Samuel Watson mustered into the 2nd Missouri Cavalry (“Merrill’s Horse) on September 1, 1861, as the regimental quartermaster sergeant. He was promoted to second lieutenant on July 1, 1862, and assigned to Company E, and was promoted to first lieutenant on November 17, 1862.

The 2nd Missouri Cavalry was engaged in the pursuit of guerillas throughout Missouri until 1864, when they saw action against General Sterling Price at Boonville, Little Blue River, Big Blue River, Westport and Mine Creek. The regiment was sent to Tennessee to combat guerillas in late 1864.
Watson was mustered out of the regiment on November 15, 1864, at St. Louis.

Albumen by Unknown Artist.

Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 30831