Benton Barracks

Benton Barracks was a significant military installation during the American Civil War, located in St. Louis, Missouri. Established in 1861, shortly after the outbreak of the war, it played a crucial role in the Union Army's efforts in the Western Theater. The barracks were named after Senator Thomas Hart Benton, a prominent Missouri politician and staunch advocate for westward expansion.

History

The inception of Benton Barracks came in the wake of Missouri's strategic importance being recognized by both Union and Confederate forces. Missouri was a border state with divided loyalties, making it a critical area for control. The Union's objective was to secure Missouri and use it as a base for operations in the Western Theater, particularly along the Mississippi River and into the heart of the Confederacy.

Construction of Benton Barracks began in 1861 under the direction of General John C. Frémont, the commander of the Department of the West. The facility was built to accommodate over 30,000 troops, making it one of the largest military installations in the West at the time. It included barracks, training grounds, a hospital, and other essential military structures.

Role in the Civil War

Benton Barracks served multiple functions during the Civil War. It was a training camp for Union soldiers, many of whom were mustered into service and received their basic training at the facility. The barracks also acted as a supply depot, providing arms, ammunition, and other necessities to Union forces in the field.

One of the notable aspects of Benton Barracks was its hospital, which was among the largest military hospitals in the region. It treated thousands of soldiers for wounds received in battle, as well as diseases that were rampant in military camps at the time.

In addition to its military functions, Benton Barracks was a center for emancipation activities. Following the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln, the barracks became a refuge for escaped slaves seeking freedom. Many of these individuals enlisted in the Union Army, forming regiments of United States Colored Troops that trained at the facility.

Post-War and Legacy

After the Civil War, Benton Barracks was decommissioned and the land was eventually repurposed for other uses. Despite its significant role during the war, little physical evidence of the barracks remains today. However, its historical importance is commemorated through various markers and the preservation of records related to its operation.

The legacy of Benton Barracks is remembered for its contribution to the Union war effort, its role in the training and care of soldiers, and its impact on the lives of freed slaves. It stands as a testament to the complex history of Missouri during the Civil War and the broader struggle for control of the Western Theater.