In the fall of 1861, Theodore Dodd recruited an independent company of Colorado volunteers. His unit was mustered into service in early 1862 as part of the 2nd Colorado Infantry, and proceeded to New Mexico, where Dodd led his command in the Battle of Valverde. In 1863 the 2nd Colorado was ordered east, and took part in the battles of Cabin Creek and Honey Springs in the Indian Territory.

In October 1863, the 2nd Colorado Infantry was consolidated with the 3rd Colorado Infantry to form the 2nd Colorado Cavalry under the command of Colonel James H. Ford. Dodd was promoted to lieutenant colonel of the regiment. The 2nd was assigned to replace Kansas cavalry units engaged in anti-guerrilla operations along the Kansas-Missouri border.

The regiment pursued General Sterling Price on his 1864 raid through Missouri, engaging him in the battles of Camden Point, Lexington, Blue River, Independence, Byram’s Ford, Westport, Marais de Cygnes, Mine Creek, and Newtonia.

The regiment was mustered out of service on November 2, 1865, at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

Carte-de-Visite Hoelke & Benecke, St. Louis, Mo.

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 31690