Fort Dodge & the Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867
As the fall of 1867 approached, new dimensions were being called for in the nation's Indian policy. The Hancock Campaign had failed both the Department of War and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The results of the futile Hancock Campaign were even less palatable to co-settlers of western Kansas and the Eastern advocates of fair play in dealing with the Indians. Moreover, a good portion of the national public had long since wearied of the unending bloodshed that gripped the plains annually from early spring until late fall.
Before the Hancock Campaign of 1867, the people of Kansas had stood firmly behind the army's conduct on the plains, even during the demanding Civil War years when the absence of adequate military protection had been sorely felt. However, the people of Kansas tolerance had worn thin during the previous season when neither Hancock nor the sentinel military posts along the frontier had proved capable of coping with the growing Indian menace.
Curiously enough, the Indian Commission had little difficulty reaching warring bands for council purposes, even while they were raiding on the catches. During the difficult months of August and September, when the Fort Dodge garrison had detachments continually in the field engaging war parties, preliminary peace talks were being held at the fort. Several chiefs of the hostile tribes before the general Council later called at Medicine Lodge Creek were involved in peace talks at Fort Dodge. |
Part One: Riding with Billy Dixon: A Whirlwind Journey through the American Wild West and the Monumental Medicine Lodge Peace Council
If you're fascinated by the American Wild West and the legendary characters who have come to symbolize this era, you'll be riveted by the life of Billy Dixon. Our latest podcast episode offers an immersive journey through Dixon's life as a government freight contractor, bullwacker, mule skinner, and significant figure in the historic Medicine Lodge Peace Council.
Billy Dixon was more than just an ordinary man trying to make a living in the challenging landscape of the Wild West. He was a skilled survivalist and a daring adventurer, often dodging brushes with Indian war parties and marveling at the grandeur of the Great Plains' buffalo herds. His firsthand experiences provide us with a vivid and raw perspective of life in the far west during the mid-1800s.
One of the key events in Billy's life was his participation in the Medicine Lodge Peace Council of 1867. This was a crucial moment in the history of Native American tribes and the U.S. Government, setting the stage for future relationships between these entities. As a freighter delivering supplies to the peace treaty site, Billy played an essential role in facilitating this monumental event.
The Medicine Lodge Peace Council was attended by over 5,000 Native Americans from five different tribes. The aim was to negotiate a peaceful co-existence between the Native tribes and the growing influx of settlers pushing westward. These negotiations were often tense, fraught with political maneuverings, and resulted in decisions that continue to shape the course of American history.
The podcast episode also delves into the individuals from the Indian Affairs Commission who played significant roles during the peace council. From Senator Henderson's persistent evidence-sifting to Commissioner N.G. Taylor's dedication to improving the social status of American Aboriginals, these figures were instrumental in shaping the outcome of the Council.
Billy Dixon's life serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and survival that defined the Wild West era. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fan of the Wild West, or simply someone who enjoys a gripping tale, this episode is sure to captivate and enlighten. It offers a fascinating glimpse into a time of transition and upheaval in America's history, framed by the experiences of one of its most intriguing characters.
Billy's story reminds us of the grit, determination, and courage that were necessary to survive and thrive in the untamed frontier. It highlights the complex interplay between the different cultures and forces shaping the American West, revealing a time and place of both conflict and change. So buckle up and prepare for a whirlwind journey through the wild, dust-filled trails of the American Wild West, as experienced by the remarkable Billy Dixon.
Billy Dixon was more than just an ordinary man trying to make a living in the challenging landscape of the Wild West. He was a skilled survivalist and a daring adventurer, often dodging brushes with Indian war parties and marveling at the grandeur of the Great Plains' buffalo herds. His firsthand experiences provide us with a vivid and raw perspective of life in the far west during the mid-1800s.
One of the key events in Billy's life was his participation in the Medicine Lodge Peace Council of 1867. This was a crucial moment in the history of Native American tribes and the U.S. Government, setting the stage for future relationships between these entities. As a freighter delivering supplies to the peace treaty site, Billy played an essential role in facilitating this monumental event.
The Medicine Lodge Peace Council was attended by over 5,000 Native Americans from five different tribes. The aim was to negotiate a peaceful co-existence between the Native tribes and the growing influx of settlers pushing westward. These negotiations were often tense, fraught with political maneuverings, and resulted in decisions that continue to shape the course of American history.
