Parsons' Cavalry

Originally made up of men from Ellis and surrounding counties, this Civil War unit was organized for service at Rockett's Spring, 4 miles east of this site, in September 1861. It was trained and commanded by Col. William H Parsons, a Mexican War veteran, colorful duelist, editor, merchant, and lawyer. In a Confederate brigade, it served alongside the 12th, 19th, and 21st Texas Cavalry regiments, Morgan's Battalion, and Pratt's Battery, scouting and fighting in Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Indian Territory. It became famous for attacks on Federal ironclad ships during the Red River Campaign in 1864.

Waxahachie, Texas · United States