Bent & Ward Houses - Kansas City, Missouri
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iconions
N 39° 01.695 W 094° 36.100
15S E 361360 N 4321131
This marker is located to the west of the historic Bent and Ward House located at 1032 West 55th St.
Waymark Code: WM711Z
Location: Missouri, United States
Date Posted: 08/17/2009
Views: 4
The text of the marker:
The brick house in the rear was owned by Wm. Bent, fur trader. On Sun., Oct. 23, 1864 heavy fighting occurred here. After Union Gen. Curtis flanked the Confederate line by coming up a ravine (Rockwell Lane) his troops were a few rods north of the house. The Confederate line was defended by portions of Jackman's and Thompson's Brigades of Shelby's Div. At about noon the Confederates were pushed back to 55th Street. They withdrew south at 1:00 p.m.
Go east on 55th; left on Summit; right on 51st to the Sunset Hill School.
Donated by the Westport Historical Society
Further background on this part of the Battle of Westport from the Civil War Muse:
(
visit link)
After following Thoman, Curtis and his escort (including the 9th Wisconsin Battery) ended up close to where you are now standing (just south and west of the Bent farmhouse). Curtis had now outflanked the Confederate position (next tour stop) to the left and rear of Shelby's Division. The 9th Wisconsin Battery unlimbered and opened fire on the enemy. The Confederates were totally surprised. Shelby's line fell back from the crest and across the little south valley. Collins' Battery (Tour Stop 9) turned to fire at the 9th Wisconsin Battery.