The 1st Louisiana Cavalry Regiment was camped in Russellville, Ky. during the period of Dec., 1861 and Jan., 1862 where the regiment was decimated by measles. After this they were removed to Bowling Green for winter quarters.
In February, 1862, Gen. Buckner ordered the 1st La. Cavalry Regiment to operate on the North side of the Cumberland River, opposite Ft. Donelson, to prevent the Union from establishing artillery positions across from the fort.