
in the late battle in the Boston Mountains:
On November 28, I received orders about 9 o’clock in the morning to prepare for
action, as the enemy was engaging Colonel Shelby’s command about 1 mile in my
advance. I t once moved at a rapid pace with my command, and took position
northwest of Kidd’s Mill, near Cane Hill. My position being much exposed, the enemy
poured a heavy volley of grape upon my ranks, while another battery threw shell in my
rear and front continually, but without killing or wounding a man. In the mean time
Colonel Shelby had fallen back with his brigade. At this time I received orders to fall
back and form south of Boonsborough, where Colonel’s Shelby and [C.A.] Carroll
were posted. The enemy appeared at this point in great force. A large body of infantry
moved rapidly upon our left and front. Here a general engagement seemed
imminent; but the enemy appeared in such large force I was again ordered to fall
back, which I did, fighting the enemy at every point, whether the position suited or not,
until, reaching the mountain, a halt was ordered for one more desperate resistance. I
took position upon the right; Colonel Shelby the center. I immediately advanced upon
the enemy, when a sharp engagement ensued. Our firing was so constant and well
directed that he seemed completely checked; but long lines of infantry and cavalry
again appeared, re-enforcing him, until it seemed that all Yankeedom had turned
out. Feeling confident that my men would not flinch, I determined to meet them, while
Colonel Shelby was preparing to receive them in the center. Here they charged us
again and again, but they were driven back until our rear moved farther up the
mountains. In this way we fought them over the mountains and 3 miles down Cove
Creek, fighting at one point, falling back, forming, and fighting again. Their number
being five or six times greater than ours, and they knowing the fact, they pressed us
hard, and finally charged us with drawn sabers, when a hand to hand conflict
ensued. So very few of them were left that charged, they finally drew off their forces
and retreated back toward the mountain.
During the entire engagement Companies A and B fought nobly. No company of
officers and men ever fought better. Captain Harrison, commanding Company A, and
First Lieutenant Younts, Company B, and the lieutenants in both companies, deserve
much praise.
Privates and officers acted well throughout the entire engagement.
I lost in the engagement the following:
Company A
Officers 1 wounded
Privates 4 killed 6 wounded
Company B
Officers 2 wounded
Non-commissioned 1 wounded 1 missing
Privates 1 killed 2 wounded 3 missing
Company C
Privates 2 wounded
Company D
Non-commissioned 2 wounded
Privates 1 wounded
Total 5 killed 17 wounded 4 missing.
Respectfully,
Emmett MacDonald
Colonel, Commanding Missouri Cavalry
(Col. Emmett MacDonald to F.B. Davidson, Adjutant)
Headquarters Arkansas Cavalry Brigade
Camp near Dripping Springs, Ark.
November 29, 1862
Report of Col. Charles A. Carroll, C.S. Army, commanding Arkansas Cavalry Brigade
Captain: In compliance with General Orders, No. -, of even date, I have the honor to
make the following report of the conduct of the forces of my command in the
engagement of the 28th instant; but in justice to my command beg leave to state that,
having inspected the brigade on the 27th instant, I had only 200 effective men for duty
and 317 non-effective men. The non-effective men were composed of the sick and
men whose horses were in bad condition. Of the non-effective force, 60 men were on
duty as pickets, picketing the roads from our encampment to the Line road west of
us, and 100 men were detailed as escort for the trains of the division, which were
ordered to the rear on the 27th instant, leaving me 389 men to represent my brigade,
while the muster-rolls call for 1,700. With but few sick, the brigade is thus diminished
by the condition of the horses, which are worn down, having been constantly on the
move for six weeks, and for the want of forage and shoeing. Of the mountain howitzer
battery attached to my brigade, and commanded by First Lieutenant Hughey, only
one section was serviceable.
