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On November 10, 1861, a Confederate cavalry force of more than 700 attacked a Union recruitment camp for the Ninth (West) Virginia Infantry regiment along the port town of Guyandotte in Cabell County. Led by Col. John Clarkson, the Confederates quickly overcame the brief resistance of the federal recruits, who numbered some 150 men. Allegedly many pro-Confederate residents in town participated in the fighting, even firing on Union troops. Casualties were minimal, but the Confederates captured around 100 Union soldiers before leaving. On November 11, the Fifth (West) Virginia Infantry, arriving too late to intervene in the battle, burned the town in retaliation for its purported role in aiding the Confederates. A large portion of Guyandotte was destroyed, including the Buffington Mill. Today the Battle and Burning of Guyandotte are commemorated with several markers and an annual series of reenactments.