During his expedition up the White River from Helena, Union Brig. Gen. Willis A. Gorman's cavalry captured the town of DeValls Bluff, terminus of the railroad running east from Little Rock toward Memphis, on January 17, 1863. Along with the town he captured 25 Confederate troops, 90 new Enfield rifles, and 2 cannon.

This site has local significance because it is associated with military activities and events that achieved or affected important local objectives of the Vicksburg campaign.

The site would be documented. Acknowledging the site in the Vicksburg Heritage Coalition literature is encouraged. The Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism maintains a museum is Des Arc. Interpretation of the military events at DeVall's Bluff would be appropriate there.