First Battle of Lexington

The soldier in our Civil War - a pictorial history of the conflict, 1861-1865, illustrating the valor of the soldier as displayed on the battle-field, from sketches drawn by Forbes, Waud, Taylor, (14576181978)

Flag of the Missouri State Guard

Flag of the Missouri State Guard

Anderson-house

Siege of Lexington hospital map

Siege of Lexington map

First Battle of Lexington

The First Battle of Lexington, also known as the Battle of the Hemp Bales, was a significant engagement during the American Civil War. It took place from September 13 to September 20, 1861, in Lexington, Missouri. The battle was part of the larger Missouri Campaign and was a notable victory for the Confederate States of America.

Background

The state of Missouri was a key strategic location during the Civil War due to its geographical position and resources. The state was deeply divided, with both Union and Confederate sympathizers. The Missouri State Guard, led by Major General Sterling Price, aimed to secure Missouri for the Confederacy. In contrast, the Union forces sought to maintain control over the state.

Prelude to Battle

In the summer of 1861, Major General Sterling Price led the Missouri State Guard in a campaign to capture key locations in Missouri. After a victory at the Battle of Wilson's Creek, Price turned his attention to Lexington, a strategically important town on the Missouri River. The town was defended by a Union garrison under the command of Colonel James A. Mulligan.

The Battle

The battle began on September 13, 1861, when Price's forces arrived in Lexington and began to lay siege to the town. The Union defenders, numbering around 3,500, fortified their positions in the Masonic College building. Price's forces, estimated at around 12,000, surrounded the town and cut off the Union supply lines.

One of the most notable tactics used during the battle was the use of hemp bales by the Confederate forces. The bales were soaked in water to make them resistant to fire and were rolled forward as mobile breastworks. This innovative tactic allowed the Confederates to advance on Union positions with minimal casualties.

After several days of intense fighting, Colonel Mulligan was forced to surrender on September 20, 1861. The Union forces were taken prisoner, and the Confederates gained control of Lexington.

Aftermath

The First Battle of Lexington was a significant victory for the Confederacy and boosted the morale of Confederate sympathizers in Missouri. However, the victory was short-lived, as Union forces would later regain control of the region. The battle demonstrated the strategic importance of Missouri and the determination of both sides to control the state.

Legacy

The First Battle of Lexington is remembered for its unique tactics and the bravery of the soldiers involved. The site of the battle is now preserved as the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site, which includes a museum and interpretive trails.

Related Pages

• American Civil War
• Missouri Campaign
• Battle of Wilson's Creek
• Sterling Price
• James A. Mulligan
• Battle of Lexington State Historic Site