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Making America's Best Idea Even Better
Washita Battlefield National Historic SiteWashita Battlefield Visitor Center in winter.
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Washita

The site protects and interprets the setting along the Washita River where Lt. Col. George A. Custer led the 7th U.S. Cavalry on a surprise dawn attack against the Southern Cheyenne village of Peace Chief Black Kettle on November 27, 1868. The attack was an important event in the tragic clash of cultures of the Indian Wars era.
 
Cheyenne Dog Soldier Man On CloudCourtesy of Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

A Day of Remembrance and Reflection

At 10:00 am on Saturday, November 27, a blessing ceremony will be held at the park overlook to commemorate the tragic events of November 27, 1868, when Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer led troopers of the 7th Cavalry in a surprise dawn attack against the sleeping village of Cheyenne Peace Chief Black Kettle.

Chief Lawrence Hart, Dr. Henrietta Mann, Chief Gordon Yellowman and others will lead the ceremony. The park tipi will be raised, and the noted drum group, The Red Moon Singers, along with traditional Cheyenne singers, Marie Whiteman and Ruth Brooks will also take part.

“This site has special significance for the Cheyenne and Arapaho people who regard it as hallowed ground because of what happened here on November 27, 1868,” said park superintendent, Lisa Conard Frost. “Washita reminds us of the courage and resilience of a people; it honors all who lost their lives here, and it will continue to be a place of hope and healing for all who come here.”

 
 
 
 

Write to

Rt.1 Box 55a
Cheyenne, Oklahoma 73628

E-mail Us

Phone

Headquarters
(580) 497-2742

Fax

(580) 497-2712

Climate

The Historic Site has a continental climate characterized by cool winters and hot summers with large variations from day to day. Annual precipitation is approximately 23 inches. Strong winds accompany the passages of cold fronts. Temperatures can be anywhere from less than 0°F in the winter and highs are capable of reaching more than 100°F in the summer months. Elevation is approximately 2,000 feet. Humidity can be high. We suggest bringing clothes for any occasion.
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Pre-dawn Attack  

Did You Know?
As Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and his men rode towards Black Kettle's camp they endured four days of blizzard conditions. Several troops were affected by the inclement weather including field surgeons Henry Lippincott and William Renicke both of whom were stricken with snow blindness.

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Last Updated: November 14, 2009 at 15:33 EST