Discovering the History of the Newburgh Raid
While exploring Newburgh along the Ohio River, we learned about one of the most unusual stories connected to the American Civil War.
In July 1862, Newburgh became the first town in a Northern state to be captured by Confederate forces during the war. What makes the story even more remarkable is how small the raiding force actually was—and the unusual trick they used to take the town without firing a shot.
What Was the Newburgh Raid?
The Newburgh Raid took place on July 18, 1862, when Confederate partisan leader Adam Rankin Johnson led a small force across the Ohio River from Kentucky into Indiana.
Johnson reportedly had only around 35 men with him.
To intimidate the defenders of Newburgh, Johnson positioned what appeared to be cannons on the Kentucky side of the river overlooking the town. In reality, the “artillery” consisted of stovepipes, charred logs, and wagon wheels arranged to resemble real cannons.
The deception worked so well that the fake weapons became forever associated with Johnson, earning him the nickname “Stovepipe Johnson.”
Unlike a formal Confederate military operation, Johnson’s force was more of an irregular partisan group made up of local recruits and volunteers rather than organized soldiers operating under direct Confederate command.
How the Raid Began
Johnson and his men crossed the Ohio River using small boats and a flatboat during the early morning hours.
Before crossing, the fake “Quaker Guns” were carefully positioned on the hills above the river to give the impression that Confederate artillery was ready to bombard the town if resistance was attempted.
At the time, Newburgh’s local defenses were poorly organized.
The local Indiana Legion was under the command of Union Bethell, who had stored many of the town’s weapons in an unguarded warehouse along the riverfront. The town also contained a temporary military hospital at the Exchange Hotel, which held medical supplies, commissary goods, and weapons intended for future militia companies.
When Johnson entered town, Bethell reportedly arrived wearing civilian clothing and quickly realized the town appeared to be surrounded by artillery.
Johnson threatened to shell Newburgh if resistance was made. Believing the town was outmatched, the local defenders surrendered without a fight.
After taking weapons, supplies, and prisoners, Johnson released the captured Union soldiers on parole and returned safely to Kentucky.
What Happened After the Raid?
The success of the raid shocked both Indiana officials and Union military leaders.
Oliver P. Morton quickly responded by calling for additional volunteers and stronger military protection along the river towns of Indiana.
Within days:
- Union troops occupied nearby Henderson, Kentucky
- Additional soldiers were sent into the area
- Recruitment efforts increased across Indiana
The raid ultimately helped boost Union enlistment efforts in the state during a critical period of the war.
The event also helped launch Johnson’s military reputation. He later organized the 10th Kentucky Cavalry and returned to Indiana during Morgan’s Raid the following year.
Visiting Newburgh Today
Today, visitors to Newburgh can still explore locations connected to the raid.
A historical marker near the riverfront park identifies the area where Johnson and his men are believed to have landed during the raid.
Not far away, the historic Exchange Hotel still stands and remains one of the preserved historic buildings in downtown Newburgh.
The town has also continued remembering the event through historical reenactments and museum programs connected to the raid.
Walking Through Historic Newburgh
One of the things we enjoyed most while visiting Newburgh was seeing how much of the historic downtown still survives today.
Walking along the riverfront and through the older streets helps give a better sense of how important this Ohio River town once was during the 1800s. Many of the buildings from that era are still standing and continue to be used today.
It adds another layer to the story when you realize these quiet streets once witnessed one of the most unusual Confederate raids of the Civil War.
You can read about our walk and visit here.
Things to Know Before Visiting
- Historical markers can be found near the riverfront
- The Exchange Hotel can still be viewed today
- Downtown Newburgh is compact and walkable
- Parking near the riverfront can be limited during busy times
- The area connects well with other Ohio River history sites
Final Thoughts
The Newburgh Raid is one of those lesser-known Civil War stories that many people have never heard about.
What started as a small raid using fake cannons became an event that embarrassed Union leaders, boosted recruiting efforts, and gave Newburgh a permanent place in Civil War history.
For us, it added another layer of appreciation while walking through this historic Ohio River town and seeing how much of its past still remains visible today.
More Historical Places
Local Legends and History
Every place that we stop we discover a story or history along the way, these are the stories that bring the past back to life. Some are tied to major events. Others are smaller pieces of history that still carry meaning when you take the time to stop and look closer.
Civil War Sites We’ve Visited
As we travel through the Midwest and along the river routes, we’ve found that many of these places don’t look like much at first glance. A roadside marker, a small cemetery, or a quiet churchyard—but each one holds a deeper story tied to the conflict that divided the nation.
Share with us the history stories you have
We love to hear from others the places and stories that you have. Leave us a comment about yours.
