The Chase

The Chase. Bird Creek Battle and Indian Hunting Ground Site. The area now known as Temple, Texas, was located near the boundary between settlers and native hunting grounds. American Indians of the Caddo, Comanche, Shawnee, Delaware, Kickapoo, and other nomadic tribes were drawn to the fertile plains among the Blackland prairie. On his return, Captain Bird came upon 3 Indians skinning a buffalo, and the Indians escaped to the north. Bird returned to the fort and gathered 34 Rangers, leaving two men behind. The Rangers gave chase and came upon a band of about 27 Indians hunting near the bend of the Leon River in present-day Belton. Startled, the natives rode off, and the Rangers galloped after them. After a few miles, they charged but lost them among the thickets. After about three miles, the Rangers were confronted with the main body of Indians arrayed in battle order. The parties skirmished, with the combatants of both sides getting within 175 yards of each other in a running battle, and the groups continued even further north into "Comanche Country.", Written by Dan Elder. Drawings and Design by Susan Sterie , Photographs by Jason Deckman. Photos taken of the collections of The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum