Camp Connor facts for kids
Camp Connor was an important military camp set up by the Union Army during the American Civil War. It was established on May 23, 1863, by Captain David Black. He was part of the 3rd Regiment California Volunteer Infantry.
The camp was named after Patrick Edward Connor, a high-ranking officer known as a Brigadier General. General Connor was in charge of the Utah area for the Union Army. He ordered the camp to be built to help protect important travel routes and settlements.
Where Was Camp Connor Located?
Camp Connor was built in what is now Idaho. It was located east of a town called Soda Springs, Idaho. The camp sat on the north bank of the Bear River. This area was important for people traveling across the western United States.
Why Was Camp Connor Built?
General Connor had several reasons for setting up Camp Connor:
- Protecting Travel Routes: One main goal was to protect the "overland route" to Oregon. This was a very important path for settlers and supplies moving west.
- Protecting Soda Springs: General Connor was also creating a new settlement at Soda Springs. This settlement was for a group of people called the Morrisites.
- Managing Local Relations: He hoped the Morrisites would help prevent other groups, like the Mormons, from expanding their settlements too much into this area. The camp also aimed to help manage relations with the Bannock Indians who lived nearby.
When Was Camp Connor Abandoned?
Camp Connor served its purpose for a few years. General Connor ordered the camp to be closed down on February 24, 1865. The soldiers finally left the camp in late April of that year. Even though it was only active for a short time, Camp Connor played a role in the history of the American West during the Civil War era.
