Battle of the Neches
(Site 15 miles southeast) Main engagement of Cherokee War; fought July 15 and 16, 1839, between 800 Indians (Including; Delawares and Shawnees) and 500 troops of the Republic of Texas. An extraordinary fact is that David G. Burnet vice president of the Republic; Albert Sidney Johnston, secretary of war; and two other high officials took active parts in the fighting. When killed, Chief Bowles, aged Cherokee leader, carried a sword given him by Gen. Sam Houston. After the defeat of the tribes, they scattered, thus virtually ending Indian troubles in the settled eastern part of Texas. (1968)
32.5135° N, 95.6852° W
Where to Find It
eastbound rest area, IH-20 east of FM 16, Exit 537
Nearby Markers
- 0.2 mi NW The Free State of Van Zandt Van
- 0.2 mi NW Brady P. Gentry Van
- 1.8 mi NE Pure Oil Company Camp Van
- 2 mi SE Marvin Chapel Cemetery Van
- 2.7 mi E Van United Methodist Church Van
- 2.7 mi E Swindall School Van