Skirmish at Ashley's Mills facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Skirmish at Ashely's Mill
Part of the Trans-Mississippi Theater of the American Civil War
Date September 7, 1863 Location Pulaski County, Arkansas Result Union victory
Belligerents
United States	Confederate States
Commanders and leaders
John W. Davidson	Robert C. Newton
Units involved
7th Missouri Cavalry	5th Arkansas Cavalry
Casualties and losses
None reported	1 Killed, 3 Wounded, 2 Captured

The Skirmish at Ashley's Mill was a small battle during the American Civil War. It happened on September 7, 1863, in Arkansas. This fight was between soldiers from the Union Army and the Confederate States Army. It was also known as the Skirmish at Ferry Landing.

What Was the Skirmish at Ashley's Mill?

A skirmish is a quick, small fight between parts of armies. This particular skirmish took place as Union forces were trying to capture the city of Little Rock, Arkansas. It was an important step in their plan to take control of the area.

Who Fought in This Small Battle?

The Union side was led by General John Wynn Davidson. He commanded the cavalry, which are soldiers who fight on horseback. General Davidson sent a group called the 7th Missouri Volunteer Cavalry Regiment to lead the way.

On the Confederate side, the soldiers were from the 5th Arkansas Cavalry Regiment. They were temporarily led by Major John Bull. Their job was to guard a crossing point on the Arkansas River near Little Rock.

Why Was This Skirmish Important?

The Union cavalry's goal was to clear the way. They needed to move the Confederate soldiers out of their path. If they could do this, it would open up the route east of the river. This route was crucial for the Union Army's bigger plan.

The Union soldiers successfully forced the Confederates to retreat. This victory helped the Union Army continue its advance. It set the stage for a larger battle, the Battle of Bayou Fourche, which happened just three days later on September 10, 1863.

The Outcome of the Fight

After the Union victory at Ashley's Mill, the path to Little Rock was open. The Union Army, led by General Frederick Steele, was then able to capture Little Rock.

In this skirmish, the Confederate regiment had some losses. One soldier was killed, three were wounded, and two were captured. The Union regiment, however, reported no casualties at all. This made it a clear win for the Union forces.