U.S. Department of the Interior 

National Park Service 

American Battlefield Protection Program 

Update to the Civil War Sites Advisory Commission 

 Report on the Nation’s Civil War Battlefields

 State of Oklahoma

 Washington, DC 

 May 2010 
Update to the Civil War Sites Advisory Commission 

Report on the Nation’s Civil War Battlefields 

State of Oklahoma 

U.S. Department of the Interior 

National Park Service 

American Battlefield Protection Program 

Washington, DC 

May 2010 

Authority 

The American Battlefield Protection Program Act of 1996, as amended by the Civil War 

Battlefield Preservation Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-359, 111 Stat. 3016, 17 December 

2002), directs the Secretary of the Interior to update the Civil War Sites Advisory 

Commission (CWSAC) Report on the Nation’s Civil War Battlefields. 

Acknowledgments 

NPS Project Team Paul Hawke, Project Leader; Kathleen Madigan, Survey Coordinator; 

Tanya Gossett and January Ruck, Reporting; Matthew Borders, Historian; Kristie Kendall, 

Program Assistant 

Battlefield Surveyor(s) Joseph E. Brent, Mudpuppy & Waterdog, Inc. 

Respondents Gwen Walker, Atoka Confederate Museum; Leonard Logan and Herman 

Stinnett, Friends of Cabin Creek Battlefield, Inc.; Ralph Jones, Honey Springs Battlefield; 

Jennifer Scott, landowner; and Whit Edwards and Lynda Schwan, Oklahoma Historical 

Society 

Cover: At Honey Springs Battlefield, the Oklahoma Historical Society has installed 55 

wayside exhibits to provide interpretation for visitors. The more than 1,000-acre site is 

the largest holding of protected battlefield land in Oklahoma. Photograph by Joseph 

Brent, 2008. 
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Final DRAFT – State of Oklahoma 

Table of Contents 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ......................................................................................... 1

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 3

SYNOPSIS ............................................................................................................ 5

METHOD STATEMENT ......................................................................................... 7

RESEARCH AND FIELD SURVEYS .......................................................................................... 7 

QUESTIONNAIRES........................................................................................................... 11 

SUMMARY OF CONDITIONS OF OKLAHOMA’S CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELDS ..... 13

QUANTIFIED LAND AREAS ............................................................................................... 13 

CONDITION ASSESSMENTS ............................................................................................... 13 

REGISTRATION............................................................................................................... 14 

STEWARDSHIP ............................................................................................................... 16 

PUBLIC ACCESS AND INTERPRETATION ............................................................................... 16 

LOCAL ADVOCACY ........................................................................................................ 18 

INDIVIDUAL BATTLEFIELD PROFILES ................................................................ 20

APPENDICES ...................................................................................................... 40

APPENDIX A. CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD PRESERVATION ACT OF 2002 .................................... 40 

APPENDIX B. BATTLEFIELD QUESTIONNAIRE ...................................................................... 43 

APPENDIX C. CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD LAND ACQUISITION GRANTS...................................... 46 

APPENDIX D. AMERICAN BATTLEFIELD PROTECTION PROGRAM PLANNING GRANTS ................ 47 
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Introduction 

The information in this report fulfills, in part, the purposes of the Civil War Battlefield 

Preservation Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-359, 111 Stat. 3016). Those purposes are: 

1) to act quickly and proactively to preserve and protect nationally significant 

Civil War battlefields through conservation easements and fee-simple 

purchases of those battlefields from willing sellers; and 

2) to create partnerships among state and local governments, regional entities, 

and the private sector to preserve, conserve, and enhance nationally 

significant Civil War battlefields. 

The Civil War Battlefield Preservation Act of 2002 directs the Secretary of the Interior, 

acting through the American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP) of the National Park 

Service, to update the Civil War Sites Advisory Commission (CWSAC) Report on the Nation’s 

Civil War Battlefields. The CWSAC was established by Congress in 1991 and published its 

report in 1993. Congress provided funding for this update in FY2005 and FY2007. 

Congress asked that the updated report reflect the following: 

• Preservation activities carried out at the 384 battlefields identified by the 

CWSAC during the period between 1993 and the update; 

• Changes in the condition of the battlefields during that period; and 

• Any other relevant developments relating to the battlefields during that period. 

In accordance with the legislation, this report presents information about Civil War 

battlefields in Oklahoma for use by Congress, federal, state, and local government 

agencies, landowners, and other interest groups. Other state reports will be issued as 

surveys and analyses are completed. 
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Figure 1. CWSAC Battlefields in Oklahoma, state view 

Figure 2. Detail – CWSAC Battlefields in eastern Oklahoma 
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Synopsis 

There are seven CWSAC battlefields in the State of Oklahoma. Historically, these 

battlefields encompassed almost 29,700 acres.1

 Today, nearly 29,000 acres of these 

landscapes retain sufficient significance and integrity to make them worthy of 

preservation.2

 At present, fewer than 1,400 acres, or less than 5 percent, of these 

battlefield lands are permanently protected. 

In 1993, the CWSAC ranked Honey Springs as among the nation’s top priorities for 

preservation. Today, there are more than 1,000 acres of protected land at the battlefield. 

The Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) manages this protected area as a publically 

accessible historical site and, with support from the Friends of Honey Springs, offers six 

walking trails and 55 interpretive signs for the use and education of visitors. 

In addition to its efforts at Honey Springs, the OHS has collaborated with another 

nonprofit group – the Friends of Cabin Creek, Inc., to preserve a portion of the Cabin 

Creek battlefield. Hard-working volunteers have helped the State of Oklahoma maintain 

10 acres of protected land at Cabin Creek. The site, which was originally donated to the 

OHS in 1961 by the Vinita Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC), 

includes a series of monuments placed by the UDC and OHS, as well as an interpretive 

kiosk funded by the Friends of Cabin Creek, Inc. 

At Chustenahlah, which was identified by the CWSAC in 1993 as a battlefield where 

comprehensive preservation was possible, there is no protected land. Chustenahlah

retains much of its historic integrity and is still a candidate for comprehensive preservation, 

however residential development from the town of Skiatook could expand along 

Oklahoma Route 20 and threaten the battlefield’s integrity. 

