The battle of Bracito was the first engagement fought by the mounted troops, under the command of Colonel Doniphan. It occurred on Christmas day, 1847. Colonel Doniphan’s men had marched to within a short distance of the town of El Paso, and had encamped near a bend in the Bracito river. The Mexicans, in great force, came upon them, while they were in search of wood and water. A quick rally was made, and the Americans drew up on foot to receive the charge of the enemy’s cavalry. The Mexicans displayed a black flag, with skull and cross-bones worked upon it, and said they would give no quarter nor ask it. A heavy shower of balls from the rifles of the Americans caused the cavalry to wheel and retreat in confusion. A small party of the Americans then rushed up to the enemy’s line, and captured their cannon, dragging it into the American line. This daring and desperate act completely astonished the Mexicans, and they soon after made a hurried retreat, having lost about two hundred men. Colonel Doniphan lost very few men.
BATTLE OF SACRAMENTO.
BATTLE OF SACRAMENTO.
Colonel Doniphan’s force was increased to a thousand men, with four pieces of artillery, soon after his arrival at El Paso. Continuing his march towards Chihuahua, he reached the valley of the Sacramento. The Mexicans had taken a strong position on the banks of the Sacramento, and it was well fortified. Colonel Doniphan saw that the only chance of fighting them at all upon even ground was to get possession of the high tableland between the Seco and Sacramento rivers. Accordingly a small force was directed to advance for that purpose. This gallant band stormed the intrenchments and gained the tableland, where the whole American army was drawn up for battle. The Mexicans opened a heavy fire, and it was returned with more effect by Captain Weightman’s artillery. Then the troops were ordered to storm the works. A gallant charge was made, amid a tremendous fire, and, after a three hour’s fight, the enemy were completely defeated. The Mexicans lost about three hundred men, ten pieces of artillery, and a large quantity of ammunition. This battle was justly considered one of the most brilliant that was fought during the war. It raised the fame of Colonel Doniphan and his brave band of warriors to a very high point in public esteem.
BATTLE OF PASQUAL.