In the annals of American military history, Doniphan’s Expedition stands as a testament to endurance, strategic brilliance, and the rugged determination of volunteer soldiers. This remarkable campaign, a key component of the Mexican-American War, saw Colonel Alexander W. Doniphan lead his Missouri volunteers on an epic journey that spanned thousands of miles and secured vital territories for the United States. Originating in May 1846, Colonel Doniphan, a prominent lawyer from Liberty, Missouri, was tasked by Governor Edwards to raise troops in the state’s western counties for volunteer service in the escalating conflict with Mexico.
Within an astonishingly brief period, Doniphan successfully recruited eight companies of men. These companies were swiftly organized at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, forming the distinguished First Missouri Mounted Volunteers. This regiment was incorporated into the larger Army of the West, under the command of the esteemed General Stephen W. Kearny. After several intensive weeks of training, the Army of the West began its significant march towards Santa Fe, New Mexico, on June 26, 1846. Their arrival in Santa Fe on August 18 was a bloodless triumph, as they entered the city without firing a single shot, effectively securing New Mexico for the American cause.
The Navajo Campaign: Securing the Western Frontier
As the conflict progressed, Colonel Doniphan received further crucial orders in November 1846. He and his regiment were directed to proceed into the country of the Navajo Indians, located on the western slopes of the Rocky Mountains, with the mission to quell any aggressive actions and establish peace. This was no easy task, as his soldiers endured formidable conditions, toiling through snow that was three feet deep on the crests and eastern slopes of the mountains.
Despite the severe challenges, Doniphan executed this movement with remarkable swiftness and efficacy. His strategic negotiations led to the successful conclusion of a satisfactory treaty with the Navajo, ensuring stability in the region. Having accomplished this vital objective, Doniphan returned with his men to the Rio del Norte. There, his regiment was able to collect and refresh themselves, preparing for their next critical assignment: a rendezvous with General John E. Wool.
The Chihuahua Campaign: A Series of Brilliant Victories
December 1846 marked the beginning of another audacious phase of Doniphan’s Expedition as he and his men moved south, pushing deeper into Mexican territory towards Chihuahua. What followed was a rapid succession of military triumphs that underscored the regiment’s fighting prowess. Doniphan secured brilliant and decisive victories at the Battle of Brazito and, perhaps most notably, the Battle of Sacramento. These engagements were crucial in paving the way for the capture of Chihuahua, a significant strategic prize.
The Battle of Sacramento is particularly renowned for its extraordinary circumstances. Colonel Doniphan’s vastly outnumbered men bravely attacked a heavily fortified position held by Mexican troops, who outnumbered them by nearly five to one. Historical accounts praise the charge at Sacramento, with one writer declaring that it
