My g. grandfather Peyton Green Whaley was in Col. James Code Monroe's 1st Arkansas Cavalry from Washington County. At the end of the war, Col. Monroe and the remains if the 1st Arkansas Cavalry came as far as the Trinity River near Dallas with intention to continue the war in Maximillian's Army in Mexico. When they arrived at the Trinity River, Col. Monroe decided to give the regiment the choice to continue to Mexico or return home. The regiment decided to return to their homes. Col. Monroe continued to San Louis Potosi Mexico and never returned.

Union Gen. Frederick Steele said Monroe's 1st Arkansas Cavalry was the most formidble foe he faced in Arkansas.