The next morning, Union troops returned to Newtonia and, by 7 am, had engaged the rebels who began calling in reinforcement, many of them recent recruits. The Federals gave way and retreated in haste just as some of their reinforcements helped to renew the attack, particularly threatening the enemy right flank. But newly arrived Confederates eventually forced the Federals to retire again. Union gunners posted artillery in the roadway to halt the pursuit which continued until after dark. As Confederate gunners observed the Union artillery fire for location, they fired back, creating panic. The Union retreat turned into a rout as some ran all the way to Sarcoxie, more than ten miles away.

Significance. Although the Confederates won the battle, they were unable to maintain themselves in the area given the great numbers of Union troops. Most Confederates retreated into northwest Arkansas. The 1862 Confederate victories in western Missouri did not restore and secure a regular Confederate presence anywhere in the state.

Additional Sources. See Newtonia.

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From here, consult the Newtonia Bibliography, return to an account of the the Fall 1862 Invasion of Arkansas & Missouri or to the Fall 1862 Overview.. Or you can go back to the index for the Civil War Online Study Guide or back to Lause's Links.

These pages are under continual construction. Your feedback to Mark Lause is greatly appreciated.

 

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