John Estes was a member of the 14th Missouri State Militia Cavalry from March 7, 1862 to February 4, 1863, when he transferred to Company I, 8th Missouri State Militia Cavalry.

The 8th Missouri participated in actions against Confederate regular forces and guerrillas in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas from 1862-1864, then pursued General Sterling Price during his 1864 raid through Missouri. The regiment fought at the Little Blue, Independence, Big Blue, Westport, Mine Creek, and Newtonia.

Estes mustered out of service on April 23, 1865.

The photograph was taken after the Civil War; a veteran’s medal with “J. H. Estes” engraved on it is pinned to his vest.

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 15560