Battle of Infernal Caverns facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Infernal Caverns
Part of the Indian Wars, Snake War
Site of the battle in 2016
Date 26–28 September 1867 Location Infernal Caverns, Likely, California Result U.S. victory
Belligerents
United States Warm Springs Shoshone	Paiute Pit River Indians Modoc
Commanders and leaders
George Crook	Cheeoh Sieta
Strength
1st U.S. Cavalry 23rd U.S. Infantry (110 soldiers) Warm Springs and Shoshone Scouts (15 Natives)	75 Paiute 30 Pit River few Modoc
Casualties and losses
8 killed 11 wounded	20 killed 12 wounded 2 captured

The Battle of Infernal Caverns was an important fight during the Snake War in 1867. It happened between Native American warriors and the U.S. Army. This battle took place in the Infernal Caverns in northern California, near a town called Likely. The Native American fighters had used the natural caves and rocks to create a strong defense.

What Was the Snake War?

The Snake War was a series of conflicts that happened between 1864 and 1868. It involved the United States Army and various Native American groups. These groups included the Northern Paiute, Bannock, and Western Shoshone peoples. The fighting mostly took place in parts of Oregon, Idaho, and California.

Why Did the War Happen?

The war started because settlers were moving into Native American lands. This led to disagreements over resources like land and hunting grounds. Both sides wanted to protect their way of life.

The Battle at Infernal Caverns

Native American warriors chose the Infernal Caverns as a strong place to defend themselves. They built a fortress using hard lava rocks. From this hidden spot, they could fire at the soldiers below.

Who Was Involved?

The U.S. Army forces were led by Lieutenant Colonel George Crook. His soldiers faced a group of Native American warriors. These warriors included members of the Paiute, Pit River, and Modoc tribes.

The First Day: A Tough Start

The battle began on September 26, 1867. The Native American warriors were well-protected in their rock fortress. They were able to keep the U.S. soldiers from getting close.

The Second Day: The Attack

On September 27, Lieutenant Colonel Crook's soldiers launched a strong attack. Despite facing many challenges, they managed to climb the steep cliffs. They fought their way into the fortifications. The fighting was very intense.

The Third Day: Retreat

The battle continued into the night as the Native American warriors moved deeper into the caverns. By the third day, September 28, the warriors had left the caverns. The U.S. Army had taken control of the area.

After the Battle

The Battle of Infernal Caverns was a victory for the U.S. Army. However, it was a difficult fight for both sides. Lieutenant Colonel Crook later described how challenging it was to fight in the caverns. This battle was one of many during the long Snake War.