PEA RIDGE — Brigadier General Albert Pike was commissioned a brigadier general and negotiated several treaties between the “Five Civilized Tribes” and the Confederate States, stating that the Indian regiments would only be used for the defense of the Indian Territory. Prior to Pea Ridge, Pike’s “Indian Brigade” had about 1,000 soldiers. The brigade played a limited role on the Leetown battlefield, protecting the Confederate right flank. After ambushing a company of the 3rd Iowa Cavalry, they came under fire from Federal artillery, which disorganized and scattered the Indian Brigade.
Their service at Pea Ridge was noted for its propaganda value more than any military worth. Pike Street in Pea Ridge runs east and west at the north end of North Curtis Avenue.
Photographs needed - To submit a photograph for the historical feature, send it to The TIMES of Northeast Benton County, P.O. Box 25, Pea Ridge, AR 72751, or e-mail to [email protected] with any pertinent information. All photographs will be returned.
Community, Pages 5 on 05/05/2010