The company known as the “Hempstead Rifles” was raised in Hempstead County, Arkansas in May 1861. Although they were enlisted for only three months, the company engaged in the Battle of Wilson’s Creek on August 10, 1861. Returning to Arkansas, the company was mustered out of service on September 17, 1861, with the majority of the troops enlisting in regular Confederate units.
The Hempstead Rifles No. 2 became the core of Company H of the newly formed 17th Regiment Arkansas Infantry. By this time there was little need for company flags since the regimental flags were used as a symbol of combined companies. Although made in recognition of the re-created Hempstead Rifles, this flag is not likely to have been used in the field.
At Pea Ridge they were part of General Benjamin McCulloch’s Division and were engaged in the heavy fighting in Morgan’s Woods, where the brush and smoke were so thick it was hard to distinguish friend from foe.
This flag is constructed in the pattern of the Confederate 1st National flag and displays thirteen stars; on the reverse is a single large star with the word “Arkansas” arched above it.
Image Courtesy Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield; WICR 30078
