Pitman Ferry

Pitman Ferry was a major river crossing on Current River and was located near the Missouri / Arkansas State Line. Originally known as Buck Skull the area on the Missouri side of the river, 1/2 mile below the crossing, is now known as Currentview.

William Hix (Hicks) was the first to operate a ferry beginning about 1804 at Indian Ford. Henry Schoolcraft, a noted American geographer, geologist and entnologist, makes mention in his writings of crossing Hick's Ferry on Monday, January 25, 1819. "At three o'clock I reached the banks of the river at Hicks' Ferry, and was conveyed over in a ferry-flat, or scow." "It is 1,000 feet wide at the Ferry, and has an average depth of eight feet." "At Hicks's Ferry, a town is in contemplation. The site is dry, airy, and eligible, and will command many advantages for mercantile purposes."

The Natchitoches Trail, improved in the 1830's as the "Old Military Road", passed through this area. It was also a location along the mail route between Cape Girardeau, Missouri to Batesville, Arkansas. The Benge Party of Cherokees used this road during the winter of 1838-39 as they were being relocated to Oklahoma Territory, making it a part of the "Trail of Tears."

The ferry was sold to Dr. Peyton Pitman and was run by him and later his son, Erasmus. During the Civil War, this area was utilized by both the North and South throughout the war. Four skirmishes occurred here in 1862 on April 1, July 20, October 27 and November 25.

Lawrence Dalton, in his "History of Randolph County Arkansas, published in 1946-47, gives this account of battles fought at Pitman Ferry.

"There was also a camp of soldiers at Pitman Ferry for several months. General Hardee was there awhile after moving from Pocahontas. His camp was across the river from Pitman just south of "Buckskull," on the bank of Current River. Gen. Jeff Thompson and his men were in camp exactly on the line between what is now Clay and Randolph County, just south of the old Pitman ferry. On July 20, 1862, a real battle was fought here between the soldiers who had been ordered to move from Pocahontas to Greenville, Missouri, up the old Military road by way of Pitman. After this battle they are reputed to have drove the Federals away and went on to Greenville, where they were ordered back on account of a threat of invading forces of Federals from the northwest. Here they again met in an engagement, November 25, 1863. A large portion of the troops which spent some time at Pitman and at Pocahontas finally were ordered to Bowling Green, Kentucky, going up by way of Bird's Point on the Mississippi, just south of Cairo, Illinois."

Colonel William Dewey, gives a very detailed account of another battle which occurred October 27, 1862. It as well as other references to Pitman Ferry, which occur in the "War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies" are as follows:

CINCINNATI, OHIO, July 30, 1861.

Major General GEORGE B. McCLELLAN, War Department: from reliable information I learn that about 7,000 or 8,000 Mississippi Tennessee troops have left Corinth, Union City, Camps Cheatham and Troubles for Eastern Virginia.

About 2,400 Tennesseeans from Mound City have gone down the Tennessee River to Big Sandy, where they have boats; thence they intend going by Paducah and receive re-enforcements; thence to Caledonia, on Ohio River, above Cairo, and land. A portion are to cross to Illinois Central Railroad track and destroy bridges. The batteries of 32 and 64 pounders I informed you of, which were at Dover, on the Cumberland River, are to go with this division. They have also eight 6-pounder and four 12-pounders. Troops sickly and discontented. Ammunition rather scarce. All armed with mixed description of muskets and rifles.

General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS UPPER DISTRICT ARKANSAS,

Pitman's Ferry, September 17, 1861.

Major General LEONIDAS POLK,

Commanding Department Numbers 2, &c.:

GENERAL: Your dispatches of the 14th instant came to hand within the last two hours.*

The order from the War Department to which you refer, placing the military operations in Arkansas and Missouri under your control, has not been received. I shall, not, however, on that account raise any objection to your authority, but will comply cheerfully with your orders to move my command to the Mississippi River.

I have already given Colonel Cleburne orders to move with his regiment as soon as practicable and repair the Point Pleasant plank road. I agree with you that this route, if practicable, which I shall soon ascertain, is the shortest and easiest by which I can place my command in supporting distance of your force.

I am much embarrassed by the number of sick. The morning report shows 900 sick in a command of 4,529 present. This number does not include that part of my command at Pocahontas, numbering about 1,100 men. I take for granted you do not intend that I shall take my entire force from this place, but that I shall leave a force sufficient to protect my hospital and supplies.

As soon as the plank road is repaired, I shall transport my command to Point Pleasant with the least practicable delay. I will write again in time to have supplies sent to meet my command at that point.

With high respect, your obedient servant,

W. J. HARDEE,

Brigadier-General.

As your messenger was so long in coming to me, I shall send this by Pocahontas and Memphis, with the hope that it will reach you within three days.

HEADQUARTERS UPPER DISTRICT ARKANSAS,

Pitman's Ferry, September 18, 1861.

Major General LEONIDAS POLK,

Commanding Department Numbers 2, Columbus, Ky.:

GENERAL: I send herewith a copy of my communication to you last night, and sent by express from Pocahontas to Memphis. I shall send this by courier direct to Columbus, Ky.

I have nothing to add, except that I shall bring you about 4,000 men, including all arms. I have twelve pieces of artillery in tolerable condition. The greater portion of my cavalry I shall feel compelled to leave here, and one regiment of infantry, not yet organized, for the protection of the hospital supplies and the inhabitants in this part of the State. Colonel Wirt Adams, of Mississippi, wrote me that he had orders to join my command, and as I shall be deficient in cavalry, I wish you would telegraph him to bring forward his regiment without delay and re-enforce me. One of my regiments of infantry has just been organized, the others are improving in their drill, and are able even now to get from one position to another with tolerable facility.

With high respect, your obedient servant,

W. J. HARDEE,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS UPPER DISTRICT ARKANSAS,

Pitman's Ferry, September 18, 1861.

