Arkansas in Union Army

Arkansas also sent a good many of its sons to the Union armies. They went chiefly from the northern counties, after that section was occupied by General Samuel R Curtis’ federal command, in 1862. However, as Union control of the state was extended with the capture of Arkansas Post and Little Rock by the North, in 1863, there was some enlistments in the federal forces from Pulaski county and other points roundabout. In all, Arkansas raised for Northern service a total of 8,789 soldiers.

Bombardment of the Arkansas Post by Union Fleet on January 11, 1863.  Submitted to the Harper's Weekly by an unknown artist, who claimed it was drawn "on the spot."

To the Confederacy Arkansas furnished scores of brave and brilliant officers, as well as a host of stout troops. One of the illustrious number was General Patrick Ronayne Cleburne, whose names shines as a star among the ablest of Southern commanders. Historical writers credit him with saving the battle for Bragg’s army at Missionary Ridge. There was Gen. Thomas C. Hindman, too, who wrote his name high among Southern leaders in eastern campaigns.

General Thomas C. Hindman

Helena has the proud distinction of having along given four generals to the Southern cause. They were Lucius E. Polk, A.S. Dobbin, James C. Tappan and C.C. Adams.

And another Confederate general was the daring and picturesque Albert Pike, whose name and deeds sparkle through the early history of the state. Though he was born in Boston, Pike had only one loyalty when the war came, and that was to Arkansas and the South. The Confederate government assigned him to command of the Indian country, west of Arkansas and north of Texas. His task was to attach the Indians to the Southern cause.

General Albert Pike

Pike, accepted by the Indians, as a friend, succeeded in his mission. His remarkable mind, which seemed able to master anything he attempted, gave him a fluent command of the Indian’s speech. He was around 50 when he went to the Indian country, a great and impressive bulk of a man, handsomely bearded, with a noble brow and a dignified yet jovial air. He made a patriarchal figure among the Indians, as they gathered about the tent where he sat writing, or the council fire where addressed them, their gaze fixed respectfully – and a little awed – on his kindly face and imposing form.