Buffalo Hunters' War facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Buffalo Hunter's War
Part of the Texas–Indian wars, Apache Wars
Black Horse with his wife and child at Fort Marion, Florida.
Date 1876 - 1877 Location Texas, Oklahoma Result Buffalo hunters victory
Commanders and leaders
Hank Campbell - Buffalo hunters	Black Horse - Comanche

The Buffalo Hunters' War, also known as the Staked Plains War, was a conflict that happened in 1877. It involved a group of Comanche warriors and their families, led by Chief Black Horse, and buffalo hunters in Texas. This war was a part of the larger Texas–Indian wars and Apache Wars.

What Was the Buffalo Hunters' War?

The Buffalo Hunters' War was a short but important conflict. It took place in 1877 in the Texas Panhandle and parts of Oklahoma. The war was mainly between Comanche and Apache groups and buffalo hunters.

Why Did the War Happen?

In December 1876, about 170 Comanche warriors and their families left the Indian Territory. They were led by Chief Black Horse, a Quohadi chief. They traveled to the Llano Estacado in Texas. This area is a large, flat plateau.

In February 1877, these Comanche warriors, along with their Apache allies, began attacking buffalo hunters' camps. These attacks happened in the Red River area of the Texas Panhandle. Several hunters were killed or hurt during these attacks. The Native Americans also took horses from the camp of a famous hunter named Pat Garrett.

Who Were the Main People Involved?

After the attacks, about 45 buffalo hunters decided to fight back. They were led by Hank Campbell, Jim Smith, and Joe Freed. A guide named Jose Tafoya helped them track the Native American groups.

They started their journey from Rath City. This was a trading post, a place where people could buy and sell goods. Another hunter, Smoky Hill Thompson, stayed behind to protect Rath City.

The Battle of Yellow House Canyon

The hunters followed the Native Americans to their camp. This camp was located in Thompson's Canyon. Today, this place is known as Yellow House Canyon in Lubbock, Texas.

On March 18, the hunters attacked the camp. This event is known as the Battle of Yellow House Canyon. However, the hunters were pushed back by the Native Americans. The Native American groups managed to escape. A young white captive named Herman Lehmann, who was with the Native Americans, was wounded during this battle.

What Was the Outcome?

The buffalo hunters had four people wounded in the battle. One of them later died from their injuries.

Later reports from the military stated that the Native American groups suffered more losses. It was reported that 35 Native Americans died and 22 were wounded during the conflict. The Buffalo Hunters' War ended with a victory for the buffalo hunters.