Major General A. S. JOHNSTON,

Commanding Department Numbers 2, &c.:

GENERAL: I received information to-day through the papers that you had been assigned to the command of Department Numbers 2, which I may be permitted to say, without disrespect to your predecessor, gave me great pleasure. I deem it proper to inform you at once, and without waiting for your order assuming command, that I received last night an order from Major-General Polk, directing me to move my command to the Mississippi River. A copy of my reply is herewith inclosed.* The route indicated to me by Major-General Polk is by the way of the Point Pleasant plank road, which is the shortest route for me to take in order to join your command in Kentucky by many miles, but at present this route is impracticable for cannon. I shall start Colonel Cleburne with his regiment in the morning to put the road in thorough repair. In the mean time I shall get my wagons repaired, my mules shod, and every-thing in readiness for a forward movement. After leaving a sufficient force here and at Pocahontas to guard our hospitals and supplies, I hope to be able to join you with 4,000 effective men.

With high respect, your obedient servant,

W. J. HARDEE,

Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEPARTMENT, Saint Louis, Mo., September 28, 1861.

General GRANT, Commanding at Cairo, Ill.:

Colonel Carlin reports from his headquarters, at Ironton, Mo., under date of September 26, that there is no rebel force nearer that point than Pitman's Ferry, Ark., except small marauding bands near Bloomfield.

On the 23rd instant Hardee was at Pitman's Ferry and Pocahontas with 7,000 men. Three of his regiments left that day for Columbus, Ky., via Point Pleasant, Mo. For the latter place the balance of the force was to leave about next week. The whole command was composed of nine regiments and twenty-six pieces of artillery.

CHAUNCEY McKEEVER,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HDQRS. FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT MO. S. G.,

Camp at Carter's, Mo., October 22, 1861 - 8.30 a. m.

DEAR SIR: Having learned on Sunday that the enemy was advancing from the east and west on my position at Fredericton for the purpose of cutting off my retreat, I fell back southward 12 miles, and leaving my train in a condition to move, I marched back at 1 a. m. Monday, for the purpose of occupying the town with my troops alone, and fighting either party that made its appearance first. The enemy had heard of my marching the evening before, and, by a forced march, occupied the town before I reached it. I could not possible learn their number, and wasted the whole morning in endeavoring to find out their number and position by spies, but could not succeed. At 12 o'clock I placed my men in position, nd then drove in their pickets. They came, and in more than double our numbers, and deployed immediately in our front, and opened with their rifled cannon. We returned their fire with one 12-pounder and one of our sixes. This we kept up for thirty minutes, when their line, having advanced within musket range of Lowe's regiment (which I had places in ambush, a considerable distance from our main line), a galling fire was opened upon it, which was only returned when Lowe's men could get dead aim. The object for which Lowe was placed having been accomplished, he should have fallen back; but, with unparalleled courage, he remained until he was shot thought the head and immediately killed, when his men fell back behind my main line. About this time their rifled cannon had found the range of my guns and the main line, and their percussion shells were bursting in quick succession among us. One of them knocked off the two drivers of the limber of the 12-pounder, and the horsed ran entirely away, leaving the gun without ammunition or power of motion. It being a double trailed gun, and all the others being stock-trailed, it was impossible to remove it, and therefore I left it on the field.

Too much praise cannot be awarded to Lieutenant Sam. Harris, who served this gun, with but one assistant (the other having gone in pursuit of the limber) until the ammunition in the trail-chest was exhausted. About this time one of the shells, just passing the top of the hill, behind which the Second Regiment was lying down, struck Captain Flourney in the left breast, and, exploding, instantly killed him and Captain Neveille, who was leaning on his shoulder. Captain Flourney was transferred to my command from the Bluff City Grays, of Memphis, and was a gallant young gentleman. Captain Neveille was from Stoddard County, Missouri.

Finding now that the enemy were being re-enforced with a regiment of cavalry from Iron Mountain, I ordered a retreat by the right wing, placing each battalion in ambush, to check a pursuit by their cavalry. I had scarcely placed Brown's battalion when a charge was made by their cavalry pst the fence behind which they lay. When at twenty yards a fire was poured into them, which emptied nearly every saddle. A running fight was continued for nearly 6 miles, my men keeping perfect order, except my dragoons, who were completely stampeded several times. I continued my retreat to this place, which is 26 miles from Fredericton. I will leave here at 12 o'clock to go to Greenville, and then shape my course by the circumstances which arise.

Major Shall has been hovering on the south side of Ironton, with 250 dragoons and 100 Missourians, to assist me, but to-day I have received a dispatch from him that his duty impels him to return to Pitman's Ferry, to prepare to defend that post, which will be 50 miles in my rear, if I can maintain myself at Greenville. I hope you will send a few regiments over into Stoddard County, to encourage the people, as they may be discouraged by my defeat. I will give you a detailed report of the whole expedition as soon as I reach a permanent camp.*

Yours, most respectfully, M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

CAMP GREENVILLE,October 23, 1861 - 7 o'clock p. m.

SIR: I have just been informed that the enemy in strength, say 5,000 men, are in 20 miles of me, with the intention of following me to Pitman's Ferry. I will start immediately, and go to Bloomfield, as I mentioned in my letter of yesterday, and if the forces I have asked are sent me, I think I can prevent their return to Ironton.

Activity will now accomplish much, and I hope to have your assistance. I will send you information constantly, and if the enemy return, you shall know it. They will try, i expect, to take Bloomfield, and I wish your troops there to disappoint them.

Yours, most respectfully, M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding. Major-General POLK. BLOOMFIELD,

Friday, October 25, 1861 - 7 o'clock p. m.

SIR: I reached here an hour ago, having left my command at Saint Francisville. From what I can hear to-day the enemy have not followed up their intentions of pursing us, and have returned to the line from Cape Girardeau to Ironton. I have a splendid position for defense or unexpected sortie, and by Monday I hope to begin another march after them if my horses are enough rested. My deserters have mostly come in, and I have more men, and in better spirits, now than ever before, although I did not get as many as I expected in the upped counties, on account of the scarcity of guns. The troops stationed at Pitman's Ferry have not acted with the gallantry they should have. My adjutant will made a detailed statement as soon as possible. Let me know by courier if any re-enforcements have been sent me, so that I may make by arrangements accordingly.

Yours, most respectfully, M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding. Major General LEONIDAS POLK, C. S. A., Columbus, Ky.

COLUMBUS, KY., October 25, 1861.General A. S. JOHNSTON, Bowling Green, Ky.:

GENERAL: You will see by the inclosed the state of things with Thompson.* My reply to him is, I have no regiments to send to him for the purpose he proposes. I have my hands full with what is immediately before me and around me. My advice to him, sent forward today, is to fall back on Pitman's Ferry, if he thinks that the better line for the security of his command and of the interests of the campaign, and unite with the forces left there by General Hardee. If he cannot accomplish that from the point at which he is (Bloomfield), then he must pass out to the plank road, and if the is pursued and cannot make successful resistance, to cross the river and join his forces to those at Island Numbers 10 until we can get aid from below. That is the best disposition he can make of his force, should he be pursued by the enemy, as he may be. So long as we hold this point the enemy is powerless to do mischief by attempting to cross troops below this point with boats. I am hurrying the regiments from Arkansas now in and near Memphis to get them ready for the field, but the reparation of arms bodes on slowly.

I will keep you advised of the progress of events.

Respectfully, your obedient servant, L. POLK, Major-General, Commanding.

HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, WESTERN DEPARTMENT, Columbus, Ky., October 25, 1861.

Colonel SOLON BORLAND:

SIR: A dispatch from General Thompson of 23rd informs me that the enemy in force, as he is informed, to the number of 5,000, were following him in his retreat to Pitman's Ferry from Greenville. I inferred from his letter that he did not intend falling back on Pitman's Ferry, but would pass across the swamp to Bloomfield, and then to the river by way of the plank road. He will no doubt have informed you of his and the enemy's movements.

My object in this note is to say that I think you should remove the stores you have at your command down the river and beyond the reach of the enemy, as far as you have means of doing so. The powder and other ammunition especially you will take care to have removed. My advice is that you send all not necessary for your wants and that of any command likely to operate with you there round by water to Memphis. The same with the other stores.

You have no doubt considered all the contingencies that might happen and have discussed them with General Hardee, and are prepared to make such dispositions as he may have advised and as you shall think expedient, but I have thought it best ot send to you a courier stating such facts as I have mentioned above of the enemy and to advise as to the safety of the stores under your charge.

I have thought it best and safest to send two small steamers from all the circumstances it would be safe to retain in that part of the State; the rest send to Memphis. If you have boats in the river, take possession of them for the service of the Government for the purpose above stated.

I do not know the amount of force you have at your disposal or can command, but take it for granted you have not enough to enable you to resist for any long time the amount of force General Thompson says was in motion.

I am mainly concerned for the stores that are with you, and have no idea that the enemy in that force will think of pressing far into the State.

Not doubting you will act wisely in the whole matter, I remain, respectfully, your obedient servant, L. POLK, Major-General, Commanding.

HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, WESTERN DEPARTMENT,

Columbus, Ky., October 25, 1861.

Brigadier-General THOMPSON, Commanding Missouri State Troops:

SIR: I am in receipt of your letters of the 18th, 20th, 22th, and 23rd.*

The reports of your operations are highly interesting, and we have been pleased to know that you have so completely accomplished the main object of your expedition-that relating to the destruction of the bridges. I am glad to know that you can speak so satisfactorily of the behavior of your troops at Fredericktown, but regret to their you should have sustained a loss of the valuable men whole names you mention. I note what you say of sending you regiments to support you from my command. I regret to say that the information we have of the position and purposes of the enemy in our immediate front makes it impossible for me to detach any portion of my force for service remote from my position. I have not the force to spare.

My opinion is that you should do one of two things, either fall back into Arkansas to Pitman's Ferry, or fall back on to the plank road and come out at Point Pleasant. If you conclude to do the former, you can cross the river at the Ferry, and take al the boats at the western side, and make your stand on the opposite side, where you can make successful resistance.

If you conclude to take the latter course, which, considering you are at Bloomfield, I think the most probable, then you must make your way to the river by the plank road, and if you cannot maintain your position on the other side, you must cross over and take up your position on the bank at Island Numbers 10.

Your force can be usefully employed there until we can obtain re-enforcements from the South and be prepared to move on Southeastern Missouri. I am making that position one of strength, and it is as important to Missouri as to any other State. I shall have a boat always at Island Numbers 10, where you might be crossed over, or, if you think to go below, wherever you want her. I hope you will keep me well advised of your movements. I send by one of your messengers a dispatch to Colonel Borland, to advise him of the course and purposes of the enemy. You will have no doubt given him warning yourself, but I have certain suggestions to make to him which I hope will be in time.

Respectfully, your obedient servant, L. POLK, Major-General, Commanding.

No. 2. Report of Captain H. P. Hawkins, Independent Company Missouri Cavalry.

PATTERSON, MO., Sunday p.m., November 16, 1861.

SIR: In conformity with your desire, expressed in order of 12th instant and received at Greenville, I visited Doniphan, Ripley County, and went within 6 miles of the State line. I have just returned to this place with my company, all safe. I succeeded in capturing the lieutenant in command of the rebel pickets at Doniphan. Owing to our want of knowledge of their location, the rest were enabled to escape by a most precipitate retreat. From the manner of their start, would not be astonished to hear they were still running. We followed them on the Pitman Ferry road some 2 miles south of Doniphan, and would have gone through to the ferry, but prudence dictated a retreat. We had accomplished all we expected. We routed the pickets, captured 1 or 2 horses, several guns, pistols, blankets, saddles, &c...................

HENRY P. HAWKINS, Commanding Independent Missouri Cavalry.

HDQRS. TRANS-MISS. DISTRICT, DEPT. Numbers 2,

Jacksonport, February 7, 1862.

