Established as a national monument chiefly for its geological and scientific value, Lava Beds is also significant as the principal battleground of the Modoc War of 1872 - 73. In a twisted, almost impregnable volcanic fortress that came to be known as Captain Jack’s Stronghold, a handful of Modocs held off a sizable force of U.S. soldiers for six months. Modoc leader, Kintpuash know as Capt. Jack, shot and killed Gen. Edward R. S. Canby during a peace conference on April 11, 1873. Capt. Jack ultimately surrendered. He and the chief conspirators of the slaying of Canby were executed.