Battle Overview
The Battle of Prairie Grove, fought on December 7, 1862, during the civil war unfolded as Confederates of the Trans-Mississippi led by General Thomas C. Hindman sought to fight and destroy the union forces that were led by General James Blunt and General Francis Herron.1 A division of troops led by James G. Blunt was posted in northwestern Arkansas after winning in the Battle of Cane hill on November 28. Hindman pursued Blunts forces in Cane Hill before they could join their forces together. On his way he collided with Herron and his men around Prairie Grove. And was forced to take a defensive position in Prairie Grove.
Hindman had 11,000 men in his army and Herron had 7,000-strong Union reinforcements that shifted the balance of the war.2 Herron tried to attack Hindmans lines twice but Herron was beaten both times with heavy casualties. Hindman responded to these attacks with his own attack which did not work. Later in the day, Blunt made his attempt in the fight and eventually it resulted in a tactical draw but it depleted the confederate resources. The terrain was characterized as rolling hills, wooded areas, and open fields which affected visibility and mobility.
The Confederates exceeded 1,400 casualties, and had about 164-204 dead. The Union forces surpassed 1,200 casualties, which included about 175 dead.3 The engagement ended in darkness with the confederates holding high ground at Prairie Grove, but Hindman, low on ammo, was forced to retreat to Fort Smith. The Union Forces claimed a strategic victory which secured control of northwest Arkansas which prevented the confederates from achieving their objectives in the region and it prevented confederate dominance.
American Battlefield Trust. “Prairie Grov - December 7, 1862” n.p., 2019
History. “ 1862 Battle of Prairie Grove, Arkansas” n.p., 2009
Encyclopedia of Arkansas. “Battle of Prairie Grove” Last updated June 16, 2023
Written By: Joey Bertacini