Washita Battlefield National Historic Site
Description
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site | |
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Established | November 12, 1996 |
Visitors | 14,215 (in 2004) |
The Washita Battlefield National Historic Site is located just a few miles west of the town of Cheyenne, on the north side of Oklahoma State Highway 47. The main body of the site is located between SR 47A and the Washita River, with the visitor center located near the junction of 47 and 47A. It is completely surrounded by the Black Kettle National Grassland, and consists mainly of open prairie, with strips of trees in the riparian area of the river. Trails lead from the parking area on 47A through the park. The visitor center features exhibits about the battle, the soldiers and the Cheyenne, as well as a film and a bookstore.
The area that the historic site encompasses is part of a 315.2-acre memorial associated with the 1868 Battle of Washita River. Landscape areas mainly to the east, north, and south include ridge lines that were the areas from which Custer's attack was launched. Portions of the battlefield extend into Cheyenne, and have been compromised by the construction of roads and railroads through the area. The historic site includes one of the largest and best-preserved tracts, including the village of the Cheyenne, which was the focal point of the battle.
See also
- List of National Historic Landmarks in Oklahoma
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Roger Mills County, Oklahoma