Archeological Interpretation of the Frontier Battle at Mud Springs, Nebraska

Authors

Peter Bleed, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Douglas D. Scott, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2009

Comments

Published in Great Plains Research 19.1 (Spring 2009): 13-25. © 2009 Copyright by the Center for Great Plains Studies, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Abstract

Between February 4 and 7, 1865, Cheyenne, Sioux, and Arapaho warriors engaged a force of U.S. Army soldiers at Mud Springs, Nebraska. Historical records from both sides indicate that this fight marked an early phase of the Indian Wars. Based on systematic metal detections, firearms identification, and terrain analysis, this paper adds archeological insights into the arms and tactics used by the opposing sides. Well-armed Native fighters used terrain to approach U.S. troops, who maintained a defensive posture. U.S. soldiers appear to have dug a rifle pit to see approaching attackers.