by Michael J. Goc
In 1864, Lt. Colonel of the Fourth Wisconsin Volunteers, designed and built a dam across the Red
River at Alexandria, Louisiana, that prevented the loss of the most powerful fleet the US Navy had
assembled in the MIssissippi Valley. Acclaimed in the press, rewarded by the Navy, promoted to
Brigadier General by the Army, and presented with the official Thanks of Congress and President
Lincoln, Bailey became the Hero of the Red River.
This book tells the story of Bailey and the Fourth Wisconsin in Louisiana during the Civil War--at
New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Port Hudson, the Red River, Mobile Bay and in numerous small by nasty
engagements with the Confederates.
It also tells the story of the dam Bailey built at the Dells of the Wisconsin River before the war
that served as the model for the Red River Dam.
Based on letters, memoirs and documents previously unavailable to historians, Hero of the Red River
offers new insights into our nation's bloodiest armed conflict.
Hero of the Red River
The Life and Times of Joseph Bailey
The Badger Ordnance Works, which came to southwestern Wisconsin's Sauk
Prairie in 1941 and forever altered it, was in operation through three major
wars. Author Michael J. Goc presents in this book a comprehensive history
of the powder plant in both its natural and social contexts, seamlessly
weaving a tale of the B.O.W., the people whose lives it changed, and the
unique place where they came together.
Softcover, 404 pages with 95 photos, maps, and illustrations. Annotated and
indexed, with bibliography. $25.00 + tax and shipping.
POWDER, PEOPLE AND PLACE
The First Comprehensive History of the Badger Ordnance Works - Badger Army Ammunition
Plant