Franz Sigel – Page 3 – The Civil War Months

From David Ash, 37th Illinois

Letter from David Ash, Company B, 37th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, three days after the Battle of Pea Ridge.

Demoralized Federal troops begin a long retreat out of southwestern Missouri after their defeat at Wilson’s Creek.

Federals not only suffer a second major defeat within a month, but they lose an army commander as well.

Opposing forces inadvertently advance upon each other in southwestern Missouri, setting the stage for a battle.