Important Arkansas historical events and significant anniversaries for August 12, with notable births and deaths of people with Arkansas connections for this date. Information is drawn from state archives, historical societies, contemporary newspapers and other media archives, and legal records. Much of this information comes from the Encyclopedia of Arkansas, an online publication. ChatGPH has collected this data.
The Third Arkansas Infantry Regiment (African Descent) was formally organized at St. Louis, Missouri, on August 12, 1863. Its companies were sent to Helena as they were mustered into federal service. The regiment, composed primarily of formerly enslaved Black men, initially performed extensive fatigue and construction work before later serving as the Fifty-sixth United States Colored Infantry.
During a Union campaign against Confederate Gen. Joseph Shelby, federal commander Brig. Gen. Joseph R. West had hoped to move troops and artillery across the White River. Heavy rain, the absence of promised steamboats and the danger of attack made the crossing impractical. On August 12, 1864, West ordered troops already on the eastern side back across the river and withdrew toward Searcy…