Bitter Spring Expedition facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Bitter Spring Expedition
Part of the American Indian Wars
Date April to July, 1860 Location Mojave Desert, San Bernardino County, California, Nevada Result United States victory
Belligerents
United States	Southern Paiute
Commanders and leaders
Newman S. Clarke James Henry Carleton	none
Strength
Company K of First Regiment of Dragoons	unknown
Casualties and losses
0 killed, 2 wounded	5 killed, 1 wounded

The Bitter Spring Expedition in 1860 was a journey by the U.S. Army. Soldiers from Fort Tejon went into the Mojave Desert. Their goal was to find and punish Southern Paiute individuals. These individuals were believed to have attacked travelers at Bitter Spring. This spring was an important stop on the Mormon Road, a trade route between Utah and California.

Why the Expedition Happened

The Bitter Spring Expedition began because of two earlier events. Both incidents caused trouble along the travel routes.

Attacks on Travelers

In January 1860, a cattleman was killed near the Mojave River. People believed Southern Paiute individuals were responsible. Two months later, in March, two unarmed teamsters were killed. This happened at Bitter Spring. The attackers pretended to be friendly before suddenly attacking them with arrows. These attacks made the U.S. Army decide to act.

Major Carleton Takes Command

In April 1860, Major James Henry Carleton was chosen to lead the Bitter Spring Expedition. His boss, General Newman S. Clarke, gave him clear orders. General Clarke commanded the Department of California from San Francisco.

General's Orders

General Clarke told Carleton to go to Bitter Spring. He ordered Carleton to "chastise the Indians you find in the vicinity." This meant to punish the Native Americans there. The General also said the punishment should affect those living closest to the attack site. It should also affect those who used the water source nearby.

Carleton's Approach

Major Carleton led Company K of the First Regiment of Dragoons. They left Fort Tejon in early April. Carleton's feelings toward the Paiute people were already negative. This was partly due to his earlier investigations into past events. These feelings influenced how his soldiers treated the Native Americans they met during this mission.

The Expedition's Actions

After reaching the area, Carleton set up a base. This base was at a place called Camp Cady. From there, he sent out patrols. These patrols searched for any groups believed to be hostile.

Key Engagement

On May 2, the soldiers had a fight at Old Dad Mountain. This was an important moment during the expedition. The army post stayed at Bitter Spring after this. Their job was to protect travelers using the road. The expedition ended, and the post was left on July 3, 1860.