Weekly Arkansas Gazette
Little Rock, Arkansas
May 11, 1861
We learn from Mr. Hester, who arrived last evening, direct from Boggy Depot, that the federal troops at Fort Washita, are making preparations to evacuate that post. A gentleman arrived at Boggy Depot on Saturday evening from Fort Washita, informed Mr. Hester, that the commander there had advertised for one hundred wagons, for transportation to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas Territory, but the people were unwilling to go at any price. They were offering five dollars per day, but no one could be had. It is supposed that, as soon as they can procure transportation they will evacuate the post immediately.
Mr. H., says, Capt. Sturgiss has taken a road for Fort Leavenworth, and has not gone to Fort Washita. He left the main road about 70 miles from this place. He was informed that two of Capt. S’s men refused to go North with him, one was killed and the other severely wounded with a sabre.