General STERLING PRICE, Commanding Missouri Troops, Springfield:

DEAR GENERAL: I am sorry that I am compelled to postpone my visit to your headquarters. I learn this morning that the enemy have taken possession of Greenville in such close proximity to my depot and base of operations that I must stay here to look to it. It is said that a regiment of infantry, three companies of cavalry, and a section of artillery are there as an advance to other troops moving down from Fredericktown, and that it is the intention to fortify at that point. I must not let them make a lodgment so near to me. I have ordered back Colonel McCarver's Arkansas regiment to Pitman's Ferry; have ordered down Colonel M. C. Mitchell's regiment from the neighborhood of Yellville, Colonel Le Moyne's regiment from Little Rock, and will hatter together such troops as I can in this vicinity to oppose this attempt of the enemy to seize so desirable a position.

I shall order General Pike to take position in Lawrence County near you, say Mount Vernon, with instructions to co-operate with you in any emergency. He has, as he told me, about 8,000 or 9,000 men and three of artillery. Three of his regiments are, I believe, whites. The others half-breed Indians, &c. All true men, he says.

I will try to raise an army here (Jacksonport). McCulloch and McIntosh I will move to Pitman's Ferry and Poplar Bluff. I hope you will be enabled to increase your command to 13,000 or 15,000 men by the 20th of March, when I desire to open the campaign, and earnestly hope that I can. I have called on Arkansas for 10,000 men, say I get 5,000. I have called on Louisiana for several regiments, say I get three (2,500.) I have called on Texas; several fine regiments there already organized, armed, equipped, and disciplined. One on Red River of 1,100 men en route to join me; say from Texas 2,000 men by the 20th. McCulloch's will have 10,000. This will give me here 5,000+2,500+2,000+10,000=19,500. Artillery added, say 20,000. You will have, I hope, 15,000; Pike, 10,000. With these, can we not hope to take Saint Louis by rapid marches and assault? But we will speak further of this when I have the opportunity to visit you.

So many mistakes have occurred during this war by the similarity of flags that I have had a battle-flag made, one of which I send you for our army. Please have one made for each regiment of your army, to be carried in battle.

Hoping soon to have an opportunity to see you, I am, general, very sincerely and respectfully, your obedient servant,

EARL VAN DORN, Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS TRANS-MISSISSIPPI DISTRICT,

Pocahontas, Ark., February 14, 1862.

Major General STERLING PRICE, Commanding Army of Missouri:

GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your dispatch by the hands of Colonel Taylor, your aide-de-camp. I send orders in the morning by express to General McCulloch to send all of this infantry under Colonel McIntosh to Springfield to report to you. I presume (I have no returns) that he has about 5,000 men. I had already ordered General Pike to Mount Vernon, in Lawrence County, with about 7,000 men, mostly cavalry, from the Indian Territory. I am told by the general that most of these are half-breed Indians, and good, reliable men. His force will be increased by several regiments of Arkansas infantry now in process of organization, also by two or three batteries of artillery.

General McCulloch, with the cavalry, will come here, where I am raising an army from Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana; I hope 12,000 or 15,000 men or more. I hear of active measures being taken in Arkansas to comply with my call for 10,000 men. Louisiana will probably send me 4,000. This will give me, with McCulloch's cavalry and some other troops here and coming, say 18,000 men at the Missouri line above this point. You at Springfield will have of Missouri troops, say, 10,000 men by the 1st of March, McIntosh 5,000, Pike 8,000, in all 23,000 for defensive operations, or 15,000 for offensive operations (Pike's command being intended for defense alone or as a corps of observation on the Kansas border).

The above will be our probable force by the 1st of April; at least I hope so. I will first state, general, my plan for the campaign in Missouri; afterwards what I desire should be your plan of action. It was my wish to see and consult with you on this subject in person; but I found I could not leave here, at least for the present, and am therefore compelled to put in writing what would have been better discussed personally. I shall, however, instruct Colonel Taylor to destroy this dispatch in the event of his being arrested, for its contents should be known only to yourself.

I design attempting Saint Louis. As soon as I can get my wing ready to march from Pitman's Ferry I intend putting your column in motion toward Salem, in Dent County, covering your object by moving your advance towards Rolla. I will move so as to join you between Salem and Potosi, leaving Ironton to my right. These movements will be made secretly and rapidly, without tents or baggage, except for the sick. From the point of junction of the two columns I will push on by rapid marches to Saint Louis, and attempt it at once by assault. As we advance, the bridges on the railroads from Sedalia, Rolla, and Ironton will be destroyed, thus throwing the enemy upon the wagon roads, and preventing him from re-enforcing the city soon enough to oppose us there.This seems to me the movement best calculated to win us Missouri and relieve General Johnston, who is heavily threatened in Kentucky. Once in the city of Saint Louis, the railroads leading to ti from the east should be at once destroyed by our cavalry as far as practicable; also the road to Cairo. We should fortify opposite, on the Illinois side. The city once ours the State is ours, and the armies of the enemy on her soil and in Kansas would supply us with arms for her people, who would gather to our standard from the west and north.

Flour, salt, and a little bacon in our wagons, and beef cattle driven with us, should be our commissariat. Grain-bags, to contain two days' rations of corn, to be carried on our troopers' saddles, and money our paymaster's department, and sufficient ammunition our ordnance department.

Being between Ironton and Rolla, if we are immediately threatened on either hand we can strike without whole force to the right or to the left, as might seem most advisable, taking the two armies in detail. If we were repulsed from Saint Louis, or if we found it not advisable or practicable to attempt it, we could attack the enemy in the field towards Rolla and Sedalia, passing up the river, and gathering together our friends in that section of country to re-enforce us.

This is as much, general, as I can now write, as I desire to send off couriers early in the morning to Generals McCulloch and Pike and Colonel Hebert; but I hope to see you before the 1st of April, when I will confer fully with you upon the subject.

Now, with this plan in view, I do not think it advisable to disturb the enemy or alarm him any more than is necessary until we are ready to march. But if in the mean time, with the force at your disposal, you think it perfectly practicable to strike him a blow at Rolla, secure his arms, and check his intention of advancing for a while, it is well to do so. Having done this, pause where you are, and call in recruits from northwest, and maneuver your column over the country between Rolla and Springfield until I am in readiness with my column to join you at or near Potosi. Pike can id you in this, but he should not go too far, as he would leave Western Arkansas, the Indian Territory, and the counties west of you exposed too much to the half-savage enemy in Kansas.