The landscape of Old Fort Wayne, characterized in 1993 as a battlefield where additional 

protection was needed, has suffered some alteration to terrain features and viewsheds 

during the past two decades. Residential development and industrial poultry farming is 

scattered throughout the battlefield area. Although portions of this landscape have lost 

integrity, most essential features remain intact. There is no protected land at Old Fort 

Wayne, but there is still significant potential for preservation. 

Of Oklahoma’s seven Civil War battlefields, Chusto-Talasah has the most altered 

landscape. In 1993, the CWSAC determined that this battlefield was fragmented. Mining 

and residential development sprawling from the cities of Tulsa and Sperry have 

significantly reduced the amount of intact historic terrain in and around the combat area, 

but the ABPP has found other portions of the battlefield that do retain enough integrity 

to justify preservation. No land has been protected at Chusto-Talasah, but the 

opportunity for preservation does exist. 

As was the case in 1993, the battlefields of Middle Boggy Depot and Round Mountain

could not be assessed. To establish precise and accurate Study Area and Core Areas for 

these battlefields, additional research, archeological investigation, and tribal consultation 

 

1

Using a GIS program and accounting for overlapping areas, ABPP calculated that the Study Areas for the seven battlefields in 

Oklahoma represent 29,696.36 acres. The Study Areas for the battle of Old Fort Wayne includes an additional 13.95 acres of land and 

water in the State of Arkansas. 

2

 Using a GIS program, and accounting for overlapping areas, ABPP calculated that the Potential National Register Boundaries for

the battlefields of Oklahoma represent 28,843.52 acres. 
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is required. Without this work, Middle Boggy Depot and Round Mountain remain 

undefined and at risk. 

Based on the successes at Honey Springs and Cabin Creek, the cultivation of nonprofit 

groups with missions driven exclusively by battlefield preservation interests could be 

beneficial for Oklahoma’s other battlefields. Future efforts to develop similar 

organizations could help provide consistent, long-term support in the absence of, or in 

support of, state action. In addition, many other states use preservation easements to 

protect battlefield land when fee simple purchase is not a viable option. The ABPP found 

no battlefield land protected by easement in Oklahoma. Exploration of this powerful 

preservation tool may be appropriate. 

Table 1 indicates how the CWSAC prioritized Oklahoma’s Civil War battlefields in 1993. 

The National Park Service will issue updated priorities after all of the CWSAC battlefields 

nationwide have been surveyed and all state reports have been completed. 

Table 1: CWSAC Preservation Priorities from 1993 

 

CWSAC Priority Battlefield County/City 

I Critical Need Honey Springs (OK007) Muskogee and 

McIntosh counties 

II Comprehensive Preservation 

Possible

Chustenahlah (OK003) Osage County

III Additional Protection 

Needed

Cabin Creek (OK006) 

Old Fort Wayne (OK004)

Mayes County 

Delaware County; 

Benton County, AK

IV Fragmented/Destroyed Chusto-Talasah (OK002) Tulsa County

N/D Not Determined Middle Boggy Depot (OK005) 

Round Mountain (OK001)

Not determined 

Not determined 

Figure 3. Located in the valley surrounding Battle Creek, Chustenalah retains much of its historic 

integrity. Photo by Joseph Brent, 2008 
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Method Statement

Congress instructed the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the American Battlefield 

Protection Program (ABPP), to report on changes in the condition of the battlefields since 

1993 and on “preservation activities” and “other relevant developments” carried out at 

each battlefield since 1993. To fulfill those assignments, the ABPP 1) conducted site 

surveys of each battlefield and 2) prepared and sent out questionnaires to battlefield 

managers and advocacy organizations (see Appendix B). 

Research and Field Surveys 

The ABPP conducted the field assessments of Oklahoma battlefields in November 2005. 

The surveys entailed additional historical research, on-the-ground documentation and 

assessment of site conditions, identification of impending threats to each site, and site 

mapping. Surveyors used a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver to map historic 

features of each battlefield and used a Geographic Information System (GIS) program to 

draw site boundaries. The ABPP retains all final survey materials. Each battlefield survey 

file includes a survey form (field notes, list of defining features, list of documentary 

sources, and a photo log), photographs, spatial coordinates of significant features, and 

boundaries described on USGS topographic maps. The surveys did not include 

archeological investigations for reasons of time and expense. 

Study Areas and Core Areas 

The CWSAC established a Study Area and a Core Area for five principal battlefields in 1993 

(see Figure 4 for definitions) – Cabin Creek, Chustenshlah, Chusto-Talasah, Honey 

Springs, and Old Fort Wayne. The CWSAC boundaries have proven invaluable as guides 

to local land and resource preservation efforts at Civil War battlefields. However, since 

1993, the National Park Service has refined its battlefield survey methodology, which 

include research, working with site stewards, identifying and documenting lines of 

approach and withdrawal used by opposing forces, and applying the concepts of military 

terrain analysis to all battlefield landscapes. The ABPP’s Battlefield Survey Manual explains 

the field methods employed during this study.3

 The surveys also incorporate the concepts 

recommended in the National Register of Historic Places’ Guidelines for Identifying, 

Evaluating, and Registering America’s Historic Battlefields, which was published in 1992 

after the CWSAC completed its original assessments of the battlefields.4

Using its refined methodology, the ABPP was able to validate or adjust the CWSAC’s Study 

Area and Core Area boundaries to reflect more accurately the full nature and original 

resources of these battlefields (see Table 2). However, it is important to note that the 

Study Area and Core Area boundaries are based on the review of historic source material, 

drawn to indicate where the battle took place, and convey only the location of the 

battlefield; neither takes the current condition nor alterations to the historic landscape 

into consideration. For this reason, they should not be used to define surviving portions of 

a battlefield that merit protection and preservation without further evaluation. 

Although the CWSAC listed Middle Boggy Depot and Round Mountain in its 1993 

report as among the most significant battles of the Civil War, it could not establish precise 

and accurate locations for these battlefields and did not draw Study and Core Areas for 

either battle. Since 1993 little scholarly work has been completed for these sites. 