After being notified of the approach of the enemy, at 8 p.m. on the 27th instant, the
men were kept under arms and the horses saddled until the opening of the enemy’s
artillery north of us, in the direction of Colonel Shelby’s camp, on the morning of the
28th instant, at about 9 o’clock, when orders were received to move my command
rapidly to the front. After moving about 1 mile, I received orders to place the battery on
an eminence to the right, commanding the road leading north, with the two
regiments in line of battle perpendicular to the road, supporting the battery, my own
regiment on the right, under Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, and Colonel [J.C.] Monroe’
s regiment on the left of the road. The eminence occupied by my battery was
commanded by the heights north and northwest of us, from which points the artillery
of the enemy were firing; and although they had the range of my battery, they were at
too great a distance to be affected by our light metal. I was then ordered to the rear.
After moving 1 mile, I was directed to move rapidly to the rear and select some good
position. In a few minutes, however, further orders were received to continue moving
to the rear until otherwise ordered. Having moved half a mile beyond the summit of
the mountain on the Cane Hill and Cove Creek road, I received orders to halt and
occupy a position. I countermarched the command beyond the summit of the
mountain, and took position commanding the Cane Hill road, with the regiment
under Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson supporting the battery, and Colonel Monroe’s
regiment 200 yard to the right of Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson’s regiment. The fire of
the enemy’s artillery at this time was continuous and incessant on the rear of
Colonel Shelby’s command. I was ordered to throw out Colonel Monroe’s regiment
as skirmishers, but before the order could be obeyed I was ordered to move my
command to the rear, and soon thereafter ordered to take command of all the forces
in my advance, which separated me to some extent from my own brigade. Soon after
passing the pinnacle of the mountain, Colonel Monroe, who was marching in rear of
my regiment, received the enemy at short range, and retired, as previously directed.
Such was the nature of the ground from the top of the mountain to Cove Creek, a
distance of 1½ miles, that but few advantageous positions could be found. Just
before reaching Cove Creek, Captain Stanley’s company, of my regiment, was
ordered to an eminence commanding the road on which the enemy were to travel,
with orders to fire upon them with deliberation, and to retire immediately thereafter.
After reaching Cove Creek, Captains Gordon and Carroll, with their respective
companies, of my regiment, were directed to occupy an eminence on the right of the
road. The captains fired down upon the enemy and retired, as directed. From this
point on down Cove Creek, I selected suitable positions and placed detachments of
my regiment and Colonel Shelby’s brigade. At a point 2 miles below the junction of
the Cane Hill and Cove Creek roads, I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, with five
companies of my regiment and about 200 men of Colonel Thompson’s regiment,
Colonel Shelby’s brigade, to an eminence immediately over the road, with
instructions to let the enemy’s advance pass them before firing. Immediately in rear
of this point, Colonel Monroe formed with 86 men in the valley below. At this time the
enemy was pushing the rear with great energy, and made it necessary for the
companies left ambushed to receive them to retire very rapidly after firing. The
captains of my own command, who have reported to me, state that they obeyed
orders, receiving the enemy at close distance, the men behaving, almost without
exception, with great bravery. When the rear retired past the position occupied by
Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson and Colonel Thompson, they were followed very closely
by a detachment of the enemy’s cavalry, a much larger number halting just before
reaching the position above referred to. A lieutenant-colonel of the enemy’s force
was severely wounded by one of the volleys fired by the men of Lieutenant-Colonel
Johnson. At this time the confusion below the position above referred to of our
retiring men was disgraceful, and every effort made by officers to halt them futile, the
cry extending down the line that our friends had gorged the road and were being
sobered mercilessly by the enemy. Just then the roar of shot-guns from the
eminence occupied by Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson and Colonel [G.W.] Thompson
threw the enemy’s advance into confusion, when they were immediately charged by
Colonel Monroe, and after the third effort driven for the first time during the day, which
gave time for collecting and forming the scattered men, hitherto rapidly moving to the
rear. The enemy here concluded, notwithstanding the superior weight and quantity of
their artillery and their superior force, outnumbering ours more than ten to one, to risk
nothing against the positions of which we were availing ourselves, and at once
retired about sunset.
