Distant Bugles, Distant Drums

The epic story of the 1,000 Colorado Union troops who fought against 3,000 Confederate troops in New Mexico during the Civil War.

Drawing on previously overlooked diaries, letters, and contemporary newspaper accounts, military historian Flint Whitlock brings the Civil War in the West to life. Distant Bugles, Distant Drums details the battles of 1,000 Coloradans against 3,000 Confederate soldiers in New Mexico and offers vivid portraits of the leaders and soldiers involved, men whose strengths and flaws would shape the fate of the nation.

On their way to Colorado in search of gold and silver for the Confederacy’s dwindling coffers, Texan Confederates won a series of engagements along the Rio Grande. Hastily assembled troops that had marched to meet them from Colorado finally turned them back in an epic conflict at Gloriéta Pass.

Miners, farmers, and peacetime officers turned themselves overnight into soldiers to keep the Confederacy from capturing the West’s mines, shaping the outcome of the Civil War. Distant Bugles, Distant Drums tells their story.

Southwest Book Award Winner from the Border Regional Library Association

“An important new book by Denver military historian Flint Whitlock . . . This well-written, solidly researched history of Colorado’s Union troops is eye-opening.” —Rocky Mountain News
"This volume is Civil War military history at its very best. The research, especially in primary sources, is fresh, the interpretation is informed and concise, and the writing is skillful. Follow Whitlock’s engagingly crafted narrative. He introduces you to the officers, soldiers, politicians, and merchants. He tells of their competence, loyalty, opportunities, and accomplishments.” —James H. Nottage, Blue & Gray Magazine