Battle of Carrizo Canyon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Carrizo Canyon |
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| Part of Victorio's War, Apache Wars | |||||||
 An Apache rifleman. |
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 United States |
Apache | ||||||
| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
 Capt. Charles Parker, Sgt.George Jordan |
Nana (chief) | ||||||
| Strength | |||||||
| 19 | 40 | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| 2 men, 9 horses | 4 | ||||||
The Battle of Carrizo Canyon was a fight between Apache warriors led by Chief Nana and soldiers from the United States Cavalry. It happened on August 12, 1881, in Carrizo Canyon, New Mexico. This battle was part of a bigger conflict called Victorio's War, which was itself part of the Apache Wars. The American soldiers won this particular battle.
Background to the Battle
After a famous Apache leader named Victorio died in 1880, an older, experienced warrior named Nana took over. Many other Apache warriors joined his group. In August 1881, Captain Charles Parker and 18 soldiers from the 10th Cavalry were tracking Nana's warriors. These soldiers were also known as Buffalo Soldiers, a nickname given to African American cavalrymen by Native Americans.
The Battle Begins
On August 12, 1881, Captain Parker's small group of 19 soldiers was ambushed by about 40 Apache warriors in Carrizo Canyon. The soldiers found themselves trapped, with Apache rifles firing down on them.
Captain Parker quickly ordered a brave and experienced soldier, Sergeant George Jordan, to take some men to higher ground. Their job was to fire down on the Apaches from above. This was a very intense fight, and both sides had casualties (meaning people were injured or killed).
Sergeant Jordan's small group was attacked, but they held their position. This brave action allowed the other soldiers trapped in the canyon to safely retreat.
Heroes of the Battle
For their bravery during this battle, two soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor. This is the highest military award given by the United States. The recipients were Sergeant Thomas Shaw and Sergeant George Jordan. Sergeant Jordan was also recognized for his leadership in another battle, the Battle of Fort Tularosa.
