Crowheart

An important battle was fought in 1866 between the Eastern Band of Shoshone and Crow Indians. As the years passed, game became scarce throughout the plains, especially along the routes traveled by the white settlers. Several tribes depended on the Wind River Valley for their supply of meat, which made things difficult for the Eastern Band of Shoshone because this was their traditional hunting grounds.With the powerful strength of the Eastern Band of Shoshone and under the leadership of Chief Washakie, other tribes would combine forces before entering the Wind River Country. However, the leader of the crow tribe, Chief Big Robber still considered his tribe equal or more powerful than the Eastern Band of Shoshone.

Upon learning that the crow were camped along the Wind River not far from Crowheart Butte, Washakie sent a Shoshone scout along with his wife to give word that they may hunt in the territory of the Owl Creek Range while his Shoshone people hunted the Wind River Range. As the scout and wife arrived at the crowís camp, they signified that they were approaching on a peaceful mission. The crows replied by killing the Shoshone scout and sending a message back with his wife stating that they were prepared to go into battle and they would hunt wherever they please.

Washakie immediately sent word of what had taken place to Chief Tigee of the Bannocks who were camped along the Popo Agie River, a few miles to the south. Shortly afterwards, Tigee joined forces with Washakie in an attempt to attack the crow camp. Both forces (Shoshone & Bannock and Crow) proved to be evenly matched, that as the battle continued into the fifth day, it was apparent that either side was able to gain an advantage. Many warriors were being lost during the battle and it was finally agreed that Washakie and Big Robber would fight a duel and as far as the loser was concerned, the tribe with the victorious chief would have the right to claim the Wind River Valley.

Both tribes sent their chief away with disguised emotions, cheering them on to victory with shouts of encouragement while realizing that one of them would not return alive. The battle took place at a safe distance, away from both tribes in order to be certain that there would not be any interference. With their own lives on the line and what it holds for their people, both chiefs mounted on their horses. Carrying a lance and a shield made of tough hide taken from an old bull buffalo, Washakie took his position while Big Robber took his. Members of both tribes were silent and tense. Although the excitement was at high stakes, members of each tribe looked on without interference. As the battle raged back and forth, it soon became impossible for Big Robber to overcome the powerful force of Washakie.

In victory, Washakie was impressed with the bravery of Big Robber and instead of taking his scalp; he cut out his heart and placed it on the end of his lance.During the Crowheart Butte Battle, a crow girl was captured and was later to become the wife of Chief Washakie.

Another old building I spotted sitting in the woods...