In the month of August, 1856, a company of so-called Territorial Militia established themselves at Hickory Point, Jefferson county, about twenty miles north of Lawrence, and proceeded to make raids on the Free State settlements.

In one of these raids they pillaged the village of Grasshopper Falls, robbing the stores of their contents.
Gen.

Lane and Captains Harvey and Bickerton determined to attack and dislodge these marauders.

But on the 11th of September Gov.

Geary, having arrived at Lecompton, issued a proclamation ordering all armed bands of men, whether known as Territorial Militia or Free State Guerrillas, to disperse and retire to their homes.Gen.