The conduct of the officers and men of my command throughout the entire day, and
almost without an exception, evidenced entire coolness and determined bravery, as
did the officers and men of Colonel Shelby’s brigade, of whom I assumed command
and placed in position. I would be glad to speak of them more particularly if my
personal acquaintance with these officers was such as to do so without a report
from them.
I will take occasion to remark that the retiring fight, lasting from 9 o’clock in the
morning until sunset, over a rugged and narrow road, with but a scanty supply of
ammunition, pursued by a greatly superior force, moving from position to position
with an astonishing rapidity, was well calculated to have confused, and, indeed,
demoralized men well drilled and disciplined, and it is, indeed, astonishing that
troops without drill should have evinced a nerve so steady, a courage so cool. In
moving the battery from the first position taken in the morning, the carriage of one of
the pieces was so badly broken as to render impossible to moving of it by horses.
Notwithstanding the gun thus dismantled was under a galling fire of the enemy’s
artillery, shells bursting by the minute around it, the cannoneers dismounted, and,
under the direction of their officers, bore the piece, crippled but triumphant, to the
rear. Just before reaching the second position taken by my brigade, as alluded to in
the above report, Captain Shoup, the commander, and Lieutenant Halliburton, of the
battery, met me. The captain at once took command of his company. There was now
but one serviceable gun of the four-gun battery, which was placed in position
frequently during the day with a skill and energy deserving a more substantial battery.
After passing some little distance beyond the top of the mountain, this gun was
placed in position and opened on the enemy. Notwithstanding the energy with which
it was handled, it was dismantled by the enemy’s artillery, the carriage being broken
to pieces by their heavy shot. This casualty was followed by a cavalry charge made
with great energy. The officers, unwilling to leave any trophy in the hands of their
country’s enemy, took the gun from the shattered carriage and bore this, too, to the
rear. I cannot but commend the pride and bravery of the men here evidenced.
The loss the brigade sustained is as follows: Colonel Monroe’s regiment, 3 men
slightly wounded, 4 horses killed and 1 wounded; Lieutenant-Colonel Johnston’s
regiment, 5 men were wounded and 2 men are missing; Captain Shoup’s battery, 3
men were wounded and 4 horses killed.
I am captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Chas. A. Carroll,
Colonel, Commanding Brigade
(Col. Charles A. Carroll to Capt. E.G. Williams, Asst. Adjt. Gen., 4th Div., 1st Corps,
Trans-Mississippi Army)
-----
Camp Dripping Springs, Ark.
December 1, 1862
Report of Col. Joseph O. Shelby, commanding Fourth Missouri Cavalry Brigade
Captain: Being called upon for a report of the action of this brigade in the Cane Hill
fight, I inclose the same, as follows:
My brigade consisted of the following regiments: First, commanded by [B.F.] Gordon;
Second, by [B.G.] Jeans; Third, by [G.W.] Thompson; also Elliott’s scouts and
Quantrill’s famous company, in command of First Lieutenant Gregg. Having had due
notice (eighteen hours previous) by the general commanding that the enemy were
advancing, we endeavored to be on the alert, but I must confess (thought it may
reflect somewhat upon myself) that the enemy, by his skillful management, fell upon
me sooner than I would have desired, considering that a portion of our division was
encamped some distance in my rear and I had but little time to give them the notice
required; yet I had sufficient time to place my men in their proper positions and await
the coming of the hated foe.
