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The Battle of Elkin's Ferry

April 3-4, 1864 in Okolona, Arkansas
Camden's Arkansas Expedition

Union Forces Commanded by:
Maj. General Fred Steele
Forces Killed Wounded Captured
8,500 est. 5 33 -




Confederate Forces Commanded by:
Brig. General John S. Marmaduke
Forces Killed Wounded Captured
7,500 est. 18 50 -



**Missing and Captured
Conclusion: Union Victory

BATTLE SUMMARY

Maj. Gen. Fred Steele had the 3rd Division of the VII Corps and 2 cavalry brigades under his command. Brig. Gen. John S. Marmaduke had 3 cavalry brigades under his command.
During the Camden Expedition, the Union forces had to ford the Little Missouri River because all of the bridges were impassable. The Union forces reached Elkin's Ferry before the Confederates, but on April 3, they were attacked by Brig. Gen. Joseph O. "Jo" Shelby's cavalry.
On April 4, Marmaduke's cavalry attacked the Union forces as they were trying to cross the river because other roads were impassible. The Union forces were able to fend off both of these attacks and then cross the river. The Confederates attempt to stop them were to no avail. Losses on both sides in the Battle of Elkins' Ferry were light.
On the evening of April 4, Shelby's brigade joined Marmaduke, and together they withdrew 16 miles south to Prairie D'Ann the following morning
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