Curtis' army soundly defeated Van Dorn's. [2] These funds led to the construction of the stone archway at the park entrance, a wooden bandstand, and gravel driveway around 1925. Questions for Reading 2 Using Setting the Stage, complete the following exercises. Courtesy of Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park. Battle of Prairie Grove, December 7, 1862, Shea, p. 114 numbers the Confederate force at "roughly" 12,000; yet in the article that Shea wrote about the battle, in Heidler and Heidler, "Encyclopedia of The American Civil War", p. 1558, Shea states the number at 11,000; Josephy, p. 364 states number at "11,300 and 22 cannons"; Eicher, p 392 and Faust, p. 599 state the number at 11,000; Kennedy, p. 148 states c. 11,000; Christ, p. 36 states the number as "approximately" 9,000, Prairie Grove Confederate order of battle, Springfield-Greene County Library District, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Battle_of_Prairie_Grove&oldid=1162761785, Battles of the American Civil War in Arkansas, Battles of the Trans-Mississippi Theater of the American Civil War, Union victories of the American Civil War, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 4.0. On Dec. 7, 1862, Union forces from the Army of the Frontier and Confederates from the newly formed Army of the Trans-Mississippi clashed on the open corn, wheat, and hay fields of Prairie Grove, Arkansas. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Federal Identification Number (EIN): 54-1426643. Park officials were able to quickly repair the damage and removed the built-on addition. Footsore Yankees advanced across open corn, wheat, and hay fields in the valley to face the Southern foe. The families were ordered west to the first cellar, which was Morton's. The Battle of Prairie Grove fought on December 7, 1862, was a strategic Union victory and the last major Civil War engagement in northwest Arkansas. The park was added to the state park system in 1971 in a joint effort among Governor Dale Bumpers and state legislators Morriss Henry, Hugh Kincaid, and Charles W. Stewart. How could you find out? Draw an arrow labeled "Blunt--U.S.A." to show the attack of this Union force. Nine-year-old Caldonia Borden would later remark, Well we lived over it, but I dont have any love for a Yankee.. Historic Events Associated with the Civil War Please contact the park for reservations and more information at 479-846-2990 or, The Borden House: Restoring a Battlefield Icon, Top 10 Ways to Stay Cool at Arkansas State Parks, Teacher Guide to Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, Jordan Creek Trails at Historic Cane Hill. The Confederates counterattacked after each Union assault, only to be thrown back by the northern cannons on the north side of the Borden cornfield, which devastated the rebel regiments as they came out of the woods into the open farm fields in the valley. [57][50] Fagan and Shelby led their men further on towards Herron's main line, and the two brigades were joined by a third under Emmett MacDonald. 5. One soldier's leg was just hanging by the skin and the doctor cut it off and threw it outside. Over the course of late 1965 and early 1966 the Viet Cong (VC) and the PAVN intensified their military threat along the DMZ. Compiled by the Duke Special Collections Library, Civil War Women is an on-line manuscript collection which documents women's experiences in the Civil War. Of the army's two infantry divisions, one was commanded by Daniel M. Frost and the other by Francis Shoup. [52] An abortive Confederate counterattack was then driven off by Herron's artillery. Departing Boston on 25 May 1704 with 500 provincial . Standard 2B- The student understands the social experience of the war on the battlefield and homefront. After Arkansas seceded from the Union, Southern forces won the initial battles in this area. Weer was forced to retreat, and Parsons began a counterattack. It was made possible by the National Park Service's American Battlefield Protection Program. Men stood and sat around all night with their guns in their hands talking about the fight. All available beds and bedding was used for the wounded except one bed they left for mother and the children but very few of us slept any. At that location he would first crush Herron's force, then swing around and smash Blunt. Why or why not? What are two things you know from your research that your interviewee misremembered or did not mention? [35] The Confederate commander might have attacked Herron at once with Frost's powerful division. By December 6th, Hindman reached the Morrow Farm east of Cane Hill with the intent to strike on Blunt. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park's structures and landscapes prove history happened here and reveal stories of our heritage. The fighting continued as long as the soldiers could see. [3] The Prairie Grove Airlight Outdoor Telephone Booth, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is opposite the entrance to the park on Highway 62. It was edited by Kathleen Hunter, an education consultant working in Hartford, CT and the Teaching with Historic Places staff. After compelling him to tell them what they wanted to know, they brought him back into the house and ransacked everything in the house, carrying off what paper money he had and destroying some notes. The area of this district was increased in 1992 to 65.8 acres (26.6ha) and then again in 2005 to 707.8 acres (286.4ha). [1], On December 23, Blunt learned that Schofield was on his way to rejoin the army and take overall command. Reading 3 was excerpted from an oral history of Nancy Morton Staples, quoted from a manuscript written by Mrs. The Rebels established their line of battle on a wooded high ridge northeast of Prairie Grove Church. The Confederates had to leave many of their dead on the field, in piles and surrounded with makeshift barriers