Between the hours of 9 and 10 a.m., Friday, November 28, he rapidly advanced and
unlimbered his guns, and sent his iron missiles in search of the “rebels.” We had
expected him (the enemy) to advance either on the Cincinnati or Fayetteville road, our
position covering both. Bledsoe, in command of the artillery, consisting of two iron 6-
pounders, had his guns so arranged as to cover each road; that is, one piece
bearing on the Cincinnati road and the other covering the Fayetteville road. Having
notice of the approach of the enemy on the Fayetteville road, I ordered all the
regiments to mount and form, knowing that their advance on that route gave them an
advantage over my position which could not be overlooked. If they forced a passage
down the main road, we would be cut off from assistance in the rear and be deprived
of the Cane Hill and Cove Creek road, thereby preventing our passage over the
mountain, the route our train had taken. The gun covering the Fayetteville road
occupied an elevated position, the hill descending to its foot about 300 yards. Here,
waiting for the enemy to advance, I took my position at the gun, which was so
masked as not to be seen by him. Thus waiting, and in no little suspense, he (the
enemy) soon showed himself with a four-gun battery, supported by infantry close up.
He opened rapidly, but the smoke of his guns had not cleared away before Bledsoe’
s gun responded, and continued to respond, showing to the naked eye that it was
sending death in every shot to our heartless invaders. I soon discovered that they
were not disposed to flank us on our right, and for the protection of our batteries I
ordered all the regiments to dismount, placing Gordon on our right, Jeans in the
center, and Thompson on our extreme left. By this time I had received satisfactory
information from the Cincinnati road, which convinced me that there was no move by
the enemy on that route, and I immediately ordered Captain Bledsoe to move the gun
that covered the Cincinnati road to a point which secured a cross-fire on the batteries
playing upon us. I should mention here that by this time they had at least twelve guns
bearing upon our positions, and then the artillery fight commenced in earnest,
lasting at this point about one hour and a half.
During this time Gordon, Jeans, and Thompson, lay close up to the guns, anxiously
awaiting the charge of the invader, while [Maj. B.] Elliott’s scouts and Quantrill’s
company sat quietly on their steeds awaiting his further coming; but as long as the
enemy could confine himself to the artillery fight at long range he was content, but in
the mean time General Marmaduke, after surveying the position, and I having notified
him that a heavy body of infantry was endeavoring to flank me on the left, I received
orders to fall back, which I did, by ordering Colonel Jeans to mount his men and
directing Bledsoe to withdraw his piece, at the same time ordering Lieutenant [R.A.]
Collins, who was in charge of the piece that commanded the Fayetteville road, to
keep a steady fire on the enemy until I could mount and form all my regiments, which
he did, pouring a murderous fire upon them, driving them at one time back from their
guns. I will here mention that no man ever evinced more courage or executed his
orders more cheerfully or promptly than Lieutenant Collins on that occasion. Captain
Bledsoe, Sergeant Bledsoe, Lieutenants Connor and Anson, and, in fact, all of this
battery, have the thanks of the entire brigade for their gallant conduct upon this trying
occasion. I then ordered Colonel Thompson to mount his regiment, which was done
in the best order, moving the piece under Bledsoe by the right to the rear; Thompson’
s regiment followed, after which came Jeans, the Collins gun following, covered by
Gordon’s regiment. I could not, if disposed, speak too highly of the conduct of the
officers and men of this brigade in making the above move, it being executed under a
terrible fire; but others witnessed it, and say men never gave way in better order. After
falling back about half a mile, we found the remainder of this division formed and
ready to protect us. By order of the general we took position on the hill, bringing our
guns in battery back of the village of Newburg, there awaiting and expecting to
witness brilliant charges of the foe; but, as before, he depended on dislodging us
with his long-range guns. Here the naked eye could see General Blunt’s columns of
cavalry and infantry pouring over the hills in our front, and advancing slowly and
cautiously to the attack. It was a splendid sight – flaunting banners, serried ranks, as
the long lines came gleaming on;
Ere yet the life-blood warm and wet,
Had dimmed a glistening bayonet!
