Connor Battlefield State Historic Site

In the summer of 1865, the territory of Plains Indian groups was becoming progressively restricted as waves of white settlers headed westward, causing increased tension on the frontier.  Against this backdrop, the mission of General Patrick E. Connor, Commander of the Powder River Expedition, was clear: attack the Indians in retribution and force them into submission to maintain peace.  On August 29th, Connor’s force of soldiers and Pawnee scouts attacked the village of Arapaho leader Black Bear camped along the Tongue River.  Caught by surprise, the Arapaho warriors suffered 64 casualties, lost several hundred ponies, and were driven 10 miles up Wolf Creek.  Eventually, Black Bear’s forces compelled the soldiers to depart, and Connor’s forces were attacked for several days as they withdrew down the Tongue River.  Connor’s attack proved influential, though it did not have its intended effect.  Instead of maintaining the peace, Connor’s actions caused the Arapaho to attack the Sawyers Expedition and become involved in several more conflicts over the next decade.  Today, quiet shade along the banks of the Tongue River awaits visitors to Connor Battlefield.  Come camp, fish, and reflect on the events that occurred nearly 150 years ago at the monument that now stands at the site.

Protect Our Heritage!
Help preserve the Connor Battlefield monument and site for future generations by not picking up or removing artifacts or historic objects.

To report vandalism, call:

Fort Kearny Office
307-684-7629