Fort Robinson, Iowa

Wind River Canyon

Leaving the great metropolis of Thermopolis, we rather abruptly came to Wind River Canyon.What a magnificent sight!  Deep gorge, rushing river, high mountain walls - breathtaking scenery.
With all of this in our rear view mirror, we came upon the plains of Nebraska.
For our stopping point we stumbled upon Fort Robinson State Park.  Get ready for your history lesson...
Fort Robinson was established in 1873 as an outpost to fight against the Lakota Sioux tribe.
Crazy Horse was a Sioux warrior who led battles against the U.S. Calvary.  He participated in Custer’s battle at Little Big Horn - June 1876.  In May of 1877 Crazy Horse surrendered at Fort Robinson.  On September 5th he was fatally wounded by a bayonet in a scuffle at then guardhouse - the location of his killing remains with a reconstructed building.

Entrance to Fort Robinson

Moses “California Joe” Milner was the best friend of Wild Bill Hickok, who said “I have two friends; my six shooter and California Joe.”  Although the was not present at Little Big Horn, he was Custer’s favorite scout. In October of 1876, Milner was at Fort Robinson and got into a verbal argument with the post’s butcher.  Both men pulled their guns, but Joe said “Let’s put down our guns and have a drink.”  A few hours later the butcher shot California Joe in the back killing him.

Calvary Stables

The “Buffalo Soldiers”were an all African-American cavalry unit stationed at Fort Robinson after the Civil War.  They were nicknamed “Buffalo Soldiers” by the Indians because of the soldiers’ dark skin and curly black hair.
During World War 2, 3500 German POWs we’re detained at Fort Robinson.
What a great, historical spot!
History Class is over.  Quiz tomorrow.  Papers due Monday.