Wounded Knee Battlefield facts for kids
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Wounded Knee Battlefield
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 Location in South Dakota
Location in the United States
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| Location | Pine Ridge Indian Reservation |
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| Nearest city | 11 miles west of Batesland, South Dakota |
| Area | 870 acres (350 ha) |
| Built | 1890 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000719 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | December 21, 1965 |
The Wounded Knee Battlefield is a very important historical place. It is also known simply as Wounded Knee. This site in South Dakota, United States, was where the sad event called the Wounded Knee Massacre happened in 1890.
This area is a special part of American history. It helps us remember what happened and learn from the past.
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What is Wounded Knee Battlefield?
The Wounded Knee Battlefield covers about 870 acres (350 ha). This is like 650 football fields! Because of its importance, it was named a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1965.
A National Historic Landmark is a place recognized by the U.S. government. It means the site has special meaning to the history of the country.
In 1966, Wounded Knee Battlefield was also added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This program helps protect important historical sites across the nation.
Why is it a Landmark?
To become a National Historic Landmark, experts study the site's history. For Wounded Knee, they talked to Native American representatives. They also interviewed four descendants of people involved in the 1890 events.
These interviews helped add important oral history to the site's story. This makes sure different viewpoints are included.
What Can You See There?
The Wounded Knee Battlefield has several important features. The main part is the actual area where the massacre took place. This includes where a post office and a store once stood.
There is also a monument from 1903. This monument helps people remember the events of that time.
Other Buildings and Sites
Around the main historical area, there are some other buildings. These include a log church built in 1975 and a small house. There is also a visitors center from 1989.
Some other older buildings and foundations are also on the site. These include parts of old stores and churches. While they are part of the area, the main focus is on the original massacre site and the monument.
Visiting the Site
Today, there is a museum at the Wounded Knee Battlefield. The museum helps visitors understand the history of the massacre. It teaches about the events and their impact.
The National Historic Landmark program checks on the site regularly. As of 2010, they noted that the area needed more care. They recommended that the owners keep up with regular maintenance.
