Civil War fact of the day. On this day in 1864, with Taylors Confederates harassing Banks retreat toward Alexandria, Edmund Kirby Smith decided to move some reserve troops he was holding in-between the two fronts up to Arkansas. HEADQUARTERS In the Field, 15 miles from Camden, April 22, 1864. Major-General TAYLOR, Commanding District of West Louisiana: GENERAL: Finding that Banks was rapidly retreating down Red River below Natchitoches, while Steele had taken position in Prices front at Camden, I ordered Walker, who had been halted about 40 miles below on the Minden road, to move up to Prices support. Walker was too far off to join you before the enemy reached Alexandria. Steele cannot be left in his present position, strengthened by re-enforcements and supplies, without endangering the fruit of your victories below. He must be driven to fight or to retreat toward the Arkansas, where Fagan has done his work. Retreat to him is as disastrous as defeat. Did General Walker move below to Alexandria? Steeles retreat or advance on Shreveport were equally easy. With General Walkers command the one will be disastrous,the other difficult, if not impossible. Ultimate and substantial results, with a field for important military operations, is opened by the capture or dispersion of Steeles force. In both a political and military point of view everything is to be gained for the department by its accomplishment. If you are convinced that Banks is retreating to New Orleans, and you can leave Polignac or Wharton in command, I would suggest, that you repair here in person. I can place you on duty with your increased rank, and would feel that I had left the conduct of operations in safe hands. I have not received an answer to my letter of the 20th. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. KIRBY SMITH, General.
Posted on: Tue, 22 Apr 2014 13:18:37 +0000
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