The Augustin Guards were one of two militia units organized by Cane River's gens de couleur libre (free people of color). However,Confederate law prohibited nonwhites from serving in the military. Therefore, Dupre and the Augustin Guards were not allowed to join the army. Although disappointed, the Augustin Guards served faithfully as a homeguard for Cane River. 
On April 23, 1864, Confederates attacked Gen T. K. Smith's division near Magnolia Plantation. Smith "… repulsed them neatly and thoroughly after about an hour's fighting." The citizens of nearby Cloutierville had their personal property destroyed and taken by the Union Soldiers. This minor Union victory dealt a devastating blow to the small farm 
From Soldier to Statesman Prud'homme grew up on his family's Bermuda (later Oakland) Plantation. When war broke out in 1861, he enlisted in the Confederate Army, fighting with both the 3rd Louisiana Infantry and the 2nd Louisiana Cavalry. He was cited for bravery at Wilson's Creek and severely wounded at Irish Bend. After the war he became active in state politics. |
Last updated: July 3, 2024