Colonel Bourland: A Forgotten Figure from North Texas and Indian Territory during the Civil War

The American Civil War was a tumultuous time that shaped the nation's history. While many are familiar with the major players and battles that took place, there are often forgotten stories and individuals who played significant roles. One such figure is Colonel James P. Bourland, whose actions in North Texas and Indian Territory deserve recognition.

Background and Early Life

James P. Bourland was born in Tennessee in 1824. As a young man, he moved to Texas, settling in Fannin County. In the years leading up to the Civil War, Bourland established himself as a respected lawyer and began to engage in local politics. However, it was his military leadership during the war that would define his legacy.

Civil War Involvement

When the Civil War erupted in 1861, Bourland wasted no time in enlisting in the Confederate Army. He quickly rose through the ranks, earning the title of Colonel. Bourland's commanding presence and tactical skills made him a formidable leader.

Colonel Bourland in North Texas and Indian Territory During the Civil War: Fort Cobb, Fort Arbuckle and the Wichita Mountains: Fort Cobb, Fort Arbuckle and the Wichita Mountains During the Civil War

by Patricia Adkins Rochette(Kindle Edition)

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Colonel Bourland's sphere of influence primarily spanned across North Texas and Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma). His troops, comprised of Confederate soldiers and Native American allies, fought against Union forces as well as hostile Native American tribes who aligned themselves with the Union cause.

Conflict in Indian Territory

Indian Territory was a hotbed of violence and political turmoil during the Civil War. As a border region with a diverse population, it became a strategic battleground. Colonel Bourland and his men played a crucial role in defending Confederate interests in the area.

One of Bourland's notable achievements was his successful defense of Fort Smith, located in present-day Arkansas, against Union General James G. Blunt's incursion in 1863. The victory demonstrated Bourland's military prowess and his ability to rally troops under challenging circumstances.

Bourland's leadership was not limited to conventional warfare. He also spearheaded several campaigns against Native American tribes that sided with the Union. His efforts aimed to disrupt their supply lines, gather intelligence, and weaken their support to Union forces in the region.

Post-War Years and Legacy

After the Civil War, Bourland faced challenges as he transitioned to civilian life. However, his reputation as a skilled leader and staunch Confederate supporter earned him respect among his peers. He continued to influence regional politics and advocate for the rights of Southern sympathizers in North Texas.

Colonel Bourland's legacy in North Texas and Indian Territory remains significant. Despite being overshadowed by more prominent figures from the Civil War era, his strategic contributions, military victories, and dedication to the Confederate cause cannot be overlooked.

Today, numerous historical markers and monuments pay tribute to Bourland's achievements. His story serves as a reminder of the complex and often overlooked aspects of the American Civil War and the individuals who played unique roles in shaping the country's history.

Colonel James P. Bourland, a forgotten figure from North Texas and Indian Territory during the Civil War, deserves recognition for his military leadership, strategic achievements, and unwavering dedication to the Confederate cause. As we delve deeper into the history of this tumultuous time, it is vital to shed light on the often overlooked narratives that have shaped our nation.

Colonel Bourland in North Texas and Indian Territory During the Civil War: Fort Cobb, Fort Arbuckle and the Wichita Mountains: Fort Cobb, Fort Arbuckle and the Wichita Mountains During the Civil War

by Patricia Adkins Rochette(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	53714 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	4946 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

This book describes historical events during the civil war around North Texas and what was then called Indian Territory, now Oklahoma.

In April of 1863 the Texas Legislature granted $800,000 to the Confederates to recruit 18,000 soldiers to station them on the Red River. The two men in charge of the money were James G. Bourland, who was referred to as Colonel Bourland and William R. Hudson who was a Captain with the Texas State Troops. William R. Hudson, who called himself Brigadier General of Texas State Troops and Bourland, who called himself Colonel, both reported to U.S. Major General Samuel Bell Maxey.

This book identifies about 18,000 soldiers, from hand written records.

This work will prove valuable to any researcher or genealogist interested in finding information about their grandfathers who served between the beginning of the civil war to about 1865 with 243 militia listings and events in the area.

Included in this edition is a rare map of the area, copied from one of the two original maps owned by private citizens. One original was owned by Raymond Holcomb and the other original was owned by Ross Perot.

Volume I. Some of the soldiers listed in the 472-page Volume II are referenced in this 350-page Volume I. The 150-page
‘Name Index,’ the 20-page ‘Gazetteer,’ the 3-page ‘Recruits of East Texas sent to West Texas’ and the 1-page ‘Physicians
in the North Texas Militias’ are included in this book.

Additions and corrections sent to patriciaarochette@gmail.com will be corrected in the text and entered in the Name Index.

All of Patrica Adkins Rochette’s records will be given to the:
Stephens County Genealogical Society
301 North 8th Street
Duncan OK 73533