Modoc War: First Battle of the Stronghold

Background. The Modoc War arose from conflicts between the Modoc people and the US Army in northeastern California and southeastern Oregon. Following the 1864 treaty, Captain Jack’s band left the Klamath Reservation in 1870 to return to Lost River. After the inconclusive Battle of Lost River in November 1872, the Modoc retreated to the lava beds, establishing a natural fortress known as Captain Jack's Stronghold along the south shore of Tule Lake.

Battle Preparation. On January 17, 1873, approximately 400 Army troops advanced on the Stronghold. The battle orders required howitzers to fire three shots as a signal for Bernard to begin the attack, followed by a 15-minute pause to allow Modoc women and children to evacuate. The forces planned to spread out and meet in the middle of the lava fields, trapping the Modoc against Tule Lake.

Engagement. The western force began taking fire from the Modoc, who had left the Stronghold to attack the Army in the lava beds. In the east, Bernard's force came under fire after advancing to about 500 yards from the Stronghold and charged the enemy. The US soldiers killed were left on the battlefield, providing the Modoc with additional rifles and ammunition.

Aftermath. The defeat of the Army at the First Battle of the Stronghold strengthened the Modoc position. Major General Edward Canby, commanding officer of the Department of the Columbia, came to the lava beds to lead the peace effort. The conflict was estimated to have cost the United States over $400,000, a significant expense given the small number of opposing forces.