An interesting bit of history, certainly famous, with the NM only getting its current name in 1991 from Custer NM. Anyone in their 60s in USA was taught that the Native American Indians were bloodthirsty ignorant savages. Attitudes today have for many changed and the site is more about recording the losses on both sides and the power of peace. The NM memorialises a major battle fought on June 25^th 1876 between Lakota, Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians against the US 7^th Cavalry. This battle marks the loss of traditional Native American life forever; although they won the battle, the Indians lost the war. It is the only battlefield with grave markers literally where the combatants fell. The US army officers have had their remains removed and interned elsewhere (those believed to be Custer barely filled a hat). The walk to ‘Last Stand Hill’ and the ‘Indian Memorial’ was short but enjoyable. The Ranger’s talk dismissed many myths about the battle, including that there were no survivors.

Almost a plague of these!

Pompey’s Pillar NM

Yet more history lessons on Lewis and Clark as they continue their journey mapping the American west for routes and natural resources. This time concentrating on Clark’s side trip to chart the Missouri. Another Junior Ranger badge.

old graffiti