Burning of Osceola – Newspaper Accounts

The American Civil War, a brutal conflict that cleaved the nation in two, left an indelible mark on countless communities. The state of Missouri, a border state with divided loyalties, became a particularly fierce battleground. One such community that suffered greatly was the town of Osceola. This once-thriving hub, located in St. Clair County, found itself caught in the crosshairs of warring factions, culminating in its near-total destruction in September 1861. The Burning of Osceola serves as a stark reminder of the war’s devastating impact on civilian populations and the deep-seated animosities that fueled the conflict.

Before delving into the newspaper accounts that chronicled the Burning of Osceola, it’s essential to understand the immediate context. Following the Battle of Wilson’s Creek on August 10, 1861, a Union defeat, the Union army retreated, leaving the Kansas border vulnerable. In response, General James H. Lane, a controversial figure known for his staunch abolitionist views and aggressive tactics, organized his men to defend the area. Lane engaged Confederate General Sterling Price in the Battle of Dry Wood Creek on September 2, 1861. Though Lane’s forces were defeated, he continued his operations, leading his troops through several Missouri towns, including Papinville, Butler, Harrisonville, and Clinton, engaging in acts of pillaging and retribution. This campaign ultimately led him to Osceola on September 23, 1861.

At the time, Osceola was a prosperous town boasting a population of over 2,000 residents. It served as a vital commercial center for the surrounding agricultural region. However, with many of its able-bodied men away fighting for the Confederacy, the town was left vulnerable. Lane’s arrival marked a turning point, transforming Osceola from a bustling community into a smoldering ruin. The Burning of Osceola became a symbol of the brutal warfare that engulfed Missouri.

The fury generated by the events in Osceola resonated deeply with many Missourians and contributed to the escalating cycle of violence. It is said that the Burning of Osceola was one of the reasons for William Quantrill’s infamous raid on Lawrence, Kansas, two years later, on August 21, 1863, illustrating how actions in one location could ignite further conflict and retribution across the region.

The following accounts, drawn from contemporary newspapers, provide a glimpse into the events surrounding the Burning of Osceola and the perspectives of those who witnessed or reported on the destruction.

Osceola Burned by General Lane – New York Times, October 1, 1861

This brief dispatch, originating from Jefferson City on September 28, offers an initial, somewhat detached report of the Burning of Osceola. It relies on secondhand information, stating that a traveler passing through Osceola on Wednesday reported that General Lane had burned the central portion of the town. The stated reason for the destruction was that Confederate forces had fired upon Union troops from windows within the town. Notably, the report emphasizes that no National troops were present in the vicinity when the burning occurred, raising questions about the justification for Lane’s actions.

General Lane’s Success at Osceola – New York Times, October 5, 1861

This article, reprinted from the Leavenworth Conservative of September 28th, presents a contrasting perspective. It portrays Lane’s actions as a resounding success for the Union cause. According to O.A. Bassett, Esq., who arrived from Fort Scott, Lane’s "forced march upon Osceola" was "completely successful." The report claims that Lane dislodged a rebel force, burned the town to the ground, and captured an "immense supply train" belonging to Confederate Generals Rains and Price. This train was described as being "between two and three miles long," containing valuable supplies, equipment, and $100,000 in money. The article hails this victory as "the most important success gained for the Union cause in Missouri" and suggests that it helps to offset Union losses at Lexington.

Correspondence of the Missouri Democrat: Headquarters Kansas Brigade – New York Times, October 14, 1861

This more detailed account, originating from Kansas City on October 3, offers a more comprehensive narrative of the events leading up to and including the Burning of Osceola. The correspondent emphasizes that the expedition’s objective was to cut off the enemy’s retreat, seize their stores, and address other matters along the route. The account describes the advance column’s journey, including a brief skirmish at the Sac River, where a former Confederate Quartermaster named Harris was captured. Upon reaching Osceola, the Union troops were met with gunfire from the bushes and a log house. After returning fire and routing the enemy, the Union forces discovered a Confederate flag flying over the courthouse.

The courthouse, deemed a "temple of justice" turned "fortification of treason," was destroyed by artillery fire. A subsequent examination of the town revealed a large quantity of lead, powder, army clothing, and provisions. While Colonel Weir initially favored sparing the town, the counsel of Colonels Montgomery and Richey prevailed, and the "business portion" of Osceola was committed to the flames. The stated reasons for the destruction included the presence of Confederate supplies and the town’s perceived role as a stronghold of rebellion. The correspondent also notes the suffering of loyal citizens in the region, attributing it to the rebel army and its "marauding bands."

The Campaign In Missouri., etc. – New York Times, November 9, 1861 (Excerpt)

This excerpt from a letter by a special correspondent provides a fascinating glimpse into the personalities and motivations of key figures involved in the events surrounding Osceola. The correspondent recounts a meeting with General Lane at Humansville, describing a heated discussion between Lane and General Sturgis regarding the conduct of Union troops. Sturgis accuses Lane’s men of indiscriminate theft and violence, citing specific examples, such as the stealing of $8,000 from Mrs. Vaughn at Osceola and the taking of clothes from an old man’s grandchild. The correspondent portrays Lane as unrepentant, even amused, by these accusations. The correspondent also encounters Colonel Montgomery, who expresses his belief that the war’s primary objective is the emancipation of slaves. The correspondent concludes by noting the widespread terror inspired by Lane and Montgomery in Western Missouri and describing the devastation left in their wake, including burned homes and stolen property.

The Raid of Osceola, September 21, 1861 – Memphis Daily Appeal, April 13, 1862

This account, written by a resident of Osceola and published in a Confederate newspaper, offers a starkly different perspective. The author provides a detailed and emotionally charged narrative of the events of September 21, 1861, portraying the Union troops as "Kansas robbers" motivated by greed and a desire for revenge. The author describes Osceola as a town that had actively supported the Confederacy, raising a secession banner and sending men to enlist in the Confederate army. The author claims that the raid was driven by the promise of good pay, the presence of rich assortments of goods in local stores, and the existence of a branch bank with "glittering heaps" of money.

The author recounts the arrival of the Union forces, estimated at 5,000 men with artillery, and the brief resistance offered by a small company of 36 Confederate soldiers. The author describes the subsequent pillaging of the town, the destruction of stores, the burning of the courthouse and church, and the torching of private dwellings. The author also details the personal suffering of the residents, including the theft of property and the terrorizing of women and children. The account concludes with a passionate call to arms, urging Southerners to resist the "tender mercies" of the Union and to fight for the establishment of the Confederate States.

These newspaper accounts, while varying in their perspectives and details, paint a grim picture of the Burning of Osceola and its aftermath. They reveal the deep divisions within Missouri, the brutality of the Civil War, and the devastating impact of the conflict on civilian populations. The Burning of Osceola stands as a testament to the destructive power of war and the enduring legacy of violence and loss that it leaves behind.