Hot and deadly

One constant factor of the Civil War in Missouri was that the Confederate guerrillas or foxes were always looking for a fight and they usually found one.

The guerrillas or bushwhackers, if you are of the northern or Kansas persuasion, were almost always successful when they were on the offensive, either from an ambush or direct attack. However, as the war went on, the Union Missouri Hounds became very adept at tracking, trailing and attacking Confederate foxes on the march or in their camps. The following after action report is located on Pages 686+ 687 in Series I, Vol. 22, Part I Records of the Official records of the War of the Rebellion and describes a very successful hunt by the Union "Missouri" Hounds!

"Hdqrs. Co. H, 7th Mo. S.M. Cav.,

Syracuse, Mo., Nov. 1, 1863.

Colonel: I have the honor of submitting to you the following report of a "fight" which took place between a portion of my command and a company of rebel bushwhackers, under Lieut. Col. Wilhite, on Monday the 5th of October last, about 10 miles from this place:

On the morning of the 5th ultimo, I learned that a company of rebels had passed Syracuse about daylight. I at once ordered out 30 men and started in pursuit; discovered their trail about 1 mile from town. Followed it some distance, when we found that their tracks scattered through the woods. I then ordered half of my men to dismount, at the same time dismounting myself and followed the scattering tracks through the thick brush for about 10 miles, keeping the cavalry about 100 yards in our rear. Came up with them about 2 p.m., when we surprised them with a volley from our rifles. I then ordered a charge, which was done in splendid style by my men, killing several of the rebels. They (the rebels) then fell back, in confusion, some 60 or 80 yards. I then ordered the horses forward, but seeing the rebels forming their line rapidly, I made another charge, on foot, within five paces of their line, pouring a "hot and deadly fire" into their ranks from our revolvers. I again ordered the horses forward, mounted and into line on the double-quick. During this time the rebels had crossed a small ravine and had again formed in line. I ordered the third charge, which was successfully made by breaking their line. They then fell back in confusion and continued firing while retreating. Chased them through the woods, scattering them in every direction. I kept all my men in line until I saw that the rebels were so scattered that it was impossible for them to make another stand. I then deployed them and searched the woods till night came on and darkness prevented further action. Camped out that night about a half a mile from where we had the fight. Two of my men slightly wounded. the rebel loss was 12 killed; several were also wounded, but managed to make their escape. A number of horses were killed and wounded on both sides. My horse was shot in the head and shoulder and my saddle was struck with some buckshot.

Among the trophies of our victory was a large rebel flag (the same, I sent you and by you taken to General Brown); four horses; a number of shot-guns and revolvers; a quantity of new boots, clothing and other articles, as well as some confederate uniforms.

Among the killed on the rebel side were Lieutenant-Colonel Wilwhite and a captain, whose name I did not learn. They belonged to Jackman's band of outlaws and Guerrillas and numbered 61.

On the following morning (Tuesday) I ordered the citizens to bury the dead, which was promptly done.

I still have with me the black boy formerly belonging to Lieutenant Colonel Wilwhite. He appears to be a smart lad.

My men fought bravely and great credit is due them for the gallantry and courage displayed on that occasion. I feel proud of my command and commend them, Colonel, to your good graces.

With much respect, I remain, your obedient servant,

R. M. Box,

Captain, Co. H, 7th Mo. S. M., Cavalry."

"Headquarters,

Tipton, Oct. 9, 1863.

Sir: On Monday morning last a detachment of Co. H, 7th M.S.M. Cavalry, of 30 men, under Captain R. M. Box trailed about 60 guerrillas into a thick brushy hollow, near Syracuse, Mo.: vigorously attacked them, regardless of the disparity in numbers and soon put them to flight. 12 guerrillas were killed and four wounded, generally mortal shots; seven or eight horses, fully equipped were captured; also a large lot of old and new clothing and several pieces of un-manufactured cloth. These were a part of Jackmans' men from Howard; supposed to have been under him. It is currently reported that a Colonel Eades from Cooper County, Mo., was one of the killed. These guerrillas were evidently on their way to join Jo Shelby in his present raid into this state. Many of them were in Federal uniforms and finely armed, having a double barreled shot-gun and from two of five Colt revolvers.

Captain Box and his fearless men deserve credit for the brave and manly manner they attacked and defeated the rebel chief and gang, who have so often boasted that Federals were afraid of them. As General Brown is absent in the field, I will make this report directly to your headquarters.

T.T. Crittenden

Lieut. Col. 7th M.S.M Cav., Comdg. 2nd Sub- Mil. Dist."

And, the war went on!