St. Charles Battle Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
St. Charles Battle Site
|
|
The White River near St. Charles
|
|
 Location in Arkansas
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Jct. of AR 1 and the White River, St. Charles, Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Area | 9 acres (3.6 ha) |
| Built | 1862 |
| NRHP reference No. | 74000465 |
| Added to NRHP | December 2, 1974 |
The St. Charles Battle Site is a special place near St. Charles, Arkansas. It's where an important fight happened during the American Civil War on June 17, 1862. This battle was unique because it involved both soldiers on land and ships on the river!
Contents
What Happened at St. Charles?
A Battle on Land and Water
The Battle of St. Charles was a mix of land and naval fighting. It took place on the White River. Ships called gunboats from the Union army faced off against Confederate soldiers and their own gunboats.
The Fight Begins
Union gunboats fired at Confederate defenses along the riverbanks. At the same time, Union soldiers landed on the west side of the White River. Their goal was to attack the Confederate positions from land.
Confederate Forces Retreat
The Union infantry fought hard and eventually pushed the Confederate forces away from their river defenses. This battle was a key part of the Union's plan to control the White River during the war.
The Site Today
Where the Battle Took Place
The battle site covers about 9 acres (about 3.6 hectares). It's located on the west bank of the White River, southeast of St. Charles.
A Natural Landscape
Today, you won't find any signs of the old Confederate defenses. The area looks much like it did in 1862. It's mostly undeveloped swampland, showing how nature has reclaimed the battlefield.
Remembering the Past
A Historic Landmark
The St. Charles Battle Site is recognized as an important historical place. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. This helps protect the site for future generations.
A Monument to History
To remember the battle, there is also a special monument in the town of St. Charles. It stands as a reminder of the events that happened here during the Civil War.
See also
