Camp Santa Catalina Island facts for kids
Camp Santa Catalina Island was a temporary military camp built in 1864. It was located on Santa Catalina Island, off the coast of California. This camp was set up during the American Civil War to protect the West Coast.
Why the Camp Was Built
In 1863, there was a concern about enemy ships attacking American trade along the coast. One event involved a ship called the J. M. Chapman, which was trying to act as a privateer. A privateer was like a privately owned warship allowed to attack enemy ships. To prevent such attacks, the government decided to create a military base on Santa Catalina Island. This base would help protect the harbor and keep it safe from any hostile forces.
Setting Up the Camp
In December 1863, the government approved the creation of a military camp on the island. The military commander was given the power to ask people to leave the island if they didn't have permission to stay. On January 1, 1864, a group of soldiers from Company C, 4th California Infantry, arrived. They were led by Captain West. The camp was officially set up on January 2, 1864. After this, no new settlers were allowed to move to the island.
An Idea for a Reservation
Around the same time, in December 1863, a general named General Wright had another idea for the island. He suggested that Santa Catalina Island could become a reservation for Native American tribes. These tribes were living in northwestern California, in an area called the Humboldt Military District. This idea was considered as a way to establish peace and a designated area for these tribes.
Why the Camp Closed
The soldiers stayed at Camp Santa Catalina Island until December 1864. By then, all government property was removed from the camp. The camp was no longer needed for a few reasons. First, peace agreements were made with the Native American tribes in northwestern California in August 1864. A reservation was established for them there. Second, the threat of enemy privateers attacking West Coast trade had decreased. The danger of foreign countries getting involved in the war also faded. Because of these changes, the need for a strong port defense on Santa Catalina Island was no longer as urgent.
