Civil War Sites Advisory Commission

Battle Summaries

National Park Service

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For Additional Information: See Jenkins' Ferry in the "Choose Battlefield" Menu

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Jenkins' Ferry

CWSAC Reference #: AR016

Other Names: None

Preservation Priority: III.3 (Class C)

Location: Grant County

Campaign: Camden Expedition (1864)

Date(s): April 30, 1864

Principal Commanders: Maj. Gen. Fred Steele [US]; Gen. E. Kirby Smith [CS]

Forces Engaged: Department of Arkansas [US]; Army of Arkansas [CS]

Estimated Casualties: 964 total (US 521; CS 443)

Description: Maj. Gen. Fred Steele's forces retreated from Camden after being mauled at Marks' Mills and Poison Spring. On the afternoon of April 29, the Union forces reached Jenkins' Ferry and began crossing the Saline River, which was swollen by heavy rain. Rebel forces arrived on the 30th and attacked repeatedly. The Federals repulsed the attacks and finally crossed with all their men and supply wagons, many of which they were compelled to abandon in the swamp north of Saline. The Confederates bungled a good chance to destroy Steele's army, which after crossing the river, regrouped at Little Rock.

Result(s): Union victory in retreat

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Original Source: http://www2.cr.nps.gov/abpp/battles/ar016.htm

Last Updated: 2/26/1996

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(Source: Civil War Sites Advisory Commission Report: Battle Summaries, published by the National Park Service.)