The 3rd Wisconsin Cavalry was organized in January 1862 and marched to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, after which its three battalions were stationed throughout the state. Before fighting at Honey Springs, the regiment saw action in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas. The battalion engaged at Honey Springs was commanded by Capt. Edward A. Stevens and consisted of Companies C, G, I, and M, with a section of two 12-pounder mountain howitzers attached in support. During the battle, Stevens's command formed on the right about 10 a.m. and advanced toward the enemy at the edge of the timber, while part of the battalion moved farther right to flank them. The howitzers opened fire on enemy troops posted behind a rail fence at the edge of a cornfield, and these movements forced them to fall back on their center. Stevens then dismounted part of his command, skirmished through the woods, captured 8 prisoners with their arms, and followed the enemy through the timber.