Therefore, the ABPP determined that additional research, archeological investigation, and 

tribal consultation is still required in order to establish precise and accurate Study and Core 

 

3

 American Battlefield Protection Program, “Battlefield Survey Manual,” (Washington, DC: National Park Service, revised 2007). 4

 National Register Bulletin 40, Guidelines for Identifying, Evaluating, and Registering America’s Historic Battlefields, 1992 , Revised 

1999 (Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Interagency Resources Division).
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Figure 4: Boundary Definitions 

The Study Area represents the historic extent 

of the battle as it unfolded across the 

landscape. The Study Area contains resources 

known to relate to or contribute to the battle 

event: where troops maneuvered and 

deployed, immediately before and after 

combat, and where they fought during 

combat. Historic accounts, terrain analysis, 

and feature identification inform the 

delineation of the Study Area boundary. 

Historic setting, approaches, and natural 

features that figure importantly in the battle 

are defining elements. The Study Area 

indicates the extent to which historic and 

archeological resources associated with the 

battle (areas of combat, command, 

communications, logistics, medical services, 

etc.) may be found and protected. Surveyors 

delineated Study Area boundaries for every 

battle site that was positively identified 

through research and field survey, regardless 

of its present integrity. 

The Core Area represents the areas of direct 

engagement on the battlefield. Positions 

that delivered or received fire, and the space 

connecting them, fall within the Core Area. 

Frequently described as “hallowed ground,” 

land within the Core Area is often the first to 

be targeted for protection. There may be 

more than one Core Area on a battlefield, but 

all lie within the Study Area. 

Unlike the Study and Core Area, which are 

based only upon the interpretation of historic 

events, the Potential National Register 

(PotNR) boundary represents ABPP’s 

assessment of a Study Area’s current integrity 

(the surviving landscape and features that 

convey the site’s historic sense of place). The 

PotNR boundary may include all or some of 

the Study Area, and all or some of the Core 

Area. Although preparing a National Register 

nomination may require further assessment of 

historic integrity and more documentation 

than that provided by the ABPP survey, PotNR 

boundaries identify land that merits this 

additional effort. 

Areas for these battlefields. In the absence 

of clear data the ABPP could not apply its 

survey method to create new Study and 

Core Areas for Middle Boggy Depot and 

Round Mountain 

Potential National Register Boundaries 

To address the question of what part of 

the battlefield remains reasonably intact 

and warrants preservation, this study 

introduced a third boundary line that was 

not attempted by the CWSAC: the 

Potential National Register boundary (see 

Figure 4).

Looking at each Study Area, the surveyors 

assigned PotNR boundaries where they 

judged that the landscape retained enough 

integrity to convey the significance of the 

historic battle. In a few cases, the PotNR 

boundary encompasses the entire Study 

Area. In most cases, however, the PotNR 

boundary includes less land than identified 

in the full Study Area. 

In assigning PotNR boundaries, the ABPP 

followed National Register of Historic 

Places (NRHP) guidelines when identifying 

and mapping areas that retain integrity 

and cohesion within the Study Areas.5

 

However, because the ABPP focuses only 

on areas of battle, the Program did not 

evaluate lands adjacent to the Study Area 

that may contribute to a broader historical 

and chronological definition of “cultural 

landscape.” Lands outside of the Study 

Area associated with other historic events 

and cultural practices may need to be 

evaluated in preparation for a formal 

nomination of the cultural landscape. 

Most importantly, the PotNR boundary 

does not constitute a formal 

determination of eligibility by the 

Keeper of the National Register of 

Historic Places.

6

 The PotNR boundary is 

designed to be used as a planning tool for 

 

5

 For general guidance about integrity issues and National Register of Historic Places properties, see National Park Service, How to 

Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation (Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior, revised 1997). The survey 

evaluations described above do not meet the more stringent integrity standards for National Historic Landmark designation. See

National Park Service, How to Prepare National Historic Landmark Nominations (Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior, 

1999), 36-37. 

6

 See 36 CFR 60.1- 14 for regulations about nominating a property to the National Register of Historic Places and 36 CFR 63 for 

regulations concerning Determinations of Eligibility for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.
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Final DRAFT – State of Oklahoma 9

government agencies and the public. Like the Study and Core Area boundaries, the PotNR 

boundary places no restriction on private property use. 

The term integrity, as defined by the NRHP, is “the ability of a property to convey its 

significance.”7

 While assessments of integrity are traditionally based on seven specific 

attributes – location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association – 

battlefields are unique cultural resources and require special evaluation.“ Generally, the 

most important aspects of integrity for battlefields are location, setting, feeling and 

association,” and the most basic test for determining the integrity of any battlefield is to 

assess “whether a participant in the battle would recognize the property as it exists 

today.”8

 

Other conditions contribute to the degree of integrity a battlefield retains: 

• the quantity and quality of surviving battle-period resources (e.g., 

buildings, roads, fence lines, military structures, and archeological 

features); 

• the quantity and quality of the spatial relationships between and among 

those historic resources and the landscape that connects them; 

• the extent to which current battlefield land use is similar to battle-period 

land use; and 

• the extent to which a battlefield’s physical features and overall character 

visually communicate an authentic sense of the sweep and setting of the 

battle. 

The degree to which post-war development has altered and fragmented the historic 

landscape or destroyed historic features and viewsheds is critical when assessing integrity. 

Changes in traditional land use over time do not generally diminish a battlefield’s 

integrity. For example, landscapes that were farmland during the Civil War do not need to 

be in agricultural use today to be considered eligible for listing in the NRHP so long as the 

land retains its historic rural character. Similarly, natural changes in vegetation – woods 

growing out of historic farm fields, for example – do not necessarily lessen the landscape’s 

integrity. 

