Pea Ridge National Military Park
The Battle of Pea Ridge, March 7 & 8, 1862, was the first battle of the Civil War in which Indian troops participated. About 1,000 Cherokee, the 1st and 2nd Cherokee Mounted Rifles, fought for the Confederate Army led by Brigadier General Albert Pike. During the battle, these two Cherokee regiments routed two companies of the 3rd Iowa Cavalry. Stand Watie, a Cherokee Colonel, commanded the 2nd Cherokee Mounted Rifles.
Watie was promoted to Brigadier General in May 1864, making him the highest ranking Indian in the Confederate Army.
The Civil War ended on April 9, 1865, with General Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House. However, the Indian troops reserved the right to surrender on their own terms. It wasn't until June 23, 1865 that Stand Watie surrendered, making him the last Confederate General to surrender.
The Battle of Pea Ridge was the only major battle in which Watie fought.
Access: Open year-round 8a.m. to 5p.m. every day of the week. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Stay: Pea Ridge is just north of Rogers, Arkansas. If you're looking for a comfortable place to stay the night, check out BedandBreakfast.com for a selection of nearby Bed & Breakfasts:
GPS: 36.44862763004054,-94.03369903564453
Map & Directions:
View All Things Cherokee Travel Center in a larger map
Pea Ridge is just north of Rogers, Arkansas. For specific directions, click the "Directions" link in the location bubble of the map above and enter your starting location on the left.
May Featured Title - Gifts & Books
Trail of Tears: The Rise and Fall of the Cherokee Nation
Gives a fascinating portrayal of the Cherokee Nation, filled with legend, lore and religion. After much research the author has created a heart-stirring story of the tragedy of the Cherokee Trail of Tears which puts one into the time and place of that tragic time with a sense of authenticity and accuracy.
Order Trail of Tears: The Rise and Fall of the Cherokee Nation
Cherokee Art Gallery
Family Tree Research
Cherokee Roll Search
May Featured Site - Travel Center
New Echota Historic Site
The city of New Echota was established in 1825 as the capital of the Cherokee Nation and it would remain so until 1838, at which point the Cherokee Nation capital moved to Indian Territory with the Trail of Tears. Yet, despite its short history, this city witnessed many significant events... (More)
Subscribe to the ATC Newsletter
