Transcribed from volume I of Kansas: a cyclopedia of state history, embracing events, institutions, industries, counties, cities, towns, prominent persons, etc. ... / with a supplementary volume devoted to selected personal history and reminiscence. Standard Pub. Co. Chicago : 1912. 3 v. in 4. : front., ill., ports.; 28 cm. Vols. I-II edited by Frank W. Blackmar.

Black Kettle.—The Indian name of this Cheyenne chief was "Mo-ke-ta-ve-to," and for many years he was one of the powerful factors to be reckoned with in determining the tribal policy, in the negotiation of treaties, etc. His step-daughter became the wife of George Bent, one of the noted family of trappers and fur traders. Black Kettle was engaged in several predatory expeditions against the white settlers on the frontier, and was connected with the Indian uprising in 1868. This proved to be his last raid. With about 40 ragged, dirty and unkempt braves, he came into the post at Fort Hays claiming that his band was composed of "good Indians," but sorely in need of food. After the usual pow wow he was given a supply of provisions, and immediately he and his followers began running off stock, burning dwellings, killing and capturing the settlers in Russell and Lincoln counties. When pursuit and retribution became imminent he moved rapidly westward with his plunder, finally taking refuge in his village on the Washita river. This village was attacked by the United States soldiers commanded by Gen. George A. Custer on Nov. 29, 1868. Like a whirlwind Custer and his troopers rode through the village, firing right and left, and Black Kettle and most of his warriors were killed before they had time to arm themselves for defense.

Pages 189-190 from volume I of Kansas: a cyclopedia of state history, embracing events, institutions, industries, counties, cities, towns, prominent persons, etc. ... / with a supplementary volume devoted to selected personal history and reminiscence. Standard Pub. Co. Chicago : 1912. 3 v. in 4. : front., ill., ports.; 28 cm. Vols. I-II edited by Frank W. Blackmar. Transcribed May 2002 by Carolyn Ward.