Battle of Bayou Bourbeux facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Bayou Bourbeux
Part of the American Civil War
Attack on the Sixtieth Indiana. Frank Leslie, artist
Date November 3, 1863 Location St. Landry Parish, Louisiana Result Confederate victory
Belligerents
United States of America	Confederate States of America
Commanders and leaders
Stephen Burbridge	Thomas Green
Units involved
XIII Corps	Green's Division
Strength
1,625	6,000
Casualties and losses
26 killed, 124 wounded, 566 missing	22 killed, 103 wounded

The Battle of Bayou Bourbeux was an important fight during the American Civil War. It happened on November 3, 1863, in southwestern Louisiana. This battle is also known by other names, like the Battle of Grand Coteau. It took place near a place called Carencro Bayou.

This battle was fought between soldiers from the Union Army and the Confederate States Army. The Union forces were led by Brigadier General Stephen G. Burbridge. The Confederate soldiers were commanded by Brigadier General Thomas Green.

What Happened at Bayou Bourbeux?

This battle was part of the American Civil War, which was fought between the Northern states (the Union) and the Southern states (the Confederacy). The war was mainly about slavery and states' rights. The Battle of Bayou Bourbeux was a smaller but important part of the fighting in Louisiana.

The Confederate Attack

On November 2, 1863, Confederate Brigadier General Thomas Green got new orders. Major General Richard Taylor told him to attack a Union camp. Green's forces grew stronger when three new groups of infantry soldiers joined him. These soldiers were led by Colonel Oran M. Roberts.

The Confederates attacked the Union camp on November 3. They surprised the Union soldiers. The fighting was intense.

Union Resistance and Casualties

The Union soldiers fought hard to defend their position. However, the Confederates had more soldiers. The battle ended with a Confederate victory.

After the battle, the Union reported their losses. They had 26 soldiers killed and 124 wounded. A larger number, 566 soldiers, were captured or went missing. The Confederates reported fewer losses. They had 22 soldiers killed and 103 wounded.

A Hero's Actions

During the battle, a brave soldier named Lieutenant William Marland showed great courage. He was part of the 2nd Massachusetts Battery. For his actions in this battle, Lieutenant Marland was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. This is the highest award for bravery a soldier can receive in the United States.