Near Morton in Renville County, Minnesota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
The Prairie Factor
Photographed By K. Linzmeier, September 25, 2013
1. The Prairie Factor Marker
"I led my men up from the west through the grass and took up a position 200 yards from the camp behind a small knoll."
You are standing where Wamditanka and his band took cover during the battle. The knoll, or small hill, in front of you kept the Dakota force from view.
The landscape played a significant role in the battle. The tall grass obscured long views, and wetlands to the south and north of the campsite were effective hiding places for Dakota men.
Tall grass and a Dark Night
The stars and the full moon were the only light sources aiding U.S. pickets at Birch Coulee. They were expected to stay alert, listening closely and watching for the slightest movements.
The cover of darkness was a crucial element in the Dakota battle strategy. Dakota forces surrounded the campsite and made their attack before dawn.
Birch Coulee Battlefield
Erected by the Minnesota Historical Society.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Wars, US Indian. In addition, it is included in the Minnesota Historical Society series list.
Location.
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. “The Fight Was On” (here, next to this marker); Dakota Positions (within shouting distance of this marker); The Battle of Birch Coulee (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Battle Tactics (about 500 feet away); Battle Scars (about 600 feet away); "A Beautiful Place to Encamp" (approx. 0.2 miles away); Wrong Place, Wrong Time (approx. 0.2 miles away); a different marker also named The Battle of Birch Coulee (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Morton.
More about this marker. sketch caption: Albert Colgrave, First Night Out, 1862
Regarding The Prairie Factor. In 1862, the Minnesota Dakota, also known by the French term, “Sioux," waged war against the United States following two years of unfulfilled treaty obligations. A burial detail of 160 to 170 soldiers and civilians was dispatched from Fort Ridgely
Photographed By K. Linzmeier, September 25, 2013
2. The Prairie Factor Marker
Wamditanka's Knoll
Also see . . .
1. Dakota War of 1862. Wikipedia entry (Submitted on December 26, 2021, by Larry Gertner of New York, New York.)
2. Picket (military). Wikipedia entry. (Submitted on January 31, 2014.)
Additional keywords. U.S.-Dakota War of 1862
Credits. This page was last revised on December 26, 2021. It was originally submitted on January 31, 2014, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. This page has been viewed 463 times since then and 18 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 31, 2014, by Keith L of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.
