Fort Baker (Humboldt County) facts for kids
Fort Baker was a small military outpost in Humboldt County, California. It was used by the Union Army during the American Civil War from 1862 to 1863. The fort played a part in a local conflict called the Bald Hills War.
Fort Baker was located about 14 miles (23 km) east of Bridgeville. It was on the west side of the Van Duzen Creek in Larabee Valley. Today, you can't see any signs of the fort. Frequent floods have washed away the original site.
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Why Fort Baker Was Built
Colonel Francis J. Lippitt was the leader of the Humboldt Military District. He decided to build Fort Baker. It was one of several forts set up to protect settlers in the area. These forts helped keep peace and order during a time of conflict.
The Bald Hills War
The Bald Hills War was a conflict between settlers and some Native American groups. Fort Baker was important in this war. Soldiers from the fort regularly patrolled the area. Their goal was to make sure the region was safe.
A Surrender at the Fort
One important event happened at Fort Baker on July 31, 1862. A Native American leader named Lassic and his group, the Wailaki band, surrendered there. More warriors from other groups also came in later.
In total, 212 captured Native Americans were held at Fort Baker. They were then sent to Fort Humboldt. From there, 850 captured people were moved to the Smith River Reservation. Many thought the war was almost over after this. However, Lassic and other warriors managed to escape, and the conflict continued.
The End of Fort Baker
By September 7, 1863, officials decided to close Fort Baker. They planned to replace it with a new fort called Fort Iaqua. Fort Baker was left empty before the end of 1863.
The Fort is Burned
On May 11 or 12, 1864, Fort Baker was burned down. No one knows for sure who did it. Some people thought it might have been supporters of the Confederate side. Others believed Native Americans might have been responsible.
