Francisco Chacon (Jicarilla chief) facts for kids

Francisco Chacon was an important Jicarilla Apache chief. He was a key leader during the Jicarilla uprising in 1854. He led his people in battles against the United States Army.

Francisco Chacon: A Jicarilla Apache Leader

Francisco Chacon was a respected chief of the Jicarilla Apache tribe. He played a big role in defending his people during a time of conflict. This period is known as the Jicarilla uprising of 1854.

The Battle of Cieneguilla

One of Francisco Chacon's most famous victories was the Battle of Cieneguilla. In this battle, the Jicarilla, led by Francisco Chacon and another leader named Flechas Rayadas, fought against a group of US soldiers. These soldiers were from the First Regiment of Dragoons.

The Jicarilla warriors used flintlock rifles and arrows. They bravely fought the 60 dragoon soldiers. The Jicarilla won the battle, killing 22 soldiers and wounding 36 others. The remaining soldiers had to retreat to Ranchos de Taos. They lost 22 horses and most of their supplies.

The Pursuit and Further Battles

After the defeat, Lieutenant Colonel Philip St. George Cooke of the 2nd Dragoons Regiment quickly went after the Jicarilla. He had help from 32 Pueblo Indian and Mexican scouts. A famous guide named Kit Carson also joined the pursuit.

They chased the Jicarilla through the mountains during winter. On April 8, Cooke's soldiers found the Jicarilla camp in the canyon of Ojo Caliente. Flechas Rayadas offered to make peace. He said the Jicarilla would return the horses and guns they had taken. However, the soldiers did not accept this offer.

Cooke's troops then fought the tribal members at their camp. The Jicarilla split into smaller groups to escape. They managed to avoid further pursuit. But many Jicarilla people sadly died from the very harsh, cold weather.

Later, a large group of soldiers led by Major James H. Carleton fought the Jicarillas again. This battle happened near Fisher's Peak in the Raton Mountains. Several Jicarilla warriors were killed. Francisco Chacon tried to set up an ambush for the soldiers with 150 warriors. However, the soldiers managed to get around the ambush. Five Jicarilla warriors were killed, and six were wounded. Seventeen women and children were scattered. They likely died from cold and hunger while trying to escape.

Seeking Peace

In May, Francisco Chacon sent a message to Santa Fe. He wanted to make peace. He later surrendered at a place called Abiquiu. This marked the end of the main fighting in the Jicarilla uprising.