5/2/09 -- Because we got into our campsite so early in the afternoon and because the weather was warm and sunny, we ended up visiting this place on Friday, May 1st instead. Then we returned for just a little while on Saturday, May 2nd so the kids could show Randy the Indian Memorial, which he had missed when he made a quick stop the day before.
For more information: http://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm
I found the scattered white stones to be very evocative. Each one is placed where a soldier was found dead. It gives some idea of the movements of the group---and gives a much clearer idea of how desperate they must have been by the end. The tombstone for the horse cemetery gave a similar feel---how hard it must have been to have killed their own horses as a last ditch effort at survival for themselves.
The Indian Memorial was beautiful. The ideas behind it, spelled out in signs near the site, were really touching---looking for reconciliation, healing and peace between peoples. The memorial plus the film insi
de the visitors center made the valid point that the indians were fighting to protect their families, their homes, and their way of life. The 7th Cavalry were doing their jobs...but they were indeed the invaders. We had interesting family discussions about war, and fighting, and rights, and differing cultural views...If you are in the area...DEFINITELY take time to stop here!
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