Killough massacre in East Texas (1838)

The Killough massacre occurred on October 5, 1838, near Larissa, Texas, resulting in 18 casualties among white settlers. The victims, primarily members of the Killough family who had immigrated from Alabama in 1837, were killed or abducted by Cherokee raiders. This event is remembered as the largest and last Native American attack on white settlers in East Texas.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Tensions rose in East Texas in early 1838 due to Anglo settlers entering Cherokee lands and residual Mexican loyalty among Hispanics. The Republic of Texas Senate nullified a treaty in December 1838, prompting Cherokee leaders to seek attacks on settlers. Prior agreements allowed safe passage for harvesting crops, but a band not party to the agreement attacked the settlement on October 5, 1838.

Victims. The 18 victims included Isaac Killough, Sr., and his extended family, comprising the families of four sons and two daughters. The group had immigrated to the Republic of Texas from Talladega County, Alabama, in 1837. The attack resulted in 18 white settlers being either killed or abducted by Cherokee raiders.

Historical Significance. The Killough massacre is believed to be both the largest and last Native American attack on settlers in East Texas. It occurred near Larissa, Texas, in the northwestern part of Cherokee County. The event is marked by the Killough Monument near Jacksonville, Texas.

People involved

Sources

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