Camp Defiance facts for kids

Camp Defiance was a temporary army camp in eastern Kansas, U.S. It was built during the American Civil War (1861–1862). This camp was set up after a town called Potosi was attacked. Potosi is near the Kansas-Missouri border.

Why Camp Defiance Was Built

Attack on Potosi

In December 1861, a town named Potosi in Kansas faced an attack. The attackers were Confederate guerrillas. These were soldiers fighting for the Southern states. They were not part of the regular army.

Setting Up the Camp

After the attack, Colonel James Montgomery took action. He was a leader of the Kansas 3rd Regiment. He moved his troops about 4 miles (6 km) northeast of Potosi. This new camp was named Camp Defiance. It was officially set up on December 17, 1861.

Location and Natural Defenses

Camp Defiance was located just inside the Kansas border. It was on the south side of a place called Mine Creek. Mine Creek was very important for the camp's safety.

Mine Creek's Protection

Mine Creek created a natural defense on the north side of the camp. The water and steep banks made it hard for anyone to cross. Neither people nor horses could easily get through. Today, the area is covered with many trees. It also had some timber when the camp was active.

Life at Camp Defiance

Camp Buildings

Most of the soldiers at Camp Defiance lived in tents. Very few permanent buildings were constructed. Dr. Joseph H. Trego was stationed at the camp. He noted that a mill was present. About 7,000 board feet (16.5 cubic meters) of lumber was used. This lumber helped build stables and mess tables. It was also used for floors inside some tents. Instead of a guardhouse, the camp had a guard tent.

Number of Soldiers

The camp likely had more than 2,500 soldiers. Many men from the Lane Brigade were present there.

Challenges at the Camp

Life at Camp Defiance had its difficulties. Keeping order among the soldiers was a major problem. Some soldiers from the Lane Brigade caused trouble with local people. Many soldiers in the camp also became ill. The troops often lacked important supplies. They were short on tents, clothing, and weapons.

Abandoning the Camp

By March 1862, a decision was made to close Camp Defiance. The last soldiers left the camp around March 20, 1862.