Some post-battle development is expected; slight or moderate change within the 

battlefield may not substantially diminish a battlefield’s integrity. A limited degree of 

residential, commercial, or industrial development is acceptable. These post-battle “noncontributing” elements are often included in the PotNR boundary in accordance with 

NRHP guidelines.9

 

7

 National Park Service, National Register Bulletin 40, Guidelines for Identifying, Evaluating, and Registering America’s Historic 

Battlefields, 1992, Revised 1999 (Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Interagency Resources 

Division), http://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/pdfs/NRB40.pdf. Archeological integrity was not examined during this 

study, but should be considered in future battlefield studies and formal nominations to the National Register. 8 National Park Service, National Register Bulletin 40, Guidelines for Identifying, Evaluating, and Registering America’s Historic 

Battlefields, 1992, Revised 1999 (Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Interagency Resources 

Division). 

9

 The ABPP looks only at the battle-related elements of a cultural landscape. Post-battle elements, while not contributing to the 

significance of the battlefield, may be eligible for separate listing in the National Register of Historic Places on their own merits.
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Significant changes in land use since the Civil War do diminish the integrity of the 

battlefield landscape. Heavy residential, commercial, and industrial development; cellular 

tower and wind turbine installation; and large highway construction are common 

examples of such changes. Battlefield landscapes with these types of changes are 

generally considered as having little or no integrity. 

The PotNR boundaries therefore indicate which battlefields are likely eligible for future 

listing in the NRHP and likely deserving of future preservation efforts. If a surveyor 

determined that a battlefield was entirely compromised by land use incompatible with the 

preservation of historic features (i.e., it has little or no integrity), the ABPP did not assign a 

PotNR boundary.10 

In cases where a battlefield is already listed in the NRHP, surveyors reassessed the existing 

documentation based on current scholarship and resource integrity, and, when 

appropriate, provided new information and proposed new boundaries as part of the 

surveys. As a result, some PotNR boundaries will contain or share a boundary with lands 

already listed in the NRHP. In other cases, PotNR boundaries will exclude listed lands that 

have lost integrity (see Table 4.)11

The data from which all three boundaries are drawn do not necessarily reflect the full 

research needed for a formal NRHP nomination. PotNR boundaries are based on an 

assessment of aboveground historic features associated with the cultural and natural 

landscape. The surveys did not include a professional archeological inventory or 

assessment of subsurface features or indications. In some cases, future archeological 

testing will help determine whether subsurface features remain, whether subsurface battle 

features convey important information about a battle or historic property, and whether 

that information may help to confirm, refine, or refute the boundaries previously 

determined by historic studies and terrain analysis. 

The ABPP survey information should be reassessed during future compliance processes 

such as the Section 106 process required by the National Historic Preservation Act 12 and 

Environmental Impact Statements/Environmental Assessments required by the National 

Environmental Policy Act.13 Likewise, more detailed research and assessments should take 

place when any battlefield is formally nominated to the NRHP or proposed for designation 

as a National Historic Landmark (NHL). New research and intensive-level surveys of these 

sites will enlighten future preservation and compliance work. Agencies should continue to 

consult local and state experts for up-to-date information about these battlefields. 

While portions of the Cabin Creek and Honey Springs battlefields have been listed in 

the NRHP (see Table 4), the ABPP has identified PotNR boundaries within the Study Areas 

of these battlefields that could guide efforts to expand existing NRHP boundaries. Based 

on the ABPP’s evaluation, more than 97 percent of Honey Springs retains enough 

 

10 National Park Service, National Register Bulletin 40, Guidelines for Identifying, Evaluating, and Registering America’s Historic 

Battlefields, 1992 , Revised 1999 (http://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/pdfs/NRB40.pdf), offers recommendations 

regarding "Selecting Defensible Boundaries." While this document indicates that "generally, boundaries should not be drawn to 

include the portion of the route taken to the battlefield where there were no encounters," the Guidelines also state that "a basic 

principle is to include within the boundary all of the locations where opposing forces, either before, during or after the battle, took 

actions based on their assumption of being in the presence of the enemy." The ABPP interprets this latter guidance to mean all

military activities that influenced the battle. See the individual battlefield profiles for information about military actions taken along 

the routes included. In accordance with the methodology of this study, if routes included in the Study Area retain integrity, they are 

included within the Potential National Register boundary for the battlefield landscape. 11 The ABPP’s surveys and PotNR assessments do not constitute formal action on behalf of the office of the National Register of 

Historic Places. PotNR assessments are intended for planning purposes only; they do not carry the authority to add, change, or

remove an official listing. 

12 16 USC 470f. 

13 42 USC 4331-4332.
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Final DRAFT – State of Oklahoma 11

integrity to be included within a PotNR boundary. Moreover, all of the land within the 

Study Area boundaries of Cabin Creek retains enough integrity to be included within a 

PotNR boundary. 

In 1972, efforts to commemorate the battle of Middle Boggy Depot included the listing 

of a one-acre cemetery in Atoka County as the “Middle Boggy Battlefield Site and 

Confederate Cemetery.” The nomination noted, “No attempt has been made, nor is one 

contemplated, to preserve the entire battle site itself, even if its precise bounds could be 

determined.”14 In 1993, CWSAC surveyors determined additional research, archeological 

investigation, and tribal consultation would be required to identify the full extent of the 

battlefield’s historic boundaries, and did not establish a Study Area for Middle Boggy 

Depot. Because sufficient research, archeological investigation, and tribal consultation 

has not been undertaken since 1993, the ABPP remains unable to map the battlefield 

accurately. Thus, a PotNR boundary cannot be determined. 

At Chustenahlah, Chusto-Talasah, Old Fort Wayne, and Round Mountain, no known 

efforts have been made to place these battlefields in the NRHP. However, the ABPP 

estimates approximately 89 percent of the land within the Study Area of Chusto-Talasah

and all of the land within the Study Areas of Chustenahlah and Old Fort Wayne retain 

enough integrity to be included within a PotNR boundary. The Study Area for Round 

Mountain cannot be determined. Like Middle Boggy Depot, the lack of research, 

archeological investigation, and tribal consultation prevents the ABPP from recommending 

a PotNR boundary at this time. 

In total, the ABPP estimates that approximately 97 percent of all established battlefield 

Study Areas in the State of Oklahoma have enough integrity to merit listing in the NRHP.15

Questionnaires 

While the ABPP maintains data about its own program activities at Civil War battlefields, 

most preservation work occurs at the local level. Therefore, to carry out the Congressional 

directive for information about activities at the battlefields, the ABPP sought input from 

local battlefield managers and advocacy organizations. The ABPP distributed 

questionnaires designed to gather information about the types of preservation activities 

that have taken place at the battlefields since 1993. The Questionnaire is reproduced in 

Appendix B. 

In Oklahoma, representatives from three organizations and one private property owner 

completed and returned the questionnaires. Their responses, combined with the survey 

findings, allowed the ABPP to create a profile of conditions and activities at Oklahoma’s 

Civil War battlefields. 

 

14 Ruth, Kent. National Register of Historic Places Inventory Nomination Form for Middle Boggy Battlefield Site and Confederate 

Cemetery, Section 7 Description (NR#72001051), Retrieved March 18, 2010, from the National Register of Historic Places in 

Oklahoma website: http://www.ocgi.okstate.edu/shpo/nhrpdfs/72001051.pdf. 15 The ABPP’s estimate of approximately 97 percent is an average of the PotNR percentages for Honey Springs (97 percent), Cabin 

Creek (100 percent), Chusto-Talasah (89 percent), Chustenahlah (100 percent), and Old Fort Wayne (100 percent). 
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Figure 5. High water at Cabin Creek delayed the crossing of a Union supply train traveling from 

Fort Scott, Kansas, to Fort Gibson, Oklahoma. When the water receded, Union troops engaged and 

defeated the Confederate forces gathered on the opposite bank. Today, the creek is one of the 

defining features at the battlefield that retain integrity. Photograph by Joseph Brent, 2008.
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Final DRAFT – State of Oklahoma 13

Summary of Conditions of Oklahoma’s Civil War Battlefields 

Quantified Land Areas 

Using a Geographic Information Systems program, the ABPP calculated the amount of land 

historically associated with the battle (Study Area), the amount of land where forces were 

engaged (Core Area), and the amount of land that may retain enough integrity to be 

eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and that remains to be 

protected (Potential National Register [PotNR] boundary). 

As noted above and as Table 2 illustrates, the Study Areas and Core Areas of Oklahoma’s 

Civil War battlefields have been established in accordance with ABPP research and field 

survey methodology. Particular attention was paid to identifying the routes of approach 

and withdrawal associated with each battle, and to identifying areas of secondary action 

that influenced the course or outcome of the battles.16 The Study Area and Core Area 

boundaries established for each battlefield take these movements and actions into 

account, recognizing the extent to which theses ancillary areas serve as battlefield 

features. Please see the individual battlefield profiles for more information about the 

extent of and reasons for the established boundaries.

Table 2. Battlefield Area Statistics 

Battlefield Study Area Core Area PotNR Boundary

Cabin Creek (OK006) 2,161.03 575.17 2,161.03

Chustenalah (OK003) 11,938.81 1,722.74 11,938.81

Chusto-Talasah (OK002) 6,587.66 1,081.04 5,880.07

Honey Springs (OK007) 6,470.15 1,138.96 6,324.96

Middle Boggy Depot 

(OK005) 

Not determined Not determined Not determined

Old Fort Wayne (OK004) 2,524.75 563.54 2,524.75

Round Mountain 

(OK001) 

Not determined Not determined Not determined

Boundary figures reflect only those areas in Oklahoma. See the Individual Battlefield Profiles for information about the 

size of battlefield lands as they extend into Arkansas. 

Condition Assessments 

Using field survey data, the ABPP assessed the overall condition of each battlefield’s Study 

Area. While no battlefield remains completely unaltered since the Civil War, Cabin Creek 

and Honey Springs have suffered little alteration to the character defining features of 

their landscapes. Some damage from residential construction and associated infrastructure 

development has occurred at both battlefields, hewever the Study Areas retain their 

 

16 National Register Bulletin 40, Guidelines for Identifying, Evaluating, and Registering America's Historic Battlefields 

(http://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/pdfs/NRB40.pdf), offers recommendations regarding "Selecting Defensible 

Boundaries." While this document indicates that "generally, boundaries should not be drawn to include the portion of the route

taken to the battlefield where there were no encounters," the Guidelines also state that "a basic principle is to include within the 

boundary all of the locations where opposing forces, either before, during or after the battle, took actions based on their assumption 

of being in the presence of the enemy." The ABPP interprets this latter guidance to mean all military activities that influenced the 

battle. See the individual battlefield profiles for information about military actions taken along the routes included. In accordance 

with the methodology of this study, if routes included in the Study Area retain integrity, they are included within the Potential 

National Register boundary for the battlefield landscape. 
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Final DRAFT – State of Oklahoma 14

historic rural character with the majority of historically significant viewsheds and terrain 

features – creeks, flood plains, and rolling hills – remaining intact. 

 

Chustenalah and Old Fort Wayne have experienced moderate change to their terrain 

and aboveground battle features during the past 150 years.17 Larger portions of these 

battlefields have been altered by modern residential and commercial construction than at 

Cabin Creek or Honey Springs. At Chustenalah some residential development along 

Oklahoma Route 20 has impacted the landscape and could continue to affect the 

battlefield. At Old Fort Wayne industrial-scale poultry farms are scattered throughout 

the Study Area and some residential housing has been constructed. At both battlefields 

however, most of the essential features of the terrain remain intact. 

Damage to the battlefield landscape of Chusto-Talasah has been more extensive. Land 

within the horseshoe bend of Bird Creek has been mined for sand. This excavation 

reduced the terrain’s elevation by more than 20 feet, destroying a portion of the 

battlefield’s Core Area. With the City of Tulsa located to the southwest and the Town of 

Sperry in the northwest, residential housing development has also damaged portions of 

the battlefield immediately surrounding the Core Area. While larger portions of the 

landscape at Chusto-Talasah have been altered than at the other surveyed battlefields in 

Oklahoma, some essential terrain features do remain and present an opportunity for 

preservation. 

