Calvin Ellis was commissioned a colonel and assigned the task of organizing the 1st Missouri Cavalry on July 20, 1861; the organization progressed so rapidly that by September 6, 1861, twelve companies had been recruited and were mustered into service at Jefferson Barracks (St. Louis). The regiment participated in General John C. Fremont’s advance on Springfield that fall.

In March 1862 Ellis was charged with numerous violations of the Articles of War, including “beastly intoxication.” The controversial officer was mustered out of service on April 2, 1862, before a court martial could be convened.

Carte-de-Visite by Charles D. Fredericks & Co., New York, N.Y.

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 31709