Camp Sheridan (Hay Springs, Nebraska)

Hay Springs · Nebraska · Indian Wars

Quick BriefCamp Sheridan was established originally as the Post at Spotted Tail Indian Agency in northwestern Nebraska in March 1874. The garrison moved into permanent structures on Beaver Creek in 1875 and was abandoned in May 1881. Named after U.S. Civil War General Philip H. Sheridan, the camp served a brief but significant role during the Indian Wars era, including Crazy Horse's final passage in 1877.

History & Significance

Camp Sheridan was originally established as the Post at Spotted Tail Indian Agency in northwestern Nebraska in March 1874. Initially a tent encampment about one mile from the Spotted Tail Agency, permanent facilities consisting of over 30 frame and brick structures were constructed in spring 1875.

The garrison occupied the west fork of Beaver Creek, 12 miles upstream from the White River, near Hay Springs. The adjacent Spotted Tail Agency was built in 1874 to supply treaty payments, including food, clothing, weapons, and utensils under the 1868 Fort Laramie Treaty.

Under the influence of leader Spotted Tail, Camp Sheridan existed quietly and then closed in 1881, in contrast to the turbulent history of nearby Camp Robinson. Oglala leader Crazy Horse traveled from Camp Sheridan to Fort Robinson on September 5, 1877, and was killed that night while resisting imprisonment; his father returned his body to Camp Sheridan the next day. The post, with a peak garrison of seven companies of soldiers, was abandoned on May 1, 1881.