Cavalry Charge Wayside

The “Cavalry Charge” wayside provides an overview of the pivotal moments at the Battle of Palo Alto.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Brownsville, TX

Quote Text 

I was anxious to charge because the cannon fire was tearing at our ranks. I ordered General Anastacio Torrejón to attack from the left with the greater part of our cavalry, expecting to open the way for a second strike from the right— using infantry and the rest of the cavalry. I waited for Torrejón to complete his charge, but he was stopped by an opposing force that defended a marshy ravine and turned back the attack. ~ Mariano Arista, general

Eight hundred lancers formed to charge...On they came — but when they had got within about 40 yards, the front of the square attacked, poured in its volley of buckshot and balls, and horses, officers, and…lancers were brought to the ground. ~ Napoleon Dana, lieutenant

Sub Text 

General Arista ordered his calvary, the strongest part of his forces, to charge the U.S. line.

But marshy uneven ground and this twisting resaca — the ancient riverbed of the Rio Grande—slowed the attack.

The U.S. 5th Infantry had enough time to form a defensive square and turn back Torrejon's lancers.

Image Descriptions 

Center
Historical depiction of an infantry square formation defending against a cavalry attack.