Engagement At Choctaw Bayou

After completing the bridges across Phelps and Clark Bayous, Col. J. Keigwin started for Hard Times on the Mississippi River on April 28, 1863. A cavalry patrol was sent to see if it could locate Maj. I.F. Harrison's Louisianians. The Union cavalryman called for help, and Col. Keigwin marched his entire command to their assistance. During the ensuing engagement, both sides used artillery, but the Federals, having rifled artillery, enjoyed an advantage. After one hour, Harrison's Louisianians fell back to St. Joseph. Not wishing to bridge another stream, Keigwin decided not to follow, and retracing their steps, the Federals headed for Hard Times.

Louisiana · United States