Description: |
Brig. Gen. John S. Marmaduke’s expedition into Missouri reached Ozark, where it destroyed the
Union post, and then approached Springfield on the morning of January 8, 1863. Springfield was an important
Federal communications center and supply depot so the Rebels wished to destroy it. The Union army had
constructed fortifications to defend the town. Their ranks, however, were depleted because Francis J. Herron’s
two divisions had not yet returned from their victory at Prairie Grove on December 7. After receiving a report on
January 7 of the Rebels’ approach, Brig. Gen. Egbert B. Brown set about preparing for the attack and rounding up
additional troops. Around 10:00 am, the Confederates advanced in battle line to the attack. The day included
desperate fighting with attacks and counterattacks until after dark, but the Federal troops held and the Rebels
withdrew during the night. Brown had been wounded during the day. The Confederates appeared in force the next
morning but retired without attacking. The Federal depot was successfully defended, and Union strength in the area
continued. |