Report:
Crockett
in 2006
Colonel Stan Prater
Frontier Brigade
October 24th
Dear Sir,
I am writing to report on the recent actions of the 1st Battalion in eastern Texas. Per your desires, elements of the battalion converged near the hamlet of Crockett east of the Trinity River on Friday past. The small battalion of two companies was comprised of men from the 13th US, 173rd NYSM, 1st US, 77th PA, and Union Rifles. We were ably assisted by a mounted detachment from the 1st AR CoB.
A secure camp was selected and pickets thrown out. The men were drilled in preparation for further action. On Saturday, our pickets were engaged by cavalry. The camp was called to arms and the companies thrown out as soon as ready. Although the cavalry was initially driven off, it soon became apparent that we were vastly out numbered. Despite being outnumbered two to one, the men gave as good as they got. There is no doubt that we would have driven them from the field if it were not for the damned cavalry! They must have all been wearing those iron vests I’ve seen advertised in Harpers. Our most concentrated volleys had no effect; it was as if we were firing blank cartridges. Fortunately we were able to withdraw to our camp where we were able to hold our line behind a natural abatis. It soon became obvious that the seseech would not be able to carry the day and a parley was called. The result was the confederates withdrew and we were able to recover out wounded.
The next day I determined to take the fight to the enemy. Before doing so however, I endeavored to improve the moral and firing ability of the men by holding a musket firing competition. The competition was to fire three rounds as quickly as possible and using proper drill procedures. Most of the men participated with the four fastest competing for overall honors. The competition was so close that a final re-shoot was needed to accurately determine to winner. Pvt. Charles Oglesby holds the honor of the fastest shooter and his reward, in addition to bragging rights, is to be excused from al battalion duties the next time we take the field.
In the early afternoon, our forces moved out to clean out the nest of rebels in our midst. Moving by a circuitous route we first encountered a small force that tried to ambush us from a clump of trees. Deploying into a line of battle we routed this force. Forming a closed column of companies, we moved off to engage a large skirmish line. Redeploying we were driving the rebels from the field when a heavy infantry company supported by six artillery pieces appeared on our flank. We changed front to counter this new threat but were soon forced to retreat. Moving by the right of companies to the rear, we were able to re-establish our line once again behind a natural abatis. After a brief but spirited defense, we were determined to drive the enemy from the field or die trying by giving them the cold steel! The men moved out with a cheer and the élan displayed would have done any old soldier proud. We were successful in breaking the enemy’s will but at what a cost.
I wish to acknowledge the efforts of the men from the Union Rifles and 77th PA. Although small in numbers, their effort to come from their posts in Indian Territory to assist in our endeavors was much appreciated. Sgt. Michael Strange of the 173rd performed admirable service when the anticipated support from HQ was not forthcoming. His arrangements for supplies, both commissary and quartermaster ensured the success of our endeavors.
Finally, I enclose herein a sketche that I obtained from a reporter who accompanied the expedition.
Sir, I will use the next five weeks to rest and refresh the troops prior to taking the field in even greater numbers to support your efforts in northwest Arkansas.
I remain, re obedient servant,
Don Gross, Major, 1st BTN
Commanding
