Fifth Military District: Army Administration in Reconstruction Texas and Louisiana
Following the American Civil War, the United States entered a turbulent era known as Reconstruction, a period dedicated to reintegrating the Southern states into the Union. To ensure the enforcement of federal laws and the protection of civil rights, the U.S. War Department established five temporary administrative units. Among these was the Fifth Military District, a critical jurisdiction that managed the transition of Texas and Louisiana back into the fold of the United States.
Established under the mandates of the Reconstruction Acts, the Fifth Military District existed from 1867 to 1870. Its primary purpose was to maintain order and oversee the political restructuring of its assigned states during a time of intense social and political volatility.
Key Facts
- Duration: 1867 to 1870.
- Jurisdiction: The states of Texas and Louisiana.
- Purpose: Enforcing the Reconstruction Acts following the American Civil War.
- First Governor: General Philip Sheridan.
- End of Control: Military administration ceased when Texas was readmitted to the Union on March 30, 1870.
Leadership and Political Conflict
The administration of the Fifth Military District was marked by significant political friction between military commanders and the executive branch. General Philip Sheridan served as the first military governor. Sheridan was rigorous in his enforcement of the Reconstruction Acts, which included the removal of Confederate sympathizers from local government offices.
These actions drew the ire of President Andrew Johnson, who viewed Sheridan's approach as overreaching. In August 1867, President Johnson ordered Sheridan's removal. He was replaced by Winfield Scott Hancock, a Democrat who largely reversed the policies and progress established by Sheridan.
The transition between these two leaders was not immediate. For three months, the district was managed by two interim commanders: Charles Griffin, who served until his death from yellow fever, and subsequently Joseph A. Mower.
The Transition to Civil Rule
The leadership shifted again in March 1869 when Ulysses S. Grant assumed the presidency. Grant replaced Hancock with Joseph J. Reynolds. Reynolds commanded the district until the military's role concluded with the readmission of Texas to the Union on March 30, 1870.
Military Presence and Operations
The U.S. Army maintained a robust presence in the region to secure the territory and protect federal interests. In Texas, the forces included the U.S. 1st Artillery, the 4th, 6th, and 9th Cavalry Regiments, as well as the 15th, 17th, 20th, 25th, and 41st Infantry Regiments.
Records from the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) indicate that the U.S. 35th Infantry Regiment was stationed in San Antonio, Texas, from approximately December 1866 to mid-1870. This unit was primarily commanded by Brigadier General (Brevet) John S. Mason.
Despite the military presence, the region remained dangerous. Black federal soldiers stationed at Fort Brown in Brownsville, Texas, and other locations faced various attacks. These incidents were attributed to desperados, Natives, and Jayhawkers (irregular paramilitary groups). Notably, many official reports from the era failed to identify the specific perpetrators of these crimes.
Summary of Reconstruction Military Districts
| District | States Covered |
|---|---|
| First Military District | Virginia |
| Second Military District | North Carolina, South Carolina |
| Third Military District | Georgia, Alabama, Florida |
| Fourth Military District | Arkansas, Mississippi |
| Fifth Military District | Texas, Louisiana |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states were part of the Fifth Military District?
The Fifth Military District covered the states of Texas and Louisiana.
Who was the first military governor of the district?
General Philip Sheridan was the first military governor, known for removing Confederate sympathizers from office to enforce the Reconstruction Acts.
Why was Philip Sheridan removed from his position?
President Andrew Johnson ordered Sheridan's removal in August 1867 because he was outraged by Sheridan's strict enforcement of the Reconstruction Acts.
When did military control of the Fifth Military District end?
Military control ended on March 30, 1870, coinciding with the readmission of Texas to the Union.
Which Army units were stationed in Texas during this time?
Units included the 1st Artillery, the 4th, 6th, and 9th Cavalry, and the 15th, 17th, 20th, 25th, 35th, and 41st Infantry Regiments.