This programmatic work was commissioned by the Republic, Missouri High School Band. The title refers to a battle that took place at Wilsons Creek near Springfield, Missouri early in the Civil War. The music is based on the traditional tune Johnny Has Gone For a Soldier, which was a popular song during both the Revolutionary and the Civil Wars. The song is a womans lament for her man who is going off to war. The piece begins with a plaintive quiet section which developes and builds, evolving into an exciting fast section.