North Dakota’s history is a fascinating one. As a relatively younger state, a lot of the older history happened while it was still part of the Dakota Territory. From the days of the Native Americans to the European pioneers and later settlers, there are many stories from across the prairie. There were a handful of battles across the state, and one, in particular, has gone down in the record books as one of the bloodiest, most brutal battles ever – and you can visit where it happened.
The Whitestone Hill State Historic Site can be found just outside of Kulm, North Dakota, on the shores of a small lake.
NDTraveler85/Tripadvisor
The infamous hill is dotted with white stones, making the name very fitting. Today it is an empty, grassy field, but in 1863 it was the site of a Sioux tipi camp. It is estimated there were a few thousand people in the camp, most of them women and children.
Whitestone Hill State Historic Site/Facebook
From September 3-5, 1863, the Battle of Whitestone Hill took place. US forces descended upon the village and attacked.
Whitestone Hill State Historic Site/Facebook
The battle was brutal, and today you can see the monument that was erected to honor the fallen Sioux people. Hundreds were killed or taken prisoner, and the rest forced to flee. Additionally, 22 US soldiers were killed and more wounded.
Whitestone Hill State Historic Site/Facebook
Today, the historic site offers a way for visitors to see where this took place and to learn the history. They have built new tipis to stand where the originals did over a century ago. Admission is entirely free, so it’s perfect for an educational, fascinating family outing.
Whitestone Hill State Historic Site/Facebook
There is a picnic shelter and space to enjoy a packed lunch outdoors as you take in the significance of this area. Though it may have been the site of a deadly battle, today it is a site for learning about the people who lived here and the state’s history.
Whitestone Hill State Historic Site/Facebook
Plus, the view of the lake is stunning. It is open May through September, Thursday through Monday.
Whitestone Hill State Historic Site/Facebook
Address: 7310 86th Street SE, Kulm, ND, 58465
NDTraveler85/Tripadvisor
Whitestone Hill State Historic Site/Facebook
To learn more about this historic site, click here. You can also visit its official Facebook page to see upcoming events and interesting tidbits about its past.
Discover more historic sites across North Dakota and learn about the extensive history of the prairie. Most of them are free to visit!
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