During the Civil War, Warrenton contained a large number of Southern sympathizers and a few Union men who dared to take a stand while being threatened with death.

Col. Frederick Morsey, who organized the 3rd Missouri Cavalry, was served notice to leave town. However, he quietly made and carried out another plan. 

To procure recruits, it was necessary to have them come to his house in the dark of the night. This was the only way the regiment could be enrolled and be safe.

These men deserve the credit of preserving the lives and property of the people of Warren County. They were a very courageous group of men. Even so, there were occasional raids in the county. One such raid occurred on a night in August 1861. 

Around midnight, a large party of guerrillas rode through town. They proceeded to their target, the Red Hill Bridge on the North Missouri Railroad.  

The goal of the raiders was to prevent the transportation of troops to St. Louis where many Kansas and Missouri regiments were being sent. 

When the guerrillas arrived at the bridge, they set fire to the structure. They waited until there was no longer any question as to the total destruction of the bridge and then fled out of town.

The burning of the Red Hill Bridge did cause some delay, but the bridge was replaced quickly and the Union Army continued to send soldiers to St. Louis.  

This story was provided by the Warren County Historical Society, which is funded by donations and run by volunteers. 

The museum is located at 102 W. Walton in Warrenton, and is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Friday and 1 to 4 p.m.  Sunday. 

For more information, to attend an event or to make a donation, call 636-456-3820 or email museum@warrencountymohistory.com.

Photo courtesy of the Warren County Historical Society.