I'm looking for details about the Monroe Station Skirmish in the area where Monroe/Ralls/Marion Counties come together. This fight happened on or about 10 July 1861. It invovled mounted and dismounted cavalry, infantry and artillery, but I'm not confident about the composition or disposition of the Union or Rebel forces fighting.

I beleive it had something to do with the Hannibal-St. Joseph Railroad. Local rebels were incensed about recent outrages and apparently raided the railroad depot, tore up track and destroyed a train. Union forces were sent to disperse them.

Afterwards, Col. U.S. Grant arrived with Illinois Cavalry to punish the rebs for their actions and guard the briges for the railroad.

Was this much of a fight? What were the precursors? What casued the rebels to be so outraged? Why were they out to tear up the railroad? What were the outcomes of this fight for both sides? Whom all was involved?

As always, any pointers to definitive resources will be greatly appreciated.