If I could enter more fully into this subject and set forth the advantages which it presents to my mind, I think, general, that I would have your hearty co-operation in the campaign in Missouri. I am truly devoted to the interest of the whole Confederacy, and look to the whole field of operations from the Potomac to the plains of New Mexico for my study, and pray God to guide me in the true paths to victory and my country's independence.

I sincerely hope that if you attempt this move you may add new laurels to the wreath already encircling your brow, and that Missouri may again boast of having struck another gallant blow for her liberty and the vindication of her rights.

I send you copies of letters I had sent to Generals McCulloch and Pike.* I send them in the morning orders to move, as I have already stated, and to hurry the troops on to you. I have taken it for granted that you can supply these re-enforcements from the country around you by purchases. I have been informed by Colonels Snead and Taylor, as well as by other reliable gentlemen,, that the counties around you are rich in everything in the way of provisions needed by an army. Let me know as soon as possible what you will require. I have a depot at Jacksonport, and can, I hope, supply you with many things you may want. Please keep me advised of your movements and intentions, as well as of the movements and strength of the enemy, so far as you are able to learn them.

I have ordered a line of expressmen from Memphis to Springfield. By it regular communications may be made twice a week. Send special couriers with important matter.

Excuse the hurries style of this letter, general, and believe me, very truly and respectfully, your obedient servant,

EARL VAN DORN, Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSISSIPPI,

Saint Louis, April 6, 1862.

General CURTIS, Cassville, Mo.:

General Steele will cross Black River at Pitman's Ferry and observe Pocahontas. As you approach he will move towards Salem or that vicinity to join you. Great carer should be taken in your flank march not to be attacked in flank. Steele will observe same precaution. I think your combined forces will be sufficient for anything the enemy can bring against you. If certain that main body of enemy has moved to Black River, you should move by rapid marches, so as to prevent his driving Steele back before you can effect a junction.

H. W. HALLECK, Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE MISSISSIPPI,

Saint Louis, April 6, 1862.

General CURTIS, Cassville, Mo.:

Some time must elapse before the Fort Scott forces will be in a condition to do much. I think a large force should be left in southwest if you can spare it. General Steele will be directed not to advance beyond Pitman's Ferry, but to hold himself in readiness to co-operate with you. If the enemy should concentrate near Batesville or Jacksonport, Steele will unite with you.

H. W. HALLECK, Major-General.

REEVES' STATION, April 22, 1862.

Major-General HALLECK, Pittsburg, Teen.:

The telegraph line has not ben in operation for the last week. One brigade is at Pocahontas, two regiments of infantry and one of cavalry; two regiment of cavalry are at Pitman's Ferry and two of infantry en route for that place.

Our movements have been delayed by constant heavy rains and high water. The supply trains could not be across the streams between this and Pilot Knob; the pontoon bridge was not sent forward for want of transportation. I shall leave here for Jacksonport this p. m. or tomorrow morning. The rebel troops have all left Arkansas except 500 Missouri cavalry and Pike's Indians. I shall not be able to reach the Mississippi River from Jacksonport, except by river transportation, for some weeks hence. The Cache River bottom is impracticable. My spy sent to General has not returned. The general was reported at Forsyth on the 10th instant. There appears to be a strong Union feeling in Arkansas. Committees have been sent to welcome us.

FRED'K STEELE,Brigadier-General.

PITMAN'S FERRY, May 15, 1862.

J. C. KELTON, Assistant Adjutant-General:

Having been order by Major-General Curtis to march with four regiment of infantry to Tennessee via Cape Girardeau, I left my camp post near Batesville on the 13th instant, and reached this place. Pitman's Ferry, on Current River, at State Line, yesterday evening, making 68 miles in three days. To-day will cross my command and trains and resume my march early tomorrow morning. My artillery and cavalry were ordered to remain in Arkansas.

ASBOTH, Brigadier-General, Commanding Second Division.

OCTOBER 27, 1862.- Skirmish at Pitman's Ferry, Ark.

REPORTS.

Numbers 1.- Major General Samuel R. Curtis, U. S. Army.

Numbers 2.- Brigadier General John W. Davidson, U. S. Army.

Numbers 3.- Colonel William Dewey, Twenty-third Iowa Infantry.

Numbers 1. Reports of Major General Samuel R. Curtis, U. S. Army.

OCTOBER 28, 1862.

Colonel Boyd reports further success in General Davidson's (southeast) district. Colonel Dewey, commanding Twenty-third Iowa, with detachment from his own and First, Twenty-fourth, and Twenty-fifth Missouri, with a section of Stange's battery, attacked 1,500 rebels at Pitman's Ferry on the 27th, killing several and taking over 40 prisoners. Our troops behaved well.

SAML. R. CURTIS, Major-General.

Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.

NOVEMBER 1, 1862.

General Davidson has furnished me Colonel Boyd's dispatch of 31st ultimo, showing that Colonels Dewey and Lazear formed junction in Arkansas and pursued the enemy in a running fight 15 miles. The pursuit extends to within 5 miles of Pocahontas. We have taken about 100 prisoners, who say they were ordered to attack Springfield and cut off Schofield's supplies. Still later dispatches from Lazear, dated Bollinger's Mill, Ark., October 31, say he has killed, captured, and dispersed 200 of Boone's command.

SAML. R. CURTIS, Major-General.

Major General H. W. HALLECK, Washington, D. C.

Numbers 2. Reports of Brigadier General John W. Davidson, U. S. Army.

HEADQUARTERS SAINT LOUIS DISTRICT,

Saint Louis, Mo., October 28, 1862.

COLONEL: I have the honor to report the continued success of the troops forming my division. Boyd says:

PATTERSON, MO., October 28, 1862-8 p. m.

Express just in from Pitman's Ferry. Colonel Dewey, commanding Twenty-third Iowa, with detachments of his regiment, of the Twenty-fourth and Twenty-fifth Missouri Volunteers, and of the First Missouri State Militia, with a section of Stange's battery, attacked 1,500 rebels, under Burbridge, at Pitman's Ferry yesterday, killing several and taking over 40 prisoners. Rebels made but slight resistance and fled on Yellville road. So far the new troops behaved like veterans.

