When did the Battle of Palmito Ranch take place?
The Battle of Palmito Ranch occurred on the 12th of May 1865. This engagement took place near Fort Brown in southern Texas.
Questions about Battle of Palmito Ranch
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who commanded Union forces at the Battle of Palmito Ranch?
Union Colonel Theodore H. Barrett led the attack with troops from the 62nd U.S.C.T. Regiment and the 34th Indiana Infantry. Barrett had previously served as colonel of the 1st Missouri Colored Infantry since 1863.
What were the casualty figures for the Battle of Palmito Ranch?
Historian Jerry D. Thompson determined that Union losses totaled four killed, 12 wounded, and 101 captured during the battle. Confederate casualties included one killed, seven wounded, and 22 captured by the 2nd Texas Cavalry Battalion.
Why was the Battle of Palmito Ranch fought after the Civil War ended elsewhere?
Confederate Major General John G. Walker rejected a ceasefire agreement proposed by Union Major General Lew Wallace on the 11th of March 1865. Union Colonel Theodore H. Barrett ordered an attack on Confederate camps near Fort Brown despite the unofficial truce holding along the lower Rio Grande Valley.
Is the Battle of Palmito Ranch considered the last battle of the American Civil War?
Union Private John J. Williams of the 34th Indiana Infantry Regiment is believed to have been the last man killed during the engagement. This event occurred on the 12th of May 1865 before Confederate forces officially surrendered in June 1865.