Federal Soldiers Seize the Missouri Capitol

Saturday, June 15, 1861

This sketch by Orlando C. Richardson depicts Jefferson City, Missouri. Courtesy of the Internet Archive.

Marking the initial struggle for the state of Missouri, federal forces under command of General Nathaniel Lyon seize the Missouri Capitol at Jefferson City and establish a provisional government to keep Missouri in the Union. Deposed secessionist Governor Claiborne Fox Jackson retreats to Boonville.