It was later described by the writer William E. Connelley as "consist[ing] of some log cabins with a total frontage of about 100 feet, facing east toward Spring river.
Back of the fort, and of the same width, was a large space enclosed by embankments of earth thrown up against logs and about 4 feet high.
The Union garrison, about 25 white cavalry and 65-70 infantry men of the United States Colored Troops[4] defended the fort.
When word of Blunt's defeat reached Fort Scott, Kansas, five companies of US troops were sent to temporarily reinforce Baxter Springs.
But on October 20, 1863, the troops in Baxter Springs were ordered to abandon the area and return to the better-fortified Fort Scott.