A brief history of the Tenth Michigan Cavalry

The Tenth Michigan Cavalry rose from the determined efforts of Congressman F. W. Kellogg in the summer of 1863, gathering men from towns across the state. Its officer corps read like a roll call of veteran leaders, many of whom had already earned distinction at battles such as Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. As the regiment assembled in Grand Rapids, a detailed roster of captains, lieutenants and staff painted a vivid picture of the community that would soon ride northward.

After a brief stint in Lexington, Kentucky, the newly formed cavalry moved to the crowded, freezing camp at Nelson, where disease and bitter cold claimed many lives. A daring cattle drive to Knoxville was thwarted when Confederate forces seized the herd, underscoring the harsh realities of war logistics. The men then endured a grueling mountain march—snow, sleet and ice battering both horse and rider—before finally reaching Burnside Point and preparing for the next phase of service.