Approaching Marks Mills from the south, General Joe Shelby's Missouri Division was ordered to move right to block the Marks Mills to Mt Elba Road and prevent Union forces from escaping across the Saline River. Guided by William Marks, Shelby's forces completed this detour and intersected the Mt Elba Road 5 miles east of Marks Mills. A portion of the force proceeded east and engaged the Union guard at Mt Elba, securing it for the Confederates. Meanwhile, Shelby's main force turned west to engage the Federal advance guard and forced it back into the main battle at Marks Mills.