Marks' Mills Battleground State Park facts for kids
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Marks' Mills Battleground State Park
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Marks' Mills Battleground State Park
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 Location in Arkansas
Location in the United States
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| Location | Cleveland County, Arkansas |
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| Nearest city | Fordyce, Arkansas |
| Built | 1961 |
| NRHP reference No. | 70000119 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | January 21, 1970 |
| Designated NHL | April 19, 1994 |
Marks' Mills Battleground State Park is a special place in Arkansas. It helps us remember an important battle from the American Civil War. This park is located where Arkansas Highway 8 and Arkansas Highway 97 meet, just north of New Edinburg, Arkansas. It protects part of the land where the Battle of Marks' Mills happened on April 25, 1864. This battle was a big part of the Camden Expedition, a series of events during the war. The park is also one of nine historic spots that together form the Camden Expedition Sites National Historic Landmark, which means it's a very important historical place for the whole country.
What Happened at Marks' Mills?
This park is shaped a bit like an uneven square. It sits right where two highways meet. You'll find picnic tables under tall pine and oak trees. The area still looks a lot like it did in 1864, with thick trees and plants. There are special markers at the park that tell the story of the battle.
The Battle of Marks' Mills was fought between two groups of soldiers. One group was the Union Army, led by Maj. Gen. Frederick Steele. They were traveling from Camden to Pine Bluff to get supplies.
The other group was a Confederate force, led by Maj. Gen. James F. Fagan. They had set up a defensive position at the road junction. They were waiting for the Union soldiers.
The battle was a big win for the Confederates. They captured about 2,000 Union soldiers. They also took four cannons and 240 empty supply wagons. This battle was a major setback for the Union during the Camden Expedition.
Why is This Park Important?
The park helps us understand a key moment in the Civil War. It shows how important battles were in the Trans-Mississippi Theater. This was the area west of the Mississippi River.
The park was officially recognized as a National Historic Landmark District in 1994. This means it's a place of national historical importance. It helps future generations learn about this part of American history.