Being satisfied that with our small force and short-range guns we could not cope
with him, we withdrew to the Boston Mountains, where we placed one of Bledsoe’s
guns in position, and there awaited his advance. We were not allowed to tarry long,
for they soon reached the foot of the mountain, commenced placing their batteries in
position, and opened fire. Our gunners were eager and ready. The work again
commenced, and at short range. We then exhausted all of our artillery ammunition,
and from that cause had to push our guns ahead, which we did, and did safely. I had
ordered Lieutenant Gregg at that point over to the right, but finding the enemy were
making a move still to his right, I withdrew him, and had him to form back on the
main road to await further orders. Immediately on top of the mountain I had a part of
Colonel Thompson’s command, under Major [M.W.] Smith, formed to receive the
enemy, and a little to the rear of Smith, on the right, I had one company of Elliott’s
scouts, commanded by Captain martin. Smith and Martin calmly awaited the coming
of the enemy, and as they came charging up the hill in solid columns, they poured a
deadly fire on them, which sent them staggering down the mountain. By this time I
had other detachments formed bu a short distance in the rear (Smith and Martin
falling back and loading), who fired on them with much effect, being in easy gun-
shot. Martin, having his men ready and formed, delivered once more a terrible fire,
but in doing so this brigade suffered a terrible loss in the death of the gallant and
heroic Martin. He fell, as he lived, fighting for his home and fireside, “with his back to
the field and his feet to the foe.”
Ah! Soldier, to your honored rest;
Your truth and valor bearing;
The bravest are the tenderest,
The loving are the daring!
The enemy pushing us about this time with all the force he could urge on, and the
ground being of such a nature as not to allow us to form by regiments or squadrons,
I was compelled to detach companies and form them on both sides of the road,
receive and fire on the enemy, load, form, and reform, using in this manner every
company in the regiments of this brigade. We fought them in this manner about three
hours, never once allowing them to reach our rear in sufficient numbers to capture
any of the men.
I will likewise mention that [Col. Emmett] MacDonald’s men were at the same time
equally as active in their efforts to retard the movements of the enemy. I noticed also
with much pleasure the gallant conduct of Captain Shoup, who commanded his little
howitzer well and delivered his fire with great coolness, effect, and precision. With
this battery was a brave and fighting driver, who was conspicuous for his daring and
the readiness with which he obeyed all orders.
Captains Webb and Snook, of Colonel Jeans’ regiment, were both wounded while
gallantly leading their men on the enemy.
I cannot close this report without speaking in high terms of the coolness and daring
of Lieutenant McCoy, of your escort, and Lieutenant Conkling, of Thompson’s
regiment. They, with the prestige and glory of Shiloh still having on their garments,
were in the thickest of the fight.
Our men fought them well, and while the enemy evinced great desperation, our
command showed a determination and coolness that their officers have reason to
be proud of, contending, as they were, with vastly superior numbers, the sight of
which did not in the least discourage them.
About sunset the enemy made the last and desperate charge, led by Colonel [L.R.]
Jewell, in person. Colonels Thompson’s and Jeans’ men received him with a fire the
effect of which will ever be remembered by Jewell’s regiment. In that charge Jewell
fell, mortally wounded. Upon the fall of Jewell, Colonel Gordon, with a portion of his
regiment and a portion of Colonel Jeans’, under Captain Jarrett, charged the
Federals hotly and fiercely, sending them back in perfect confusion, and thus ending
a hard day’s fight.
It is not necessary for me to state the casualties of this brigade, as they have already
been reported to you; but I will here mention that the officers and men of this brigade
executed promptly, cheerfully, and willingly every order that was given; were easily
rallied; held all positions assigned them, and fell back when ordered, only to form
and reform and fire again.
Elliott and his scouts were to be seen performing their duty on all occasions.
Lieutenant Gregg, of Quantrill’s command, and his company had been held in
reserve by me during the greater part of the fight, so that when suitable ground was
obtained a grand charge might be made. The position was taken, this stone wall
company formed, Gregg at its head, the light of the battle on his face, but, fortunately
or unfortunately, the enemy checked pursuit just before coming to where they
crouched like lions in their lairs.
