Wiseman massacre facts for kids

The Wiseman massacre was a very sad event that happened on July 24, 1863. Five children from the Wiseman family died in what is now Cedar County, Nebraska. Their parents were Henson and Phoebe Wiseman. The children who passed away were Arthur (16), Hannah (14), Andrew (9), William "Henry" (8), and Loren (4). This tragedy took place about 3 miles east of a place called St. James, Nebraska.

The Wiseman Family Tragedy

This section tells the story of the Wiseman family and the difficult events they faced.

What Happened to the Family?

In 1862, the children's father, Henson Wiseman, joined the army. He was part of the 2nd Nebraska Cavalry. In the spring of 1863, his army group was sent far away. They were ordered to travel along the Missouri River. This was during a time when there were conflicts between settlers and some Native American groups.

Settlers in the area were worried. They feared that with many men away in the army, their families might be in danger. Army leaders told them that soldiers at nearby forts would protect them.

Phoebe's Difficult Journey

On July 21, Phoebe Cross Wiseman, the children's mother, left home. She went to the town of Yankton to buy supplies. Yankton was about 9 miles away by road. She traveled with a man who offered rides.

Phoebe stayed overnight in a few different places. She bought her supplies in Yankton and started her journey back home. On her way, a big thunderstorm hit. She had to leave her purchases in St. James. She was confused why her oldest son, Arthur, hadn't come to meet her.

Phoebe decided to walk home through the mud. As she got closer, she was surprised. None of her children or even the family dog came out to greet her. This was very unusual.

A Shocking Discovery

When Phoebe reached their two log cabins, she saw books on the ground. Then, she noticed blood on the door handle. As she ran to the door, she tripped. She had stumbled over the body of her 8-year-old son, William "Henry".

When she finally reached the door, she saw the body of a Native American person inside. There were signs of a struggle. Phoebe was terrified. She thought the attackers might still be nearby. She quickly fled the scene. She ran back to St. James through the bushes and muddy areas.

The men in St. James were hesitant to go back to the cabins right away. They waited until the next day to investigate.

The Aftermath

It was believed that four Santee Native Americans were responsible for the attack, but this was never fully proven. Members of the Yankton Band of Sioux may also have been involved.

Henson Wiseman, the father, was far away with the army when the tragedy happened. He was told the news on August 4th, over 200 miles from his home. He immediately rode day and night to get back.

When Henson arrived, he learned that Phoebe was overcome with grief. She had wandered off, and no one knew where she was. Henson finally found her 28 days after the massacre, near a creek by Ponca. He eventually took her away from the area. They returned to Virginia for almost a year.

Their only child who survived was 18-year-old John Wiseman. He was serving in the Union Army at the time. Phoebe was also three months pregnant when she found her children. She later gave birth to a baby boy named Richard in March 1864. Phoebe and Henson had one more child three years later, a daughter named Laura.

Henson Wiseman lived a long life and passed away on February 19, 1912, at the age of 94.