This makes the ferry crossing perfectly safe for Lazear, crowning the two movements with entire success.

I remain, sir, your most obedient servant,

J. W. DAVIDSON, Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS SAINT LOUIS DISTRICT,

Saint Louis, Mo., October 31, 1862.

COLONEL: I have again to announce the continued success of the two expeditions under Lazear and Dewey, now combined under the latter officer. You may remember that I had sent a force of infantry under Dewey to cover Lazear's crossing at Pitman's Ferry. After Dewey's action with Burbridge at that point he formed junction with Lazear beyond the ferry on Current River, and continued the fight and pursuit of Burbridge to Bollinger's Mill, within 2 miles of Pocahontas.

Many officers of Burbridge's command have fallen into our hands; among them Colonel Greene, of Saint Louis, and Campbell, of Springfield. These officers state that they had Hindman's orders to fall in rear of Schofield by forced marches to Springfield and attempt to cut off his supplies. Dewey and Lazear are returning. Thus I think the southeast has kept pace with the southwest in enterprise. Our loss is small.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. W. DAVIDSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Numbers 3. Report of Colonel William Dewey, Twenty-third Iowa Infantry.

HDQRS. TWENTY-THIRD REGIMENT IOWA VOLS.,

Camp Patterson, Mo., November 2, 1862.

COLONEL: In accordance with your order of the 24th ultimo I left Camp Patterson at 6 o'clock in the morning of Saturday, the 25th, with three companies of my regiment (Twenty-third Iowa Volunteers), under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Kinsman; five companies of Twenty-fifth Missouri Volunteers, under Captain O. P. Newberry; two companies of First Missouri State Militia, and a section of Stange's battery, under Major Jaensch, and 18 men of the Twelfth Missouri Volunteer Cavalry, under Captain Leeper. At Morrison, 12 miles from this place, I was joined by three companies of Twenty-fourth Missouri Volunteers, under Captain Vaughan.

My instructions were to march for Pitman's Ferry, on Current River, which place I was to reach by 3 o'clock p. m. on Saturday, the 26th, form a junction with Lieutenant-Colonel Lazear, and attack any rebel force at that point. You informed me that Colonel Lazear had orders to meet me there at that time and co-operate with me. The first day I marched 26 miles, to Black River, which I reached at 4 o'clock p. m. I found the stream wide and deep and the crossing difficult, but I was determined to get the infantry and baggage train over that night. I placed the transportation of the troops in charge of Captain O. P. Newberry, of the Twenty-fifth Missouri, with orders to cross at all hazards. After an immense amount of labor the untiring energy of the captain was successful, and at 11 o'clock at night he reported all safely over, except the artillery and one company of the First Missouri State Militia, left to guard it. The next morning at daylight Captain Newberry commenced crossing the artillery. The ammunition was shifted from the caissons and transported in wagons and the whole train crossed in safety. I commenced the march from Black River at 8 o'clock a. m. Sunday, 26th, and reached Vandeer's after a march of 20 miles. A mile this side of Vandeer's my advanced guard of cavalry, under Captain Leper, drove in the enemy's pickets, all of whom unfortunately escaped and thus betrayed my advance. I now was 17 miles from Pitman's Ferry, and it was important to make a rapid march and gain possession of the boat. I accordingly detailed Lieutenant Buzard, of the Twenty-fifth Missouri, with 40 picked men to move rapidly forward with the cavalry and gain possession of the ferry. They started at 1 o'clock on the morning of the 27th, and at 2 I followed with the reserve body. The men marched without breakfast. Ten miles this side the ferry the advance guard surprised a scouting party of the enemy and captured a captain and 13 men. Leaving these prisoners under guard, they pushed rapidly forward and succeeded in surprising the guard at the ferry, which they dispersed by a volley from Lieutenant Buzard's men. Private Richard Lloyd, Company F, of the Twenty-fifth Missouri, swam the river and brought the boat over to this side. When about 2 miles from the river, at 8 o'clock in the morning, I received information that the great object of my anxiety, the ferry-boat, was safe in our possession. When a mile from the river a messenger brought me word that the enemy was forming line of battle on the other side. I immediately ordered the artillery forward at a gallop, the infantry regardless of their long and fatiguing march, following at a double-quick. I halted the column about 100 yards from the river bank and formed in line of battle on each side of the road. The right wing consisting of the Twenty-third Iowa, under Lieutenant-Colonel Kinsman; the center consisting of the artillery and the two companies of the First Missouri State Militia, under Major Jaensch, and the left consisting of the five companies of the Twenty-fifth Missouri, Volunteers, under Captain Newberry. The two companies of the Twenty-fourth Missouri acted as a reserve and guard to the prisoners under Captain Vaughan.

Riding to the front, Lieutenant Poser, commanding the artillery, informed me that the enemy were planting a battery on the other side. I ordered him to open upon them immediately, which he promptly did, and after a few rounds the enemy scattered and disappeared. I then ordered Lieutenant Millar, of the Twenty-first Missouri, to cross the river with his company and deploy as skirmishers and follow the enemy as far as practicable, and to guard his retreat I ordered Captain Houston, of Company A, Twenty-third Iowa, to form his company on the river bank near the ferry, leaving the rest of the command in line of battle. At 12 m. Lieutenant Millar returned and reported the enemy retreating. I had been for several hours anxious to learn the whereabouts of Lieutenant-Colonel Lazear and his command. Everything depended upon his co-operating with me. I knew that with my small force of infantry, exhausted by a long and fatiguing march and without food since the previous night, it was folly for me to attempt a pursuit. Lazear's route to join me led him directly across the road by which the enemy had retreated, and I waited in deep suspense for some intelligence from him or for some evidence of his presence. At noon I sent Leeper over the river with his 18 men to scour the country and try to gain intelligence of Lazear. After a fruitless search he returned without any tidings, and I reluctantly ordered the men to camp. They had performed a forced march of 65 miles, and had been twenty hours without food, without murmuring. They were still ready to go forward if there was any prospect of overtaking the enemy, but without Lazear cavalry pursuit would be useless. I had hoped that the sound of the cannonading would reach him and von to him tidings of my presence, but it did not. The next morning, 28th October, I sent Captain Houston, with his company, up the river, and Captain Rosenstein, with his company, down, both on this side, to explore the country and ascertain the position and practicability of the various fords. I also sent Captain Leeper, with such infantry as I could mount, over the river to explore the different roads leading to the ferry, with instructions to find Lazear if possible. About 11 o'clock I received a dispatch from Colonel Lazear, directed to you, of which the following is a copy:

OCTOBER 26-4 o'clock a. m.

