Back on October 9th, I mentioned this battle and that I didn't know anything about it. Just like that, Dale Cox in his Civil War Arkansas blog started doing a series of entries about it.
Even though it took place on Oklahoma, it had a big impact on Arkansas. It is also called the Battle of Elk Creek. The Union's victory there assured control of the Cherokee Nation and opened the door for Federal advances that led to the permanent possession of Fort Smith.
The battle took place July 17, 1863 along Elk Creek which flows through the Creek and Muscogee nations in Oklahoma. It is sometimes referred to as the "Gettysburg of the West."
Union general James Blunt learned of a Confederate assembly at Honey Springs Depot near Checotah and decided to strike Confederate General Douglas H. Cooper first. Blunt moved 3000 men and 12 cannons across the Arkansas River and attacked.
Both sides were multi-racial. Blunts army had white, black, and Indians. Cooper's had whites and Indians.
To see the original articles, go to http://civilwararkansas.blogspot.com. He ended up with 14 entries on the battle along with pictures. A whole lot of information on a little known, but important battle of the Civil War.
More to Come. Thanks Mr. Cox.--Old B-Runner
The Battle of Fort Fisher, N.C.
