Battle of Lyman's Wagon Train facts for kids
|
Battle of Lyman's Wagon Train
|
|
Roadside historical marker near battle site
|
|
| Nearest city | Canadian, Texas |
|---|---|
| Area | 343 acres (139 ha) |
| MPS | Battle Sites of the Red River War in the Texas Panhandle MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 01000875 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Battle date | September 9–14, 1874 |
| Added to NRHP | August 13, 2001 |
The Battle of Lyman's Wagon Train was an important fight that happened in 1874. It took place near a town called Canadian, Texas. This battle was a key part of the Red River War, a conflict between the United States Army and several Native American tribes.
Contents
What Was the Battle of Lyman's Wagon Train?
The Battle of Lyman's Wagon Train was a six-day battle. It happened from September 9 to September 14, 1874. During this time, a group of U.S. Army soldiers and their supplies were attacked.
Who Fought in the Battle?
The battle involved soldiers led by Lieutenant Wyllys Lyman. They were protecting a wagon train, which is a group of wagons carrying supplies. They fought against warriors from the Comanche and Kiowa tribes.
This battle is also sometimes called the Battle of the Upper Washita.
Why Was This Battle Important?
The Battle of Lyman's Wagon Train was part of the larger Red River War. This war was fought to remove Native American tribes from the Texas Panhandle region. The U.S. Army wanted to open up the land for settlers.
The Red River War Explained
The Red River War was a major military effort in 1874. It involved the U.S. Army fighting against the Comanche, Kiowa, Southern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes. The war aimed to force these tribes onto reservations.
The Story of Tehan
During the battle, an interesting event happened involving a man named Tehan. He was a white person who had been adopted by the Kiowa tribe. At the time of the battle, he was being held by the U.S. Army.
Tehan managed to escape during the fighting. He successfully returned to his Kiowa family. His story shows how complex the relationships were during this period.
Honoring the Soldiers
Several soldiers who fought bravely in the Battle of Lyman's Wagon Train received special recognition. They were awarded the Medal of Honor. This is the highest military award given by the United States. It recognizes extreme bravery in battle.
Remembering the Battle Site
Today, the area where the battle took place is recognized as an important historical site. A 343 acres (139 ha) area was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. This listing helps protect the site for future study.
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is an official list kept by the U.S. government. It includes places that are important in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture. Listing a site helps protect it.
Because this site is an archeological site, its exact location is not publicly shared. This helps protect any historical artifacts or remains that might still be there.
A special historical marker in Hemphill County, Texas also remembers the event. It is titled "Wagon Train Battle" and tells visitors about the fight.
