Welcome to the Battle of Island Mound State Historic Site, a place where history resonates with the echoes of courage and change. Nestled in the rural expanse of Bates County, Missouri, this site marks the location of a significant Civil War battle that unfolded on October 28-29, 1862. This battle was a watershed moment in American history, as it was the first time African-American troops engaged in combat against Confederate forces.
The Union forces, primarily composed of the 1st Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry, faced off against a larger contingent of Confederate guerrillas and the pro-Confederate Missouri State Guard. The Union troops, many of whom were formerly enslaved individuals from Arkansas and Missouri, fortified the Toothman homestead, dubbing it ‘Fort Africa.’ This name symbolized their fight for freedom and equality.
Led by Captain Andrew Armstrong, the Union forces demonstrated remarkable bravery as they engaged in fierce skirmishes with the Confederate guerrillas. Despite being outnumbered, these African-American soldiers held their ground, repelling multiple attacks and forcing the Confederates to retreat. The battle was more than just a military engagement; it was a statement of resilience and determination by men who had once been denied their basic human rights.
Although the battle was relatively small in scale, its implications were profound. It challenged the prevailing attitudes of the time and paved the way for the wider acceptance of African-American soldiers in the Union Army. News of their ‘desperate bravery’ reached the War Department in Washington D.C., highlighting their pivotal role in the struggle for freedom.
Today, the Battle of Island Mound State Historic Site serves as a place of reflection and education. The Courage Trail, a half-mile path around the site, offers visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of these brave soldiers. Interpretive exhibits provide insight into the battle’s significance and the broader context of the Civil War.
This site is part of the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area and the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, underscoring its importance in the narrative of the American struggle for equality and justice. As you explore, remember the courage of those who fought here and the enduring legacy of their actions.
