The Civil War Muse

The Y Junction

Tour Stop

Directions: The Y Junction [ Map | Waypoint = N36 24.293 W94 09.393 ] is located near the intersection of State Highway 72 and Sugar Creek Road just northeast of Bentonville, Arkansas 72712.

• Leaving from the Bentonville Town Square proceed east on Central Avenue / State Route 72.

• After approximately 1.6 miles, you should see Blueberry Lane [ Waypoint = N36 22.432 W94 10.746 ] on the right (east) side of the street. According to the extensive research of Hess, Shea, Piston, and Hatcher in their Wilson's Creek, Pea Ridge, and Prairie Grove: A Battlefield Guide, with a Section on Wire Road (This Hallowed Ground: Guides to Civil Wa), this marks the beginning of the Bentonville Detour. Blueberry Lane follows the original roadbed of the detour, but dead ends because of the interstate highway so continue east on State Highway 72.

• Continue heading east State Highway 72 for 2.8 miles and stop at the intersection with Sugar Creek Road. It will be the first right after you cross Little Sugar Creek.

• Find a safe place to park.

Description: Just before turning onto Sugar Creek Road, you crossed a bridge over the confluence of Little Sugar and Brush Creeks. Now you are standing near where Union Brigadier General Franz Sigel and his rear guard continued to fight off Confederate Brigadier General James McIntosh's cavalry as the Federals withdrew to the federal fortifications on Little Sugar Creek.

 

 

There is a Historical Marker [ Waypoint = N36 24.293 W94 09.393 ] at this tour stop marking the location of Camp Stephens. Its text reads as follows:

“Named for Alexander H. Stephens, vice-president of the Confederacy, it covered land on Little Sugar and Brush Creeks extending eastward three miles from their confluence at this point. “

“Brig. Gen. Nicholas Bart Pearce established it in July, 1861 when he moved troops from Camp Walker to train the Third Louisiana. They moved to Cassville, Missouri, July 31, and fought in the Battle of Wilson's Creek on August 10th.”

“Soon after the Battle of Pea Ridge, Gen. Samuel R. Curtis moved to this camp 'to get away from the stench of the battlefield.'”

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