Pea Ridge
Elkhorn Tavern
Civil War Arkansas


American Civil War
March 6-8, 1862

On the night of March 6, Major General Earl Van Dorn set out to outflank the Union position near Pea Ridge, dividing his army into two columns.

Learning of Van Dorn's approach, the Federals marched north to meet his advance on March 7. This movement compounded by the killing of two generals, Brigadier General Ben McCulloch and Brigadier General James McQueen McIntosh, and the capture of their ranking colonel—halted the Rebel attack.

Van Dorn led a second column to meet the Federals in the Elkhorn Tavern and Tanyard area. By nightfall, the Confederates controlled Elkhorn Tavern and Telegraph Road.

The next day March 8, Major General Samuel R. Curtis, having regrouped and consolidated his army, counterattacked near the tavern and, by successfully employing his artillery, slowly forced the Rebels back. Running short of ammunition, Van Dorn abandoned the battlefield.

The Union controlled Missouri for the next two years.

Result(s): Union victory

Location: Benton County

Campaign: Pea Ridge Campaign (1862)

Date(s): March 6-8, 1862

Principal Commanders: Major General Samuel R. Curtis [US]; Major General Earl Van Dorn [CS]

Forces Engaged: Army of the Southwest [US]; Army of the West [CS]

Estimated Casualties: 5,949 total (US 1,349; CS 4,600)

Kindle Available
Wilsons Creek

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Pea Ridge Arkansas March 7, 1862


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Battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, 6th-8th March, Engraved by Kurz and Allison
Battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, 6th-8th March
Engraved by Kurz and Allison

24 in. x 18 in.
Buy at AllPosters.com
Framed   Mounted

Civil War Battle Map Pea Ridge Arkansas

Click for full size Map

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Sources:
U.S. National Park Service
U.S. Library of Congress.