Colonel BOYD: Yours of 7 and 10 o'clock 24th reached me at 10 o'clock last night. I cannot reach Pitman's Ferry and find out what is at Thomasville before 29th. Will be there then. We scattered Boone's men in every direction yesterday, killing 6 or 8; 18 prisoners, 25 guns, 12 horses. They are all broken up but Crow's company, who had gone east of Current River.

B. F. LAZEAR, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.

I immediately recalled the scouting parties and crossed my command, with the exception of the artillery and Captain Vaughan's men, over the river. Late in the evening I received another dispatch from Lazear by Lieutenant Going, informing me verbally that he was marching from the direction of Thomasville, on the Pocahontas, and would be ready to co-operate with me at any time after midnight. This road leads directly across the road to Yellville, by which the enemy retreated, and they had already passed the point of intersection at least thirty-six hours before. Of course pursuit was now useless, and I directed Lieutenant Going to rejoin Colonel Lazear, with orders to join me as soon as possible on the Pocahontas road. On the morning of the 29th I crossed the artillery over the river, and leaving Captain Vaughan to guard the ferry and the prisoners I marched toward Pocahontas, and formed a junction with Colonel Lazear at Bollinger's Mill, 15 miles from the ferry. I immediately ordered a detachment of 50 cavalry, under Major Lippert, to march to Pocahontas and search for horses and contraband goods. Major Jaensch accompanied the detachment. They dispersed a small scouting party, taking 8 or 10 horses, and found a number of rebel sick in a hospital, whom Major Jaensch paroled, and a list of whom accompanies this report. The next morning, October 30, I commenced my march back to Patterson, which point I reached at 6 o'clock p. m., November 2.

Too much praise cannot be awarded to the officers and men under my command in this expedition. They performed a march of 65 miles to Pitman's Ferry (the first day through a severe storm) in less than two days and a half, crossing a wide and deep stream. The last twenty hours they were on the march of 80 miles in four days, crossing two wide and deep streams.

I have no hesitation in saying that, had the force under Lieutenant-Colonel Lazear been able to co-operate with me by reaching the road to Yellville by which the enemy retreated at the time I reached Pitman's Ferry on the morning of the 27th, we would have routed the entire rebel force and captured the baggage train and artillery. This force I estimate, from reliable information, at 1,000 cavalry, 500 infantry, and four pieces of artillery, under command of Colonels Burbridge, Green, and Mitchell. It retreat toward Yellville, at which point I understood the enemy is concentrating a large force, and where they have a powder-mill in operation.

My thanks are especially due to the following officers detailed on special duty: To Captain Newberry, Twenty-fifth Missouri, for his efficiency in crossing the command over Black River; to Lieutenant Waterbury, Twenty-third Iowa, assistant adjutant; to Lieutenant Brown, Twenty-third Iowa, assistant quartermaster, and to Lieutenant Buzard, Twenty-fifth Missouri, commanding advanced guard of infantry.

Very respectfully, &c.,

WM. DEWEY, Colonel, Commanding. S. H. BOYD, Colonel, Commanding.

HDQRS SECOND MISSOURI STATE MILITIA CAVALRY,

Bloomfield, March 23, 1863.

SIR: I have the honor to report that, in accordance with your instructions, I left this post on the evening of the 19th instant, for the purpose of making a tour of reconnaissance west of the Saint Francis River. For this purpose, I took with me 75 men, 25 of whom I left at Williams' Crossing, on the Saint Francis River, under command of Lieutenant [J.] Donahoo, to guard two ferry-boats, one of which I captured on the Mingo, and the other at Punches' Crossing, on the Saint Francis, together with several canoes, all of which I floated won stream to the point above indicated, about three-fourths of a mile south of the junction of the Mingo with the Saint Francis River.

Shortly after daylight next morning, I crossed my party, arriving that evening at Poplar Bluff. Here we were enthusiastically hailed by the few inhabitants that remain, and who express more Union sentiment, and are more truly loyal, than any people I have yet met with in Southeast Missouri.

Aware of the small force at my disposal, and being now 40 miles from any support, I deemed it prudent to withdraw from town,and encamp at the foot of the bridge over Blackwater River, on the east side of the village, there holding a position that no enemy could well force. Not being able to ascertain any information relative to the reported advance of Marmaduke's army, I resolved to push still farther in the direction of Pocahontas, until I could meet his advance or capture his pickets, or strike his trail in case he had moved north.

About 1 o'clock next day [21st], I surprised a picket, consisting of 5 men, who fled at our approach. They were stationed about 20 miles from Poplar Bluff, at the junction of the Pitman's Ferry and Doniphan roads. I captured 3 of the pickets and killed and remaining 2. I will state that the two who were killed had good horses, and exhibited a degree of bravery worthy of a better cause. Being well mounted, myself and Captain [Perry D.] McClanahan, commanding Company C, of this regiment, soon took the lead of our men and each singled out his man and pursed him. Several pistol shots were exchanged during the chase, and not until we were within 3 miles of Doniphan could we get fairly up with them. Here my antagonist shot my horse, and at the same instant I killed his; both horses fell together, and we (my butternut friend and myself) rolled over and over, when he broke loose and attempted to get away on foot, but I soon caught him and put an end to the desperado.

At some little distance I found my friend McClanahan, standing over the remains of him he pursued. We were both exhausted,and had to wait until our party came up.

