A Little-Known Slice Of Oklahoma History Can Be Found At This Battlefield
By Ashley|Published January 25, 2024
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Ashley
Author
Ashley has lived in Oklahoma for 30 years and is the Oklahoma staff writer for onlyinyourstate.com. When she isn't writing about Oklahoma, she enjoys visiting the beach and exploring new areas.
Step into the rich history of Mayes County as we uncover the mysteries shrouding Cabin Creek Battlefield. This unassuming site, nestled in the tranquil landscape, silently holds the secrets of a significant clash during the Civil War. Beyond its serene facade lies a compelling narrative that stretches back to July 1863, when Union and Confederate forces clashed, leaving an indelible mark on the quiet expanse. Join us as we delve into this lesser-known chapter, exploring the hidden tales that echo through the hills of present-day Oklahoma.
So, what happened at this battlefield?Col. James M. Williams led a Union supply train from Fort Scott, Kansas, to Fort Gibson in Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma) on July 1-2, 1863. He found himself entangled in skirmishes with Confederate Cherokee Indian Col. Stand Watie and his forces at Cabin Creek.
What makes this battle particularly noteworthy is that it marked the first time African American soldiers, the 1st Kansas Colored Infantry, fought side by side with their white counterparts.
The Union emerged victorious, thanks to Col. Williams' strategic moves based on information from captured Confederate soldiers. Artillery fire and two cavalry charges drove off Watie and his forces, allowing the Union supply column to continue its journey to Fort Gibson.
This triumph had far-reaching consequences, enhancing the Union's presence in Indian Territory and contributing to subsequent victories, such as the Battle of Honey Springs and the capture of Fort Smith.
Cabin Creek Battlefield, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a testament to the struggles and triumphs of that era. Situated along the Texas Road—a historic trail from Kansas to Texas—the battlefield offers a glimpse into the past.
The land, once occupied by Cherokee leader Joseph Lynch "Greenbriar Joe" Martin, witnessed not only the battles but also the convergence of American Indians, explorers, the US Army, pioneers, trail herds, and traders.
Visitors can explore this historical site daily from 8:00 a.m. to dusk, free of charge. The Cabin Creek Battlefield stands as a living museum, with a circle drive loop providing access to monuments and signage narrating the site's story.
In 2012, preservation measures secured 86.5 acres through private fundraising and a Battlefield Protection grant. The Oklahoma Historical Society now administers this 96.5-acre historic site, ensuring that the stories of the Battle of Cabin Creek endure for generations to come.
