Custer Military Trail Historic Archaeological District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Custer Military Trail Historic Archeological District
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Easy Hill Camp
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| Location | Address restricted |
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| Nearest city | Medora, North Dakota |
| Area | 18,149 acres (7,345 ha) |
| Built | 1864 |
| NRHP reference No. | 08001293 |
| Added to NRHP | June 5, 2009 |
The Custer Military Trail Historic Archeological District is a special historical area in North Dakota. It covers a huge area of about 18,149 acres in Billings and Golden Valley Counties. This district protects five important historical places connected to the Plains Indian War from 1864 to 1876.
This historic district was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009. This means it is recognized as a place important to the history of the United States.
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What is the Custer Military Trail?
The Custer Military Trail Historic Archeological District is a protected area. It helps us remember and learn about events from the past. Specifically, it focuses on the Plains Indian War, which took place between 1864 and 1876. This was a time of conflict between the United States military and Native American tribes on the Great Plains.
The district includes parts of a military supply trail. This trail was used by soldiers to move supplies and equipment. It also includes several places where important events happened during these conflicts.
Key Historic Sites Along the Trail
The district protects five different historical sites. These sites help historians and archaeologists understand what happened during the Plains Indian War.
Initial Rock: A Soldier's Mark
One of the most interesting sites is called Initial Rock. This is a place where George Custer's 7th Cavalry Regiment camped. They stayed here on May 28, 1876. This was while they were on their way to the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
At Initial Rock, two soldiers from Custer's regiment left their mark. Their names were W. C. Williams and F. Neely. They carved their initials into a sandstone boulder. This carving is still visible today. It is a direct link to the soldiers who passed through this area long ago.
Military Campsites and Battlegrounds
Besides Initial Rock, the district includes two other military campsites. These camps show where soldiers rested and prepared during their journeys. They give us clues about how the military operated at that time.
The district also protects the site of the Battle of the Badlands. This battle was a significant event during the Plains Indian War. It took place in the rugged landscape of the Badlands. Preserving this site helps us study the strategies and events of the conflict.
The Military Supply Trail
A key part of the district is sections of a military supply trail. This trail was vital for the army. It allowed them to transport food, weapons, and other necessary items. These trails were like the highways of their time. They connected different military posts and battle areas. Studying these trails helps us understand the logistics of military operations in the Old West.
