Battle of Elkin's Ferry Facts

April 3–4, 1864

Elkins' Ferry Battle facts, including dates, location, casualties, leaders, who won, and more interesting facts you might not know. This fact sheet provides a quick overview of the battle and is for kids doing research and students preparing for the AP U.S. History (APUSH) exam.

Portrait of Frederick Steele

Union forces commanded by Major General Frederick Steele (pictured here) defeated Brigadier General John S. Marmaduke’s cavalry at the Battle of Elkin’s Ferry during the Camden Expedition in southwestern Arkansas in 1864.

Date:

  • April 3-4, 1864

Location:

  • Nevada County, Arkansas
  • Clark County, Arkansas

Campaign:

  • Red River Campaign (Camden Expedition)

Principal Union Commander:

  • Major General Frederick Steele

Principal Confederate Commander:

  • Brigadier General John S. Marmaduke

Union Forces Engaged:

  • VII Corps (Department of Arkansas)

Confederate Forces Engaged:

  • District of Arkansas (Marmaduke’s Cavalry Division)

Estimated Union Losses:

  • 30 wounded

Estimated Confederate Losses:

  • 68 (50 killed, 18 wounded)

Result:

  • Union Victory