Table 3: Condition Summary 

Condition Battlefield 

Land use is little changed (2) Cabin Creek, Honey Springs

Portions of landscape have been altered, but 

most essential features remain (2)

Chustenalah, Old Fort Wayne

Much of the landscape has been altered and 

fragmented, leaving some essential features (1)

Chusto-Talasah 

Landscape and terrain have been altered beyond 

recognition (0)

None

Battlefields that were not assessed (2) Middle Boggy Depot, 

Round Mountain 

Registration 

The nation’s official method for recognizing historic properties worthy of preservation is 

listing in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Registered battlefields meet 

national standards for documentation, physical integrity, and demonstrable significance to 

the history of our nation. Federal, state, and local agencies use information from the 

NRHP as a planning tool to identify and make decisions about cultural resources. Federal 

and state laws, most notably Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, 

require agencies to account for the effects their projects (roads, wetland permits, 

quarrying, cell towers, etc.) may have on listed and eligible historic properties, such as 

 

17 The condition of archeological resources within the battlefields was not assessed. Future studies are needed to determine the 

degree of archeological integrity associated with subsurface battle deposits.
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battlefields. Listing allows project designers to quickly identify the battlefield and avoid or 

minimize impacts to the landscape. 

Properties listed in the NRHP are also eligible for numerous federal and state historic 

preservation grant programs. Recognition as a registered battlefield may also advance 

public understanding of and appreciation for the battlefield, and may encourage advocacy 

for its preservation.18 

Table 4 compares the number of acres already designated or listed (registered) with the 

number of acres that are likely to meet the same criteria, but are not currently part of the 

existing NRHP boundary. As indicated, a portion of the Cabin Creek battlefield Study 

Area has already been listed in the NRHP. This piece of the battlefield was registered in 

1971, prior to the CWSAC’s study in the early 1990s and includes less than 5 percent of the 

total battlefield area. ABPP’s surveys indicate that additional lands of more than 2,000 

acres may be eligible for NRHP listing. Likewise, less than 20 percent of the Honey 

Springs battlefield was listed in the NRHP in 1970. ABPP’s surveys indicate another 5,000 

acres may be eligible for listing there.19 

No land associated with the battlefields of Chustenalah, Chusto-Talasah, and Old Fort 

Wayne has been listed in the NRHP, but the ABPP has found more than 20,000 acres of 

land in Oklahoma eligible for listing based on association with the these battles.20

Table 4. Acres Registered Compared with Acres Potentially 

Eligible to be Registered

 Battlefield Designation

ABPP PotNR 

Acres 

Existing 

Registered 

Acres *

Acres 

Potentially 

Eligible to be 

Registerted

Cabin Creek (OK006)** NRHP 2,161.03 96.07 2,064.96 

Chustenalah (OK003) 11,938.81 0.00 11,938.81 

Chusto-Talasah (OK002) 5,880.07 0.00 5,880.07 

Honey Springs (OK007) NRHP 6,324.96 1,272.00 5,052.96 

Middle Boggy Depot (OK005) NRHP Not determined 1.00 Not determined 

Old Fort Wayne (OK004) 2,524.75 0.00 2,524.75 

Round Mountain (OK001) Not determined 0.00 Not determined 

Totals 28,829.62 1,369.07 27,461.55

* Note that some NRHP lands may have lost integrity since the date they were listed. 

**The Registered Acres statistic for Cabin Creek is a GIS calculation based on digitization of latitude and longitude coordinates 

recorded in the NRHP Inventory Nomination Form for Cabin Creek Battlefield (NR#717400012). Registered Acres statistic does not

match the acreage recorded in the NRHP nomination.

 

18 There are three levels of federal recognition for historic properties. Congressional designations, such as national park units, 

National Historic Landmarks, and listings in the National Register of Historic Places. Congress creates national park units. The 

Secretary of the Interior designates National Historic Landmarks (NHL) – nationally significant historic sites – for their exceptional 

value or quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of the United States. The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) is 

the nation’s official list of cultural sites significant at the national, state, or local level and worthy of preservation. Historic units of 

the National Park System and NHLs are also treated as listed in the National Register. 19 A one-acre site commemorating the battle of Middle Boggy Depot is listed in the NRHP. Given that additional research and 

archeological investigation are required to establish a Study Area for that battlefield, the ABPP did not assign a PotNR boundary for 

Middle Boggy Depot. 20 Because additional research and archeological investigation are required to definitively locate the Round Mountain battlefield, 

the ABPP could not assess its potential eligibility for inclusion in the NRHP. 
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Stewardship 

Although large portions of Oklahoma’s Civil War battlefields remain intact, only moderate 

efforts have been made to formally protect these historic places. The Oklahoma Historical 

Society has protected more than 1,050 acres of Oklahoma’s Civil War battlefield landscapes 

through fee simple purchase, including 10 acres at Cabin Creek and more than 1,041 acres 

at Honey Springs. There are no protected lands at Chustenalah, Chusto-Talasah, or 

Old Fort Wayne.

21

The majority of remaining intact battlefield terrain in the state – more than 27,400 acres – 

is still held in private, unprotected ownership. While landscape preservation efforts in 

some states have benefited greatly from the purchase of development rights in the form 

of easements, this tool has not been utilized for the protection of battlefields in 

Oklahoma. Preservation easements – a powerful tool, which provides protection without 

burdening the holder with the obligations associated with fee simple ownership – could 

serve as an effective means of encouraging private property owners to act as stewards of 

Oklahoma’s battlefields. 

