Oklahoma Historical Society | Cabin Creek Battlefield
About this place
Cabin Creek Battlefield was the site of two key Civil War battles in Indian Territory. The site is located along the Texas Road, a historic trail from Kansas to Texas used by American Indians, the US Army, trail herds, and traders. The surrounding land was home to prominent Cherokee Joseph Lynch “Greenbriar Joe” Martin. The First Battle of Cabin Creek (July 1–2, 1863) saw Colonel Stand Watie’s Confederates try to seize a Federal supply train. Union forces under Colonel James Williams, including the Third Indian Home Guard and 1st Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry, blocked the attack with artillery and cavalry charges. The second battle occurred on September 19, 1864. Brigadier Generals Richard Gano and Stand Watie led a night attack on a Federal encampment near Cabin Creek, capturing 130 wagons and supplies. The victory marked the last major Civil War engagement in Indian Territory. A circle drive loop provides access to monuments and interpretive signage across 96.5 acres.