On May 25, 1861, the Chickasaw Legislature passed a resolution to dissolve their alliance with the Union. Their lot was now cast. Governor Cyrus Harris had warned the leaders of the Five Nations to not make a hasty decision that would destroy the tribes. But, the passions of war were now stirred in both Chickasaw and white.
The District of Indian Territory of the Confederacy was established with former agent Douglas Cooper appointed as commanding general. It should be noted here that Douglas Cooper and Jefferson Davis served together in the U. S. Army in the Mexican War. This may explain how a third level public servant suddenly became a commanding general.
At Cooper's call the First Regiment of the Chickasaws and Choctaws was formed with Tandy Walker, a Choctaw, second in command. The First Chickasaw Infantry Regiment was formed with Colonel William Hunter commanding.
Service records for this unit are found on microfilm # M258 - 81.
OFFICERS:
Colonel William Hunter
ROSTERS:
No rosters have been found of this unit.
HISTORICAL NOTES: