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Washita Battlefield National Historic Site protects and interprets the
site of the Southern Cheyenne village of Peace Chief Black Kettle that was
attacked by the 7th U.S. Cavalry under Lt. Col. George A. Custer just before
dawn on November 27, 1868. The controversial strike was hailed at the time
by the military and many civilians as a significant victory aimed at reducing
Indian raids on frontier settlements. Washita remains controversial because
many Indians and whites labeled Custer's attack a massacre. Black Kettle
is still honored as a prominent leader who never ceased striving for peace
even though it cost him his life.
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, though small in acreage, is
relatively diverse ecologically. Located within its borders one can find
upland mixed-grass prairie, wooded "benches" rising above grassy
historic floodplains, a biologically significant riparian corridor, and
dramatic outcropings of pink gypsum. The viewscape immediately north of
the park is even more dramatic, being comprised of deep red shale outcroppings
set against the western Oklahoma sky.
The perennially flowing Washita River winding through the quiet grasslands
of the now peaceful battlefield makes the park a haven for wild creatures.
Though most are secretive in their activities, among the most noticeable
inhabitants are birds. Raptors, such as the American kestrel, the red-tailed
hawk, and the Swainson's hawk are often seen gliding overhead scouting for
one of the park's many mice or rat species. Other distinctive birds, such
as the western meadowlark, the northern bobwhite, the scissor-tailed flycatcher,
and the wild turkey are usually found closer to earth.
Some animals are more likely to be encountered only indirectly. For example,
a badger or armadillos' burrow, a beaver's lodge, or a racoon's tracks may
be as close as one gets to these mammals. On the other hand, a white-tailed
deer may burst from the brush, startling you as much as you have surprised
it!
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