Union Colonel Franz Sigel leads another force of about one thousand into southwest Missouri in search of Governor Jackson and his loyal troops.

Upon learning that Sigel has encamped at Carthage, Missouri on the night of July 4, Jackson takes command of the troops with him and formulates a plan to attack the much smaller Union force.

The next morning, Jackson closes up to Sigel, forms a battle line on a ridge ten miles north of Carthage, and induces Sigel to attack him.

Opening with artillery fire, Sigel closes to the attack.

Seeing a large Confederate force—actually unarmed recruits—moving into the woods on his left, he fears that they will turn his flank.

He withdraws and the Confederates pursue, but Sigel conducts a successful rearguard action.

By evening, Sigel is inside Carthage.

Under cover of darkness, he retreats to Sarcoxie.

The battle has little military significance, but the pro-Southern elements in Missouri, anxious for any good news, celebrate their first victory.