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Washita Battlefield National Historic SiteSunset on Battlefield in Winter, NPS Photo
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Washita

The site protects and interprets the setting along the Washita River where Lt. Col. George A. Custer led the 7th U.S. Cavalry on a surprise dawn attack against the Southern Cheyenne village of Peace Chief Black Kettle on November 27, 1868. The attack was an important event in the tragic clash of cultures of the Indian Wars era.

 
 
Main entrance to the visitors center.

New park visitor center

Come see our new visitor center and learn more about the clash of cultures between the U.S. Army and the Southern Cheyenne in 1868.
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Saturday, April 4, 2009, 6:30pm

An Evening with Paul A. Hutton and W. Richard West, Jr.

We invite you to come out and enjoy an evening with two well known speakers, Dr Paul A. Hutton and Mr. W. Richard West, Jr. Dr.

Hutton, a professor of history at the University of New Mexico will share his insight on the attack with his talk on "Custer and the Washita," with an emphasis on how the attack reflected the emerging military policy for the West.

Mr. W. Richard West, Jr., the Founding Director Emeritus of the Smithsonian`s National Museum of the American Indian, will be sharing his insight on the "Native Americans in the 21st Century: Out of the Mists and Beyond Myth." In his talk, Mr. West will describe the struggle of American Indians to keep alive cultural traditions and will discuss the role of American Indians in today`s world.
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Saturday, April 25,2009
9:30 am - 3:00 pm

Junior Ranger Day

Jr. Ranger Day is an annual event that promotes kids in the parks. We invite you and your kids to come out Saturday, April 25, from 9:30 am - 3:00 pm, to learn about the history of Washita Battlefield National Historic Site. This day is geared toward the kids. We will have games and crafts for all ages. We hope to see you there!!!

 

Write to

Rt.1 Box 55a
Cheyenne, Oklahoma 73628

E-mail Us

Phone

Headquarters
(580) 497-2742

Fax

(580) 497-2712

Climate

The Historic Site has a continental climate characterized by cool winters and hot summers with large variations from day to day. Annual precipitation is approximately 23 inches. Strong winds accompany the passages of cold fronts. Temperatures can be anywhere from less than 0°F in the winter and highs are capable of reaching more than 100°F in the summer months. Elevation is approximately 2,000 feet. Humidity can be high. We suggest bringing clothes for any occasion.
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Orange Sunshine  

Did You Know?
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site is building a new Cultural Heritage Center. Here, the late fall sun shines on its walls.

Last Updated: March 26, 2009 at 14:08 EST