Because the Confederates concentrated here, the fort took on a greater significance: it was the key to the entire Ouachita River Valley.

Lieutenant William W. Fowler, representing the Federals, demanded the unconditional surrender of the fort and its surroundings.

After firing 150 shots, the Federal shells left one Officer seriously wounded, damaged some of the parapet and destroyed one house in the town.

[3] The Confederates lost the use of important artillery pieces although two large 32 pound cannons were preserved.

Commander F. M. Ramsey's naval force of six vessels navigated passed the fort before being prevented from attacking Monroe by a falling river level.