Fort Fizzle Historic Site and Picnic Area
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To block the Nez Perce from entering Montana, Captain Rawn, 7th Infantry, with thirty enlisted men and four officers from nearby Fort Missoula, entrenched themselves behind log breastworks in a small opening along the Lolo Creek drainage adjacent to the Lolo Trail. About 150 settlers joined the soldiers. The 750 Nez Perce, with their 1000+ horses, were camped about five miles to the west.
At a meeting of the Nez Perce chiefs and Army officers, the Nez Perce made four things very clear: they had no intention of molesting settlers or property; they wanted to travel in peace; they would not surrender their horses, arms, and ammunition; and they were not ready to return to the hostile environment in Idaho.
“I had a talk with Chief’s Joseph, White Bird, and Looking Glass, who proposed if allowed to pass unmolested, to march peaceably through the Bitter Root Valley.” Captain Rawn.
Soon after the meeting, many settler volunteers returned home. Some reports say they were convinced that the Nez Perce wanted a peaceful trip through the valley.
“Others, at the sight of so many Indians…deserted,” said Corporal Loynes, 7th Infantry.
“Now could we see the Indians passing within
Fort Fizzle Historic Site and Picnic Area