I must make special notice of Corporal Blurton, of Company B, for his zeal and bravery throughout.

From the pickets captured, I learned that Marmaduke's main force as still encamped in the vicinity of Batesville, and that Jeffer's Clark's, and Lewis' men were acting as his advance guard, making their regular reports to him, and being guided and instructed from his headquarters. One of the prisoners captured was lately from Little Rock, Ark., and seemed to have been acting in the capacity of postmaster, as the inclosed package of communications, found upon his person, will indicate.

The road from Bloomfield to the Saint Francis is tolerably good, passing over gentle ridges and plateaus, or glades, through which levees have been constructed, with the necessary culverts. A train of artillery, in good weather, could easily pass over, with some repairs being done to the bridge over Lick Creek. I would calculate the distance at about 18 miles. Forage very scarce.

From the Saint Francis to Poplar Bluff the roads are excellent, with the exception of about 1 miles through the Blackwater bottom, passing over a high, barren, and uncultivated ridge.

A couple of thousand bushels of corn might be collected at poplar Bluff from the farms on the Blackwater bottom. This is all an army could depend upon. I must be nearly 20 mils from Williams' Crossing, on the Saint Francis, to Poplar Bluff. From Poplar Bluff to Pitman's Ferry it must be about 35 miles, and about an equal distance to Doniphan. The roads are good and practicable for trains or artillery. But few cultivated farms, and forage very scarce.

The telegraph constructed by General Steele has been completely destroyed and strewn carelessly along the road. I had several horses thrown by it in the charge, and some of the riders seriously injured.

Before concluding this hurried report, I would state that, in the neighborhood of Pitman's Ferry, I found Saint Louis newspapers of a more recent date than we could obtain at Bloomfield, thus clearly demonstrating that the rebels are in direct communication with that city.

My command arrived safely at this post at 1 a. m., having been absent four entire days. We took with us but a limited supply of hard bread; marched 150 miles during that time without either tents of blanket, and during the entire trip I never heard a murmur.

I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

FRED. R. POOLE, Regimental AdjutantColonel JOHN McNEIL,Commanding Southeastern Expedition.

CAMP MARMADUKE, April 16, 1863.

Major HENRY EWING,

Assistant Adjutant- General:

MAJOR: Captain Surridge, who was lately at Doniphan, informs me that it will require a half day to cross the ford at that place, and that he thinks it unsafe to cross the ammunition. He suggests that the amminition and artillery be crossed at Pitman's Ferry, which would throw them on the east side of Current, 10 miles from Doniphan. If I find this to be the case, will it be objectionable to cross the ammunition at the ferry! I know the ford at Doniphan; it is bad, deep, and rapid. Captain S. also reports that there is no forage on the stubble field road; thinks the troops which have just passed over have consumed it. I can cross below Black's Ferry and make the necessary arrangements. Captain S. is further of the opinion that it will take me two days to put my command at Doniphan (crossing included).

Young has just notified my that he will be here during the day. Nothing from [W. J.] Preston. All of Jeffers' men (armed) are with him. In ordering me to report to a given point, you will please bear in mind that it will take me two days, or nearly two, to be at Doniphan.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

COLTON GREENE,Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

HDQRS. THIRD MISSOURI STATE MILITIA CAVALRY,

Pilot Knob, May 9, 1863.

GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of an engagement near Patterson, Mo., on the 20th day of April, 1863, between a portion of my regiment and the Confederate forces, under the command of Marmaduke. Having information from my spies and scouts that a large rebel force was moving into Missouri from Batesville, Ark., I kept my front as well picketed as my limited force would permit keeping scouting parties on Black River, at or near all the available fords on that stream, which was some 20 miles to the front of my post. The rebel force approached in three columns from the Doniphan, Van Buren, and Pitman's Ferry roads commanded, respectively, by Shelby, Greene, and Burbridge. They thus succeeded in capturing or cutting off my scouting parties, and preventing their communicating will me. Their immediate approach was not known until within 6 miles of Patterson, where they met and commenced an engagement with a scouting party, 20 in number, under the command of Captain Hunter. This party, making a strong resistance to their approach, compelled the enemy to commence a brisk cannonade. ....................

EDWIN SMART,

Colonel Third Missouri State Militia Cavalry.

PILOT KNOB, May 30, 1864

Lieutenant H. HANNAHS, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General:

Major Wilson telegraphs from Patterson that General McRae, with a force of not less than 600 men, is on the road to Patterson from Pitman's Ferry.

Gets the information from soldiers of Eleventh Missouri Cavalry paroled by McRae.

J. F. TYLER,Colonel, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WEST TENNESSEE,

Memphis, Tenn., September 14, 1864.

Major General H. W. HALLECK,

Chief of Staff, Washington, D. C.:

GENERAL: On the 10th instant a brigade of cavalry, supposed to be about 1,500, was at Pocahontas; another brigade, was moving up Black River on the west side, and were near Powhatan; while another force of about 3,000, under McCray, was moving on the east side of Black River. These men are all of Shelby's command. Price and Marmaduke crossed the Arkansas at Dardanelle eight or ten days ago, and will join Shelby unless the force sent from here shall be moved to intercept them, of which I think there is some prospect. That our troops will succeed in preventing a junction with Shelby is very probable, but that they will head off the raid is, in my opinion, extremely doubtful. While Shelby will probably enter Missouri near Pitman's Ferry, Price, to avoid our forces, will probably strike off toward Springfield. It he gets a day or two the start our forces can never overtake him, as he will consume everything in his line of march, and a pursuing force could not live. My information in regard to Shelby's position I consider entirely reliable, and my informant-a British subject that I employed to go within their lines, a man of great intelligence-says that there can be no doubt that they intend to invade Missouri. They expect on reaching there to receive a very large accession to their strength, and that the movement has been delayed by the non-arrival of General Price as soon as expected. I give you these facts for what they are worth. Major-General Forrest, with Chalmers' division, dismounted, left Grenada on the 5th instant, on the cars, for Mobile.

I am, general, your obedient servant,

C. C. WASHBURN, Major-General.

Links:

The Encyclopedia of Arkansas History and Culture