The podcast episode also delves into the individuals from the Indian Affairs Commission who played significant roles during the peace council. From Senator Henderson's persistent evidence-sifting to Commissioner N.G. Taylor's dedication to improving the social status of American Aboriginals, these figures were instrumental in shaping the outcome of the Council.
Billy Dixon's life serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and survival that defined the Wild West era. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fan of the Wild West, or simply someone who enjoys a gripping tale, this episode is sure to captivate and enlighten. It offers a fascinating glimpse into a time of transition and upheaval in America's history, framed by the experiences of one of its most intriguing characters.
Billy's story reminds us of the grit, determination, and courage that were necessary to survive and thrive in the untamed frontier. It highlights the complex interplay between the different cultures and forces shaping the American West, revealing a time and place of both conflict and change. So buckle up and prepare for a whirlwind journey through the wild, dust-filled trails of the American Wild West, as experienced by the remarkable Billy Dixon.
Part Two: Trail to Medicine Lodge: A Vivid Journey along the Santa Fe Trail and the Unveiling of the Indian Wars
The historic Santa Fe Trail was not just a pathway to new lands, but a vivid journey through an era of transformation and conflict. Our latest podcast episode, "Navigating the Wild West: A Vivid Journey along the Santa Fe Trail and the Unveiling of the Indian Wars," brings this vibrant period of history to life, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the remarkable tales of the Wild West.
Our journey begins along the Santa Fe Trail, a route that witnessed countless adventurers, traders, and settlers in the 19th century. We cross the Arkansas River, and our senses are immediately overwhelmed by the sight of buffalo herds that once roamed the plains in vast numbers. The grandeur of these herds is symbolic of the untouched wildness that defined the American West before its widespread settlement.
Politics was a daunting aspect of this era. One of the most compelling narratives of our journey is an order from General Sherman, a pivotal figure in American military history. The order puts us in a challenging position, heightening the sense of uncertainty and danger that often marked interactions between Native Americans and settlers.
Our journey further takes us to the Medicine Lodge Treaty council grounds. Here, we meet legendary Indian chiefs like Satanta and Black Kettle. Their leadership in a time of intense conflict and change underscores the resilience and strength of Native American cultures in the face of adversity.
Beyond the Santa Fe Trail, our exploration extends into the broader landscape of the Wild West, particularly through the lens of the Indian Wars. We delve into this tumultuous period guided by Michael King's illuminating book. King's detailed account allows us to understand the dynamics between settlers, soldiers, and Native Americans from a grounded and empathetic perspective.
In the context of the Kansas expansion, we explore legendary events such as the Battle of Beecher Island. We learn about the Cheyenne Indians, one of the most prominent tribes of the Great Plains. Their encounters with settlers provide valuable insights into the complexities of this period, which was characterized by cultural clashes and attempts at coexistence.
Despite the challenges and conflicts, the Santa Fe Trail era was also marked by resilience, adaptation, and survival. As we journey through this episode, we gain a nuanced understanding of the Wild West, moving beyond the stereotypical narratives to explore the rich, diverse experiences of those who lived, struggled, and thrived during this remarkable era of American history.
Through vivid storytelling and historical insights, "Navigating the Wild West: A Vivid Journey along the Santa Fe Trail and the Unveiling of the Indian Wars" invites listeners to reassess the history we think we know. It offers an engaging and enlightening exploration of the Wild West, making history feel alive and relevant to our modern world.
Our journey begins along the Santa Fe Trail, a route that witnessed countless adventurers, traders, and settlers in the 19th century. We cross the Arkansas River, and our senses are immediately overwhelmed by the sight of buffalo herds that once roamed the plains in vast numbers. The grandeur of these herds is symbolic of the untouched wildness that defined the American West before its widespread settlement.
Politics was a daunting aspect of this era. One of the most compelling narratives of our journey is an order from General Sherman, a pivotal figure in American military history. The order puts us in a challenging position, heightening the sense of uncertainty and danger that often marked interactions between Native Americans and settlers.
Our journey further takes us to the Medicine Lodge Treaty council grounds. Here, we meet legendary Indian chiefs like Satanta and Black Kettle. Their leadership in a time of intense conflict and change underscores the resilience and strength of Native American cultures in the face of adversity.
