The enemy advanced on Opelousas, driving the 16th and Green's Cavalry. The regiment participates in firing on the federal steamer Van Pool on the Mississippi River. Brigadier Generals Scurry and Randall of Walker's Division both die from wounds received during the battle. Colonel R. Waterhouse promoted to Brigadier General. He assumes command of the 3rd Brigade to which the 16th is currently attached.
Men receive two months' pay.
The majority of the men took the cash and spent the next few nights playing cards and going into town. At this camp, the regiment was re-assigned to the new 4th Brigade. The new brigade was composed of the 18th Texas Infantry, the 28th Texas Dismounted Cavalry, the 34th Texas Dismounted Cavalry, and Wall's Texas Dismounted Cavalry. The Brigade was commanded by Brig. General W.H. King.