Athens

BATTLE OF ATHENS – AUGUST 5, 1861

The most northern battle fought west of the Mississippi, further north than the Battle of Gettysburg. 

Forces Engaged: 1st NE Missouri Home Guard 350 vs. Gov. Jackson’s secessionist Missouri State Guard 2,000 

VISITOR INFORMATION
Stamp Location: Battle of Athens State Historic Site Park Office, when staff available.
Website: mostateparks.com/park/battle-athens-state-historic-site
Address: 12378 Athens State Park Rd. (County Road CC), Revere, Mo, 63465
Phone Number: 660-877-3871
Staff Available: See Stamp Site Locations/Hours
Visit Fee: None

Athens collage

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

ARTICLES ABOUT THE BATTLE OF ATHENS

Mr. Hall’s American History Class
http://karashall.blogspot.com/…/battle-of-athens-missouri.h…

McCrary, George W. “The Battle of Athens.” In War Papers and Personal Reminiscences, 1861-1865: Read before the Commandery of the State of Missouri, Vol. 1; Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, Becktold & Co. (1892): p. 169-176.

NEWSPAPER ARTICLES ON THE BATTLE OF ATHENS

Aug 9, 1861 · New York Tribune “Another Skirmish in Missouri–Attack by Rebel Plunderers” [Summary: A band of 1,200 rebels attacked Union men at Athens, Mo. Union forces were reinforced by Iowa troops. They were led by Martin Green, brother of Ex-Senator Green. More info on Dug Springs fight: The charge made by the Lieutenant probably prevented the rebels from attacking  Lyon‘s main body of men.]

Aug 9, 1861 · New York Tribune “The Latest War News” [Summary: Dug Springs fight in a nutshell. No loss on Union side. On Sunday, Lyon retired to Springfield.  There was a skirmish at Athens, MO. 1,000 to 1,200 rebels attacked a Union camp of 350. After an hour of fighting the rebels fled.  The Union troops, now reinforced pursued the rebels and more fighting is expected.]

Aug 20, 1861 · Missouri Republican “Fight in Northeast Missouri” [Summary: A Union force of 450 men encountered about 1,000 men under Martin Green, 20 miles west of Canton. The secessionists were completely routed, leaving five dead and many wounded.]

Aug 28, 1861 · New York Tribune “Missouri Rebels on the Run” [ Summary: Martin Green (Confederate), instead of attacking Athens is heading for the Missouri River, with Gen. Hurlbut in pursuit. Deserter from New Madrid says most of the men under Gen. Pillow (Confederate) are demoralized and only stay in hopes of taking St. Louis.]

Nov 3, 1889 · St. Louis Post-Dispatch “Unwritten History” [Summary: on the Battle of Athens]