Battle of Village Creek facts for kids

The Battle of Village Creek happened on May 24, 1841, near Village Creek in Texas. This fight was between the Texas militia (a group of citizen soldiers) and several Native American tribes. It started because of increased attacks by Native Americans on settlements in the Red River area. The battle became a running gunfight as the Texans moved through the villages.

What is Village Creek?

Village Creek in east Tarrant county

Village Creek is a small stream that flows into the West Fork Trinity River. It runs southwest from Arlington, Texas. This stream was a safe place for many Native American tribes. The Caddos, Cherokees, and Tonkawas built their homes and villages along its banks. The creek stretches about 23 miles, providing a good place to live.

The Fight at Village Creek

On May 14, 1841, a Texas general named Edward H. Tarrant gathered about 70 volunteer soldiers. They met at Fort Johnston. These soldiers were part of the Republic of Texas militia. They had scouting groups led by Captains John B. Denton, Henry B. Stout, and James G. Bourland.

In the morning of May 24, 1841, the Texas soldiers entered the Village Creek area from the south. They captured a Native American who told them where the villages were. Captains Denton, Stout, and Bourland then led their scouting groups north. Their mission was to burn down the huts along the creek banks.

As the scouting groups moved further north, they found larger villages. They also met more Native American warriors. Captains Denton and Stout were hurt near the Trinity River. Captain Denton was the only Texan soldier who died in the battle. Captain Stout and Captain Griffith were wounded. About 12 Native Americans died, and many more were wounded during the fight.

The Bird's Fort Treaty

After the battle, a peace agreement was made. On September 29, 1843, the Treaty of Bird's Fort was signed at Fort Bird. This treaty was between the Village Creek tribes and the Republic of Texas. It allowed pioneers to settle in the Red River counties. This opened up new lands for people to move into.

Studying the Past

Scientists have done archeological digs in the Village Creek area. They have found very old tools and items, some dating back about 9,000 years. These discoveries show that people lived there a long time ago. They were hunters, food-gatherers, and lived in villages.

Today, much of the Village Creek battle site is under Lake Arlington. This lake was created in 1957 and covers a large area.

Historical Markers

The Village Creek battlefield was recognized with a special historical marker in 1936. This marker helps people remember the important events that happened there.

Later, in 1980, the Village Creek area was also recognized as an important archeological site. It received another historical marker for its ancient discoveries.