Home arrow Nevada arrow Washoe County arrow The Two Battles of Pyramid Lake NV148
The Two Battles of Pyramid Lake NV148 Print E-mail
Marker Image

On May 12, 1860, Northern Paiute warriors, fighting to retain their way of life, decisively defeated a volunteer army from Virginia City and nearby settlements. The battle and consequent white retreat began with a skillful ambush north of Nixon and continued along the plateau on the opposite side of the Truckee River almost to the present site of Wadsworth. On June 2, 1860, a strong force of volunteers and regular U.S. Army troops engaged the Indians in battle along the tableland and mountainside. Several hundred braves, attempting a delaying action to allow their women, children and elders to escape, fought with such courage and strategy that the superior Caucasian forces were held back during the day until the Indians withdrew. Paiute war leader Numaga (Young Winnemucca), described as a "superior man of any race," desired only peace for his people.
Along State Route 447, seven miles south of Nixon, Washoe County Nevada.

Comments (0)add


Write the displayed characters

busy




Click here to get driving directions to this marker

 
< Prev   Next >