The Battle of Washita: A First-Hand Account

The Battle of Washita, fought on November 27, 1868, was a pivotal moment in the history of the American West. It marked a turning point in the conflict between the United States Army and the Southern Plains tribes, particularly the Cheyenne and the Kiowa. This battle, while a victory for the US Army, also left a lasting impact on the Native American communities involved.

One of the most powerful accounts of the Battle of Washita comes from Corporal Leander Herron, a soldier in the 7th Cavalry under the command of Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer. Herron’s story, as told in his own words, provides a vivid glimpse into the brutality and chaos of the battle. He describes the surprise attack by the Cheyenne warriors, the fierce resistance of the US Army, and the tragic loss of life on both sides.

A Soldier’s Perspective

In his account, Corporal Herron recounts the events of the morning of November 27th. He describes how the soldiers were awakened by the sound of gunfire and the cries of their comrades. The Cheyenne warriors, led by Chief Black Kettle, had launched a surprise attack on the Army camp, their aim being to disrupt the US Army’s campaign against the Southern Plains tribes.

Herron’s account is chilling in its detail. He describes the close-quarters fighting, the bravery of the soldiers, and the desperation of the situation. He also recounts the loss of life, the sight of fallen comrades, and the sense of shock that gripped the soldiers as they realized the full extent of the Cheyenne’s attack.

“The Cheyenne were like a swarm of angry hornets,” Herron stated in his interview. “They came at us from all directions, firing their rifles and yelling their war cries. We were caught completely off guard. We had no time to form a proper defense. It was every man for himself.”

The Aftermath

Despite the Cheyenne’s initial advantage, the US Army, under the leadership of Custer, eventually prevailed. The Cheyenne were forced to retreat, leaving behind a significant number of casualties. The Battle of Washita was a decisive victory for the US Army, but it came at a heavy cost. The battle marked the end of the Cheyenne’s resistance in the Southern Plains and led to the forced relocation of many Cheyenne and Kiowa families to reservations.

Corporal Herron’s account of the Battle of Washita is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war. It highlights the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers involved, but it also emphasizes the deep human suffering caused by conflict. The battle serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting the diverse perspectives on historical events and the enduring impact of conflict on all those involved.

Importance of Historical Accounts

Primary sources like Corporal Herron’s account are vital for understanding historical events. They provide a personal and often raw perspective that can be difficult to glean from official accounts or secondary sources. These accounts offer a glimpse into the human experience of war, the emotions, and the hardships faced by those who fought and those who were caught in the crossfire. They also help us to understand the complex and often conflicting narratives surrounding historical events.

By studying these primary sources, we can gain a deeper understanding of the past and its impact on the present. We can learn from the mistakes of the past and work towards a future where such conflicts are avoided. The Battle of Washita, while a tragic event, serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the past and working towards a more peaceful future.