Camp Curtis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Camp Curtis |
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Camp Curtis
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| Location | Humboldt County, California, United States |
| Nearest city | Arcata, California |
| Established | 1921 |
| Governing body | California Historical Landmarks |
| Reference #: | 215 |
Camp Curtis was an important military post in California during the 1860s. It was located near Arcata, California, and served as the main base for the 1st Battalion California Volunteer Mountaineers. This camp was active from 1862 to 1865. Today, it is recognized as California State Historic Landmark #215.
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Before Camp Curtis
Before Camp Curtis was officially set up, there was an older military camp. It was called "Camp on Janes' Farm." This camp was on a hill above Arcata. California Militia volunteers used it as early as 1858. They were involved in local conflicts often called the "Indian Wars" of that time.
Why Was Camp Curtis Needed?
Arcata was a busy place in the 1860s. It was a key point for moving goods from boats to pack trains. These pack trains carried supplies to mines further inland. A ferry helped people cross the Mad River (California) at a place called Essex.
In June 1862, an attack happened near this ferry. An older woman was killed, and a younger woman was hurt. Two men drowned while trying to escape. The ferry operator and three children survived safely. The injured woman said she saw at least one white man painted to look like an Indian during the attack. This event showed the need for better protection in the area.
Setting Up Camp Curtis
Because of these dangers, Captain Owsley arrived in 1862. He set up the official Camp Curtis on the same spot as the earlier volunteer camp. Captain Owsley and about 30 to 40 soldiers were given a clear mission. Their job was to prevent further attacks on citizens in that area. Camp Curtis became a central place for military operations and keeping the peace.
The Camp Curtis Marker
Today, a special bronze tablet marks where Camp Curtis once stood. You can find it in a bus turnaround area. This marker was placed on October 5, 1930.
It honors the soldiers who served there. These include Company E & I of the 2nd California Volunteer Infantry (1862-1863), Company B of the 1st Battalion Mountaineers Volunteer Infantry (1863-1864), and Company A of the 1st Battalion Native California Volunteer Cavalry (1864). The marker also remembers Marie Brizard Todd, a pioneer from 1847. The Pioneer Society of Humboldt County put up this marker.
Errors on the Marker
The historical marker has a couple of small mistakes. One is a spelling error: it says "Calvary" instead of "Cavalry." There's also a date error about Marie Brizard Todd. The marker says she was a pioneer of 1847. However, white settlers didn't arrive in the area until 1850. Also, her tombstone shows she was born in 1848, which is a year after the date on the tablet.