I will also here speak favorably of Captains Brewster (my adjutant), Nichols,
Edwards, St. Clair, and Page, for the service they performed relative to their various
duties.
Many others I could call your attention to for their gallant conduct, among whom are
Philip Wilder, of your own escort; Lieutenants Moorman and Buffington, of Gordon’s;
but as the general commanding was everywhere upon the field, he saw as much,
perhaps more than myself.
I close this report with the proud satisfaction of knowing that we did our duty, and are
anxious once more to meet the enemy in a fair field and open fight.
Respectfully,
Jo. O. Shelby
Colonel, Commanding Missouri Cavalry Brigade
(Col. Jo. O. Shelby to Capt. E.G. Williams, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Fourth Division, First Army
Corps).
-----
Camp Dripping Springs, Ark.
November 30, 1862
Report of Col. Emmett MacDonald, Missouri Cavalry.
Captain: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part my command took
in the late battle in the Boston Mountains:
On November 28, I received orders about 9 o’clock in the morning to prepare for
action, as the enemy was engaging Colonel Shelby’s command about 1 mile in my
advance. I t once moved at a rapid pace with my command, and took position
northwest of Kidd’s Mill, near Cane Hill. My position being much exposed, the enemy
poured a heavy volley of grape upon my ranks, while another battery threw shell in my
rear and front continually, but without killing or wounding a man. In the mean time
Colonel Shelby had fallen back with his brigade. At this time I received orders to fall
back and form south of Boonsborough, where Colonel’s Shelby and [C.A.] Carroll
were posted. The enemy appeared at this point in great force. A large body of infantry
moved rapidly upon our left and front. Here a general engagement seemed
imminent; but the enemy appeared in such large force I was again ordered to fall
back, which I did, fighting the enemy at every point, whether the position suited or not,
until, reaching the mountain, a halt was ordered for one more desperate resistance. I
took position upon the right; Colonel Shelby the center. I immediately advanced upon
the enemy, when a sharp engagement ensued. Our firing was so constant and well
directed that he seemed completely checked; but long lines of infantry and cavalry
again appeared, re-enforcing him, until it seemed that all Yankeedom had turned
out. Feeling confident that my men would not flinch, I determined to meet them, while
Colonel Shelby was preparing to receive them in the center. Here they charged us
again and again, but they were driven back until our rear moved farther up the
mountains. In this way we fought them over the mountains and 3 miles down Cove
Creek, fighting at one point, falling back, forming, and fighting again. Their number
being five or six times greater than ours, and they knowing the fact, they pressed us
hard, and finally charged us with drawn sabers, when a hand to hand conflict
ensued. So very few of them were left that charged, they finally drew off their forces
and retreated back toward the mountain.
During the entire engagement Companies A and B fought nobly. No company of
officers and men ever fought better. Captain Harrison, commanding Company A, and
First Lieutenant Younts, Company B, and the lieutenants in both companies, deserve
much praise.
Privates and officers acted well throughout the entire engagement.
I lost in the engagement the following:
Company A
Officers 1 wounded
Privates 4 killed 6 wounded
Company B
Officers 2 wounded
Non-commissioned 1 wounded 1 missing
Privates 1 killed 2 wounded 3 missing
Company C
Privates 2 wounded
Company D
Non-commissioned 2 wounded
Privates 1 wounded
Total 5 killed 17 wounded 4 missing.
Respectfully,
Emmett MacDonald
Colonel, Commanding Missouri Cavalry
(Col. Emmett MacDonald to F.B. Davidson, Adjutant)
lor.
The Battle of
Massard Prairie
Massard Prairie
by Dale Cox
The first full-length account of
the 1864 Confederate attack on
Fort Smith, Arkansas.
the 1864 Confederate attack on
Fort Smith, Arkansas.
$19.95
Proceeds benefit the Cane Hill Battlefield Driving Tour Project