Beyond the Santa Fe Trail, our exploration extends into the broader landscape of the Wild West, particularly through the lens of the Indian Wars. We delve into this tumultuous period guided by Michael King's illuminating book. King's detailed account allows us to understand the dynamics between settlers, soldiers, and Native Americans from a grounded and empathetic perspective.
In the context of the Kansas expansion, we explore legendary events such as the Battle of Beecher Island. We learn about the Cheyenne Indians, one of the most prominent tribes of the Great Plains. Their encounters with settlers provide valuable insights into the complexities of this period, which was characterized by cultural clashes and attempts at coexistence.
Despite the challenges and conflicts, the Santa Fe Trail era was also marked by resilience, adaptation, and survival. As we journey through this episode, we gain a nuanced understanding of the Wild West, moving beyond the stereotypical narratives to explore the rich, diverse experiences of those who lived, struggled, and thrived during this remarkable era of American history.
Through vivid storytelling and historical insights, "Navigating the Wild West: A Vivid Journey along the Santa Fe Trail and the Unveiling of the Indian Wars" invites listeners to reassess the history we think we know. It offers an engaging and enlightening exploration of the Wild West, making history feel alive and relevant to our modern world.
Treaty's Terms
The Medicine Lodge Treaty of October 21, 1867, which occurred seventy miles south of Fort Larned, in the State of Kansas, between the United States of America, represented by its commissioners and the Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache Indians, represented by their chiefs and headmen duly authorized and empowered to act for the body of the people of said tribes. At the end of the Medicine Lodge Treaty, Captain Barnitz of the 7th Cavalry, who was present during the treaty signing, wrote in his journal a poignant entry regarding all that had transpired in late October:
“After the council the Cheyennes were with great difficulty persuaded to sign the treaty. They were superstitious in regard to touching the pen, or perhaps supposed that by doing so they would be ‘signing away their rights’ – which is doubtless the true state of affairs, as they have no idea that they are giving up, or that they have ever given up the country which they claim as their own, the country north of the Arkansas. The treaty all amounts to nothing, and we will certainly have another war sooner or later with the Cheyennes, at least, and probably with the other Indians, in consequence of misunderstanding of the terms of present and previous treaties.
“After the council the Cheyennes were with great difficulty persuaded to sign the treaty. They were superstitious in regard to touching the pen, or perhaps supposed that by doing so they would be ‘signing away their rights’ – which is doubtless the true state of affairs, as they have no idea that they are giving up, or that they have ever given up the country which they claim as their own, the country north of the Arkansas. The treaty all amounts to nothing, and we will certainly have another war sooner or later with the Cheyennes, at least, and probably with the other Indians, in consequence of misunderstanding of the terms of present and previous treaties.
By the treaty's terms, the signatory tribes relinquished all claims to the plains between the Platte and Arkansas Rivers, including the privilege of seasonal hunting. The Comanches, Kiowas, and Apaches were given a reservation within the western Indian Territory between the Red and Washita Rivers. At the same time, the Cheyennes and Arapahoes were placed on a track directly to the north, between the Red and Arkansas Rivers. The commission also promised to provide seeds, farming implements, and supervisors to help establish the tribes agriculturally.
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The Government represenatives of the Peace Commission, who were high-ranking US senators and military leaders, explained to the Indians that both sides agreed to certain things by signing the treaty. The Indians would be protected from the white hunters. They would be provided with schools, churches, and farming tools. They would receive food and clothing every year. They would be taught the white man's way of living. Farmers would come and live with them and teach them how to plow. The plains would no longer be one big reservation divided among the tribes. Instead, all of the Indians would move to their own reservations. All of the reservations would be in the Indian Nations. This was in the western part of present-day Oklahoma. The Indians had to agree to give up all of their rights to their native lands.
At the end of the Council, the massive pile of boxes was opened by the Indians, Blankets, food, clothing, and surprisingly enough, a large number of guns, ammunition, and hunting knives were distributed to the tribes. When the terms of the Treaty of Medicine Lodge reached Fort Dodge, the garrison immediately recognized that the post had been given a difficult military mission for the future. A definite line had been established between the Indians and the settler's frontier across southern Kansas. Thus, for several years to come, whenever bands of malcontents decided to break out of their reservations and move northward via the Cimarron toward their old buffalo hunting grounds, orders would be sent to the post to "hold the line of Arkansas."