Jacksonport, established as the seat of Jackson County in 1854, was occupied by both sides at different times during the Civil War. Five major generals used the town as headquarters during the war. Several skirmishes took place beween Union and Confederate forces in the Jacksonport vicinity, including fights that occurred on May 21 and June 12, 1862. After completing its unsuccessful raid into southeast Missouri in April 1863, Confederate Brig. Gen. John S. Marmaduke's command returned to Jacksonport in Mid-May. Prior to the Confederate attack on Helena, Maj. Gen. Sterling Price maintained the headquarters for his division in the town.

Jacksonport has regional/state significance because it had an observable influence on the outcome of the Vicksburg campaign. The town's signficance is based on its association with Marmaduke's raid into southeast Missouri as well as the Battle of Helena, both of which were intended to relieve Federal pressure on Vicksburg.

The site would be documented. Onsite interpretation of the events at Jacksonport would be appropriate at the state park managed by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Connecting the site to the Vicksburg Heritage Coalition is encouraged.