Table 5. Protective Stewardship of Intact Battlefield Land* 

  

Battlefield ABPP PotNR Acres Permanently 

Protected Acres

Unprotected, 

Intact Acres 

Remaining

   Cabin Creek (OK006) 2,161.03 10.00 2,151.03 

   Chustenalah (OK003) 11,938.81 0.00 11,938.81 

   Chusto-Talasah (OK002) 5,880.07 0.00 5,880.07 

   Honey Springs (OK007) 6,324.96 1,041.62 5,283.34 

   Middle Boggy Depot 

(OK005) 

Not determined Not determined Not determined 

   Old Fort Wayne 

(OK004) 2,524.75 0.00 2,524.75 

   Round Mountain 

(OK001) 

Not determined Not determined Not determined 

Totals 28,829.62 1,051.62 27,778.00

* For details, see each site's Individual Battlefield Profile 

Public Access and Interpretation 

In its questionnaire, the ABPP asked battlefield stewards about the types of public access 

and interpretation available at the battlefield. The ABPP did not collect information about 

the purpose or intent of the interpretation and access, such as whether a wayside exhibit 

was developed for purely educational reasons, to promote heritage tourism, or to boost 

local economic development. 

 

21 Because Study Areas for Middle Boggy Depot and Round Mountain were not determined, protected lands data for those 

battlefields cannot be accurately evaluated. The Oklahoma Historical Society owns approximately 10 acres of land at the 

Confederate Memorial Museum and Cemetery, which commemorates the battle of Middle Boggy Depot. The Oklahoma Tourism 

and Recreation Department owns approximately 35 acres at Boggy Depot State Park. These sites may represent protected battlefield 

lands, but, until additional research and documentation allows for accurate mapping of the Middle Boggy Depot battlefield, the 

ABPP cannot determine if these properties contribute to the protection of the battlefield. 
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The ABPP asked respondents to indicate the type of interpretation available at or about 

the battlefield. The categories included brochures, driving tours, living history 

demonstrations, maintained historic features or areas, walking tours and trails, wayside 

exhibits, websites, and other specialized programs. The results indicate that all of 

Oklahoma’s Civil War battlefields offer some degree of public interpretation. In most 

cases, this interpretation is limited to commemorative markers. 

Only 10 acres, or 1 percent, of the Cabin Creek battlefield is accessible within the 

boundaries of the Oklahoma Historical Society’s Cabin Creek Battlefield Park. At Honey 

Springs, almost 1,042 acres, or 16 percent, of the battlefield landscape is publicly 

accessible within the Oklahoma Historical Society’s Honey Springs Battlefield Park. There is 

no land set aside for visitors to access the battlefields of Chustenahlah, Chusto-Talasah, 

or Fort Wayne.

22

Table 6: Interpretation Summary

On-site Interpretation Battlefield

Battlefields with public interpretation, including 

visitors center (1)

Honey Springs (OK007) 

Battlefields with public interpretation, but no 

visitors center (4) 

Cabin Creek (OK006) 

Chustenahlah(OK003) 

Chusto-Talasah (OK002) 

Old Fort Wayne (OK004) 

Battlefields with no public interpretation (0) None 

Battlefields that were not assessed (2) Middle Boggy Depot (OK004) 

Round Mountain (OK001)

Figure 6. Interpretive 

panel at the Oklahoma 

Historical Society’s Honey 

Springs Battlefield Park. 

Photo by Joseph Brent, 

2008. 

 

22 Because Study Areas for Middle Boggy Depot and Round Mountain were not determined, accessible lands data for those 

battlefields cannot be accurately evaluated. The Oklahoma Historical Society owns approximately 10 acres of land at the 

Confederate Memorial Museum and Cemetery and the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department owns approximately 35 

acres at Boggy Depot State Park. These sites may represent publically accessible battlefield lands at Middle Boggy Depot, however, 

until additional research and documentation determines the historical boundaries of the battlefield, ABPP cannot include these 

properties within its acreage total for accessible lands. 
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Local Advocacy

Nonprofit organizations play important roles in protecting historic battlefields. These 

organizations step in to preserve historic sites when public funding and management for 

historic preservation are absent. When public funding is available, nonprofits serve as vital 

partners in public-private preservation efforts, acting as conduits for public funds, raising 

critical private matching funds, keeping history and preservation in the public eye, and 

working with landowners to find ways to protect battlefield parcels. 

Unfortunately, the Chustenahlah, Chusto-Talasah, Middle Boggy Depot, Old Fort 

Wayne and Round Mountain battlefields do not have nonprofit groups to advocate for 

preservation interests. Only Honey Springs and Cabin Creek benefit from the efforts of 

private nonprofit groups. 

The Friends of Honey Springs Battlefield formed in 1991 to promote, support, and assist in 

programs and services at the Honey Springs Battlefield Historic Site (also managed by the 

Oklahoma Historical Society). The organization hosts an annual memorial service, 

sponsors re-enactments, maintains and operates a gift shop, and engages in additional 

community education projects. 

Since 1994, the Friends of Cabin Creek Battlefield, Inc., has worked with citizens and 

elected officials to advocate for the preservation of Cabin Creek’s historic landscape. 

Recent efforts by the organization include fundraising for the development of an 

interpretive kiosk at the Cabin Creek Battlefield Park, which is managed by the Oklahoma 

Historical Society. In the past, the Friends of Cabin Creek Battlefield, Inc., has used grant 

funding to support monument preservation projects and park infrastructure 

enhancements. 

While other organizations with more general historical interests may also play important 

roles in preserving Oklahoma’s battlefields, Table 7 identifies the only known local 

organizations in Oklahoma dedicated solely to the goals of battlefield preservation, 

interpretation, and promotion. 

Table 7: Active Battlefield Friends Groups 

Battlefield Friends Group(s) Year 

Founded 

Cabin Creek (OK006) Friends of Cabin Creek Battlefield, Inc. 1994

Chustenahlah (OK003) None

Chusto-Talasah (OK002) None

Honey Springs (OK007) Friends of Honey Springs Battlefield 1991

Middle Boggy Depot (OK005) None

Old Fort Wayne (OK004) None

Round Mountain (OK001) None
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Figure 7. Expansion of industrial-scale chicken farms and residential housing development 

represent the greatest threats to the Old Fort Wayne landscape. Photograph by Joseph Brent, 

2008. 

Figure 8. While parts of the Chusto-Talasah battlefield retain their historic character, other 

portions of the landscape at have been altered by residential and commercial development.
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Battlefield Profile Glossary

Location County or city in which the battlefield is located. 