to keep feral pigs from eating the corpses. Dismayed by the arrival of Blunt to the northwest, Hindman orders the remainder of his army lead by General Frost north to the ridge. It is composed of 8 departments, 25 districts ("arrondissements"), 317 townships ("cantons") and 1281 towns ("communes"). The Battle of Prairie Grove: Civilian Recollections of the Civil War by Jack Schnedler | June 29, 2021 at 1:50 a.m. State park markers sum up the Battle of Prairie Grove on Dec. 7, 1862. Nature began to reclaim the surrounding landscape and the iconic structure was about to be lost forever. Paris | Definition, Map, Population, Facts, & History | Britannica The men clear the road in less than an hour, and just before 1 o'clock Murphy's battery splash across the new ford. Families hunted safety in the cellars. Battle of Prairie Grove State Park - University of Arkansas 4) To consider how events related to the Civil War affected communities across the country. On September 14, 1978, Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park completed its first expansion, successfully acquiring the Borden House and the surrounding property. How would you compare the tone of the three accounts? Put it in a movie, of course! Holmes replied that two-thirds of his troops were in northwest Arkansas to oppose a Federal threat. For the next hour, Herron deploys the 3rd division on the east side of the river while his staff searches for another way to cross the Illinois. Following the war, the Bordens returned to Prairie Grove and built a new house, almost an exact replica of the old one, on the original foundation. This attack was also defeated, as the combined fire of Herron's artillery and the survivors of Orme's brigade broke the Confederate assault. The opposing forces had previously fought several minor engagements in Missouri and Arkansas. Caldonia Ann Borden Brandenburg was nine years old when the Battle of Prairie Grove raged around her family's home on the southeast side of the battlefield. A museum was constructed following a bequest by Biscoe Hindman, the grandson of Major-General Thomas C. Hindman who commanded the 1st Corps, Trans-Mississippi Army, during the battle. The southerners lined up along the Prairie Grove ridge, stretching from the Borden House to the Morton House. [35] Confederate forces reported 1,317 casualties, including 164 dead, 817 wounded, and 336 missing. How long was it before Caldonia's memories were written down? Curtis' army soundly defeated Van Dorn's. The violence of the Civil War affected families throughout the United States. By 10:00am Blunt had gotten his division marching north on Fayetteville Road. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park is nationally recognized as one of the most intact American Civil War sites. The materials listed below either can be used directly on the computer or can be printed out, photocopied, and distributed to students. PRAIRIE GROVE -- The secretary of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism last week committed to holding a second public meeting before any decisions are made on what to do with . [1] While the fighting was inconclusive, the Confederate withdrawal gave the Union a strategic victory. Questions for Reading 1 [17], The Confederate army present at Prairie Grove was the 1st Corps, Trans-Mississippi Army, commanded by Hindman. Where did the Borden family go once the battle began? Gen. James Blunt remained in the northwestern part of Arkansas, and the second under Brig. 3. Reenactments actually started right in the middle of the war as opposed to after it was all over. [23][24] Holmes tried to dissuade Hindman from his plan to attack Blunt and the two generals engaged in an argument over the telegraph. An addition was built on to the western portion of the house for use in a battle scene. Gen. Francis Herron was stationed around the Missouri capital of Springfield. They fought through and around the house, the shots flying like hail in every direction, only a few cannon balls striking close. Love this park - Review of Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park Well, in March of 1864 one day the Yankees ran onto two of the Southern boys and the only thing the boys could do was to run as they weren't armed. Arkansass largest Civil War battle re-enactment takes place here biennially (even-numbered years) the first weekend in December. Curator Corner: 1-5 p.m., Sunday, July 9. If possible, arrange with the local or school library to present the exhibit for the public. The le-de-France is a province of France encompassing the north-central departments of Val-d'Oise, Seine-et-Marne, Seine-Saint-Denis, Ville-de-Paris, Hauts-de-Seine, Val-de-Marne, Essonne, and Yvelines.It is bounded by the regions of Picardy (Picardie) to the north, Champagne-Ardenne to the east, Burgundy (Bourgogne) to the southeast, Centre to the south, and Haute-Normandie to the northwest. [58], Wickersham's 1,600 Union cavalry reached the battlefield, followed at 3:15pm by Blunt with his staff and escort. [18] Hindman's command was formed of four divisions: one of cavalry, two of infantry, and a mixed reserve division. Firings will take place on the hour beginning at 11 a.m. Meet at the Dogtrot House. [2], The portion of the state park within a 64-acre (26ha) triangle formed by North Road on the northwest and Highway 62 was first listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. Just before 4:00 o'clock, Blunt's canons open fire on the western side of the ridge. Four died that night. It was maintained by the UDC as a meeting spot and in commemorations of the battle for almost 50 years. [16] Blunt's division was known as the "Kansas Division", as many of the soldiers in the division were from Kansas. This battle marked the last major Civil War engagement in Northwest Arkansas. All the implements we had were an old hoe and pieces of boards. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or even pets, Vrbo vacation homes have the best amenities for hanging out with the people that matter most, including outdoor grills and BBQs and swimming pools. Wickersham's mistake turned out to Blunt's advantage because it brought his division to the battlefield by the least obstructed route. They choked my mother for screaming and abused us for looking out of the window. He believed that the nearest Union forces were near Springfield, but what he did not know was that Blunt anticipated the Confederate offensive and that Union reinforcements were approaching. Recognized nationally as one of America's most intact Civil War battlefields, Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park protects the battle site and interprets the Battle of Prairie Grove, where on December 7, 1862, the Confederate Army of the Trans-Mississippi clashed with the Union Army of the Frontier in a day of fierce fighting resulting in about 2,700 casualties. Blunt sent William R. Judson with 400 cavalry and two M1841 mountain howitzers up the Cove Creek Road. First Battle of Manassas Discover a selection of 283 vacation rentals near Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, Prairie Grove that are perfect for your trip. Visit Website Or call (479) 846-2990 or email prairiegrove@arkansas.com for more information [39], When Hindman's army started north on Cove Creek Road, Monroe's 400 Confederate horsemen were left at Reed's Mountain to deceive Blunt, while Hindman's main force proceeded against Herron. The reserve division was commanded by John S. Roane, and was poorly equipped, organized, and led (Holmes stated that Roane was "useless as a commander"). [38] After directing the deployment of Frost's troops, Hindman returned to Prairie Grove. By 1:00pm Blunt's division reached Rhea's Mill where the soldiers rested. A messenger from Blunt soon alerted Herron that his division was coming. [25] By December 1, Hindman had gathered between 11,000 and 12,000 troops near Van Buren. We were left with hundreds of wounded and dead. Both met along the high ground near Prairie Grove, halfway between Fort Smith and the Missouri border. We knew them, they were our neighbors and it was a half a mile to their house, so an old man and a woman helped four of us kids move the bodies. On that fateful Sunday, the Borden family was just sitting down for breakfast, when suddenly, they were forced to flee their home at the unexpected onset of the Battle of Prairie Grove in their own front yard. 2) three readings from eye witness accounts of the battle and its aftermath; The Confederate commander knew that marching back to Van Buren would demoralize his soldiers, so he changed his plan. Marmaduke's division was poorly armed. The questions should elicit information that will help them discover what this event meant to the person. Dred Scott decision [4], A Civil War reenactment is held at the state park during the first weekend in December of even-numbered years. We had 60 bushels of wheat stored upstairs and it slowly burned for three weeks in the rubble. What clues help you determine this? The Yankees took our good horses and a beautiful big bay mare, a fine pacer, our work horses and saddle horses and left us only an old oxen and an old blind mare, but she was still a good plow horse and we bred her to a good stallion and got a fine colt. You and your leashed pup can enjoy a walking tour of the battleground, a driving tour of the park, and many other opportunities to enjoy nature's beauty. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, Prairie Grove | Roadtrippers What does the person remember about the circumstances leading up to the event? "Hindman's Grand Delusion". The unpopular Totten's departure pleased his soldiers and Daniel Huston Jr. assumed command of the 2nd Division. Dedicated on May 31, 1964, the museum is named Hindman Hall. In addition, Confederate forces suffered from severe demoralization and lost many conscript soldiers during and after the campaign to desertion. Who else was involved and what were their roles? He had lain there all night when Eliza and Mary Borden, Martha Butler and myself got there. Why or why not? Students can explore primary sources such as newspapers, letters, diaries, photographs, maps, military records, and much more. This is her account: Why does this seem ironic? Around midnight, Hindman's men slip away quietly on Cove Creek Road with the wheels of their artillery wrapped in blankets to muffle the sound of their retreat. [21] At this time, Union forces menaced the Confederate stronghold of Vicksburg, Mississippi. Donations to the Trust are tax deductible to the full extent allowable under the law. Witness to the Battle of Prairie Grove, as a child. The Valley of the Shadow The battle secured northwestern Arkansas for the Union . By nightfall Monroe's troopers occupied that terrain feature on the road to Newburg. It is considered one of the most important battlegrounds in the history of the US Civil War and . Have students determine what war memorials or grave sites for regiments, individuals, or battles exist in their community. The Latta house and associated outbuildings is a period style home originally owned by John and Jane Latta that was dismantled and moved to the park in the 1950's. Both homes are an excellent representation of Civil War period architecture. The Commission dedicated the impressive structure in 1965. . Historic artifacts help illustrate the many stories of Prairie Grove Battlefield. (You might consider each woman's age during the war, when their accounts were written, the level of detail, and the degree to which the speaker seems to take a particular side.) On Monday [December 8, 1862], we saw four houses burn to the ground that was set on fire by the Federal troops. Helped by the fact that many Confederates wore captured blue uniforms, Shelby's troopers surprised and routed their opponents, especially the 7th Missouri. The activities will also help students understand the devastation of civil wars and how communities memorialize victims. The battle's fiercest fighting took place near the Borden House. On your next visit to Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, enjoy a walk to the Borden House and experience firsthand the stories these walls can tell you. While tactically indecisive, the battle secured the Union control of northwestern Arkansas. We didn't have time to pray and when we had time we were too tired, but God took care of us. Well, we lived over it but I don't have any love for a Yankee. Students should prepare ahead of time a list of questions for the interview. . Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park - Camping The Confederate artillery attempted to respond, but their cannons were of inferior quality and lacked the range to properly respond. Another shocking affair was my helping to bury Mr. Borden, a brother of A[rchibald] Borden, who was brutally killed in the Pittman lane. Unfortunately, the explosion was larger than expected and damaged the original house. What is the overall impression it provides? How do you think the battle and movement of troops affected the homes and lands noted on the map? 8-9am Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park - Land Conservation Assistance Network Late that evening however, Hindman received news that Herron's relief column was nearing Fayetteville, indicating that Herron had made the trek from Springfield in 3 days. It commemorates the Battle of Prairie Grove, fought December 7, 1862, during the American Civil War. This is her memory of the battle: For a valuable resource on the Civil War, visit the University of Virginia's Valley of the Shadow Project. They should research the event through online sources, text books, newspapers, or other resources at a library or local historical society. The maps and images appear twice: in a low-resolution version with associated questions and alone in a larger, high-quality version. Washington County, AR | Dec 7, 1862 Nine months after their victory at Pea Ridge, the Union Army of the Frontier in the area was geographically divided. Plans to restore the structure began immediately. After a brief skirmish, they return to the ridge on the west side of the river. [51] After the repulse of Bertram's attack, some of Orme's men joined in the fight, only to be driven off. The Library of Congress created a selected Civil War photographic history in their "American Memory" collection. Click any thumbnail image to view a slideshow, City of Prairie Grove What would you have taken with you if you had been forced to hide in a cellar during a Civil War battle? The Southern Homefront gives a comprehensive perspective about the lifestyles and attitudes common to families across the South. He dragged her all over the room and the baby got scared and screamed so loud that Ma had to turn loose. Using a dictionary, look up the definition. [16] The risk was that Hindman might be caught between the two Union forces if Blunt found out what was happening. On December 3rd, Hindman departed Fort Smith with 11,000 men and marched for Blunt's army. Prairie Grove is recognized nationally as one of America's most intact Civil War battlefields. He and Marmaduke begin to get their men into formation. Then have them record an interview with a relative or neighbor who was involved in some way with this event. Arkansas's largest Civil War battle reenactment takes place at Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park . [note 1] The Confederate infantry and artillery moved out of their camps on December 3. --Mrs. Julia West Pyeatt Witness to the Battle of Prairie Grove, as a child Julia West was fourteen years old when she viewed the carnage and destruction of the battle at Prairie Grove, Arkansas. Hindman parried Blunts advance but was unable to make any further progress against Herron. The Confederates responded to the abortive Union assault with another counterattack, using several of McRae's brigade. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park vacation rentals - Vrbo P. O. Although the vast majority of battles occurred in a limited part of Confederate-controlled territory, troops were recruited from all of the states and territories. What to know Come out on December 3rd and 4th to witness battle reenactments on the historic battlefield, walk through Union, Confederate, and civilian camps, and enjoy living history programs. [32] That afternoon, James C. Monroe's Confederate cavalry brigade, supported by other units, skirmished with the 2nd Kansas Cavalry on Reed's Mountain. Just after 5:00the Confederates launch one final attack to try and win the day but were driven back. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nine months after their victory at Pea Ridge, the Union Army of the Frontier in the area was geographically divided. Huston and his troops press the ridge and encounter the Rebels in the fatal Borden orchard. Typical questions might include: In what way was this person involved? The second Rebel counter attack marks the end of the battle on the east side of the ridge. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park protects the battle site and interprets the battle there, the last major Civil War engagement in northwest Our FREE Virtual Teacher Institute is the can't miss online educator event of the summer. Just after 3 o'clock, Herron orders a second counter attack on the ridge led by Colonel Huston. The Battle of Prairie Grove was a battle of the American Civil War fought on December 7, 1862. After dark, it got quiet and we came out of the cellar. Standard 2A- The student understands how the resources of the Union and Confederacy affected the course of the war.