In his later years, the quiet, small, grey-haired man was the United States Marshal for western Missouri. He knew the works of Sir Walter Scott and was fond of writing and quoting the chivalric prose befitting Scott’s characters. Two decades earlier this quiet man was a dynamic war leader, feared for his daring and often reckless attacks on the enemy. He was one of the most celebrated Confederate calvary leaders from Missouri, a formidable foe known for quick strikes, furious fights, and a tough will to win. Joseph O. Shelby commanded Missouri’s Iron Brigade.

AOWM – December 12