McRae, Dandridge, 1829-1899

Dandridge McRae was born in Baldwin County, Ala., 10 Oct. 1829 and came to Arkansas (White County, Red River Township) in 1849. He moved to Searcy in 1853 and began practicing law there in 1854. In 1856 he was elected County and Circuit Clerk and served for six years. McRae became actively involved in organizing troops in 1861 during preparations for the Civil War. Many organized companies reported to McRae at the outset of fighting and he took command of them at the request of General Ben McCulloch. McRae organized a regiment and was made its colonel. He served under McCulloch at Wilson's Creek, Pea Ridge, and Corinth. McRae returned to Arkansas in 1862, raised another regiment, and was then assigned to command a brigade. Another promotion occurred in 1862---to Brigadier General---at which rank McRae served until the end of the war. He played an important role at the Battle of Helena, capturing the only fort taken during that engagement. McRae also participated in battles at Jenkins Ferry and Prairie Grove. Following the war he returned to his law practice in Searcy and later held several positions within the government. Dandridge McRae died 23 Apr. 1899 and is buried in Searcy. The town of McRae, Ark., is named in his honor.