Fort Neoheroka facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Neoheroka Fort Site
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Fort Neoheroka historical marker near Snow Hill, North Carolina
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 Location in North Carolina
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Snow Hill, North Carolina |
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| Area | 37 acres (15 ha) |
| Built | 1713 |
| NRHP reference No. | 09000529 |
| Added to NRHP | July 17, 2009 |
Fort Neoheroka was a strong fort built by the Tuscarora people. It was located in what is now Greene County, North Carolina. The Tuscarora built it during the Tuscarora War, which lasted from 1711 to 1715.
The fort was a very important place in March 1713. A large army attacked it. This army was made up of colonial soldiers from South Carolina. Many Native American allies, like the Yamasee, Apalachee, Catawba, and Cherokee, also joined the attack.
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What Was Fort Neoheroka?
Fort Neoheroka was a special kind of fort. It was built by the Tuscarora tribe. They built it to protect themselves during a big conflict. This conflict was known as the Tuscarora War. The fort was located in a place that is now Greene County, North Carolina.
The Tuscarora people called it Neyuherú·kęʼ in their own language. The fort was a strong defense. It helped them try to hold their ground.
The Tuscarora War
The Tuscarora War was a fight between the Tuscarora tribe and European settlers. It also involved other Native American tribes. The war happened from 1711 to 1715. It was a very difficult time for the Tuscarora. They were trying to keep their land and way of life.
The war started because of disagreements over land. There were also issues with trade and unfair treatment. The Tuscarora were once the most powerful Native American tribe in North Carolina.
The Battle of Fort Neoheroka
The main battle at Fort Neoheroka happened in March 1713. An army led by Colonel James Moore attacked the fort. This army included soldiers from South Carolina. Many Native American allies helped them. These allies included the Yamasee, Apalachee, Catawba, and Cherokee tribes.
The attack on the fort lasted for more than three weeks. It began around March 1 and ended on March 22, 1713. The fighting was very intense.
The Siege and Attack
During the siege, the attacking army surrounded the fort. They tried to break down its defenses. Finally, they launched a big attack. Many people were inside the fort. This included men, women, and children.
The fort caught fire during the attack. Many people inside died in the fire. Others were killed trying to escape. About 400 people were captured. They were then taken to South Carolina. There, they were forced into slavery.
After the Battle
The defeat at Fort Neoheroka was a major turning point. It greatly weakened the Tuscarora tribe. Their power in North Carolina was broken forever. Many Tuscarora survivors moved north. They went to live with the Iroquois tribes.
This battle also changed North Carolina. It opened up the land for more European settlers. The Fort Neoheroka Site is now a historic place. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 17, 2009. This means it is an important historical location.
