Battle of Round Mountain, Indian Territory

Background. Douglas H. Cooper, a former Indian agent and Confederate general, commanded forces in Indian Territory. He sought to compel Opothleyahola, a Unionist Creek chief, to submit or leave. Cooper marched north in November 1861 with approximately 1,400 men. Opothleyahola, believing in Federal protection, led his band, including Seminoles, toward Kansas. The conflict arose from Cooper's inability to reconcile differences with Opothleyahola's loyalist faction.

The Engagement. On November 19, Cooper learned part of Opothleyahola's band was erecting a fort at the Red Fork. Confederate troops followed stragglers and blundered into Opothleyahola's warriors at the tree line near the Round Mountains. The physical location is disputed. Opothleyahola's forces drove the Confederates back to Fort Gibson. This was the first of three encounters between the opposing bands during this campaign.

Aftermath. The following morning, Cooper advanced on Opothleyahola's new camp but found the Federal forces had fled. The battle prevented Union supporters from fleeing to Kansas protection, though Opothleyahola continued his movement. Cooper's brigade later fought at Chusto-Talasah and Chustenahlah. The engagement is noted as the first battle of the Civil War in Indian Territory within the Trail of Blood on Ice campaign.