Campaign Name of military campaign of which the battle was part. Campaign 

 names are taken from The War of the Rebellion: a Compilation of 

 the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies. 

 

Battle Date(s) Day or days upon which the battle took place, as determined by the 

 Civil War Sites Advisory Commission. 

Principal Commanders Ranking commanders of opposing forces during the battle. 

Forces Engaged Name or description of largest units engaged during the battle. 

Results Indicates battle victor or inconclusive outcome. 

Study Area Acreage determined by the ABPP to represent the full extent of land 

associated with the historic battle. 

Potential National Acreage of land that retains historic character and may be eligible for

Register Lands listing in the National Register of Historic Places (see Table 2). 

 

Protected Lands Estimated acreage (based on questionnaires and GIS) of battlefield 

land that is in public or private non-profit ownership, or is under 

permanent protective easement, and is managed specifically for 1) 

the purposes of maintaining the historic character of the landscape 

and for preventing future impairment or destruction of the landscape 

and historic features, or for 2) a conservation purpose and use 

compatible with the goals of historic landscape preservation. 

Publicly Accessible Estimated acreage (based on responses to questionnaires) 

Lands within the Study Area maintained for public visitation. 

 

Management Area Name of historic site, park, or other area maintained for battlefield 

resource protection and/or public visitation.

Friends Group(s) Name of local advocacy organization(s) that support preservation 

 activities at/for the battlefield. 

Preservation Indicates which types of preservation activities have taken place at 

Activities the battlefield since 1993 (based on responses to questionnaires). 

Since 1993 

 

Public Indicates which types of interpretation/educational activities have 

Interpretation taken place at the battlefield since 1993 (based on responses 

Since 1993 to questionnaires).

Condition Statement The ABPP’s assessment of the overall condition of the battlefield’s 

Study Area (based on field surveys and responses to questionnaires). 

Historical Designation Notes the most prestigious federal historical designation the 

battlefield has received (i.e. national park unit, National Historic 

Landmark, or National Register of Historic Places). 

Individual Battlefield Profiles 
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Cabin Creek (OK006) 

Location Mayes County 

Campaign Operations to Control Indian Territory (1863) 

Battle Date(s) July 1-2, 1863 

Principal Commanders Colonel James M. Williams [US]; Colonel Stand Watie [CS] 

Forces Engaged Fort Scott Relief Column (consisting of six companies of the 2nd

Colorado Infantry, one company each of the 3rd Wisconsin, 9th

Kansas and 14th Kansas Cavalries, the 1st Kansas Colored Infantry, 

the 3rd Indian Regiment, and the 2nd Kansas Artillery) [US]; 1st

Cherokee Mounted Rifles, First Creek Mounted Volunteers, a 

detachment of the 29th Texas Cavalry, and a detachment of 

Martin’s Partisan Rangers [CS] 

Results Union victory 

Study Area 2,161.03 acres 

 The Study Area was expanded to the northeast to incorporate battle 

movement along what is thought to be the remains of the Texas Road. 

The Study Area ends where Confederate combatants crossed the southern 

bend of Cabin Creek, breaking contact with Federal forces. The Core Area 

was expanded in the southwest to incorporate the fighting retreat of the 

Confederate forces.

Potential National 2,161.03 acres 

Register Lands 

 

Protected Lands 10.00 acres 

Oklahoma Historical Society, fee simple 

Publicly Accessible Lands 10.00 acres 

Cabin Creek Battlefield Park, Oklahoma Historical Society 

Management Area(s) Cabin Creek Battlefield Park 

Friends Group(s) The Friends of Cabin Creek Battlefield, Inc. (1994) 

Preservation Activities 9 Advocacy

Since 1993 Cultural Resource Surveys and Inventories 

9 Fundraising 

9 Interpretation Projects 

 Land or Development Rights Purchased 

 Legislation 

 Planning Projects 

9 Research and Documentation 

 Other 

Public Interpretation Brochure(s)

Since 1993 9 Driving Tour

9 Living History 

9 Maintained Historic Features/Areas 

 Visitor Center 

9 Walking Tour/Trails 

 
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9 Wayside Exhibits/Signs 

 Website 

9 Other 

 Monument 

 Kiosk 

Condition Statement Land use is little changed since the period of significance. Most of 

the battlefield retains integrity, with the creek, its floodplain, and 

the open agricultural fields intact. Some new houses have been 

built in the area, and although their impact on the battlefield is 

still limited, their presence could foretell a more widespread 

residential development threat.

Historical Designation National Register of Historic Places (Cabin Creek Battlefield, 1971)
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Chustenahlah (OK003) 

Location Osage County 

Campaign Operations in the Indian Territory (1861) 

Battle Date(s) December 26, 1861 

Principal Commanders Chief Opothleyahola [US]; Colonel Douglas H. Cooper [CS] 

Forces Engaged Creek, Cherokee, and Seminole allies [US]; Indian 

 Department [CS] 

Results Confederate victory 

Study Area 11,938.81 acres 

The Study Area was revised when the primary Core Area and 

Confederate route of advance were identified at the confluence of 

Battle Creek and Quapaw Creek. An additional Core Area was added 

to include the location of initial engagement, which occurred more 

than a mile south of the most intense fighting. 

Potential National 11,938.81 acres 

Register Lands 

Protected Lands 0.00 acres 

Publicly Accessible Lands 0.00 acres

Management Area(s) None 

Friends Group(s) None

Preservation Activities Advocacy

Since 1993 Cultural Resource Surveys and Inventories 

 Fundraising 

9 Interpretation Projects 

 Land or Development Rights Purchased 

 Legislation 

9 Planning Projects 

9 Research and Documentation 

Public Interpretation Brochure(s) 

Since 1993 Driving Tour 

 Living History 

 Maintained Historic Features/Areas 

 Visitor Center 

 Walking Tour/Trails 

9 Wayside Exhibits/Signs

 Website 

 Other 

Condition Statement Portions of the landscape have been altered, but most essential 

features remain. Located in the valley surrounding Battle Creek, 

Chustenalah retains much of its historic integrity. Most of the 

valley and hillsides are owned by a few families who use the land 

 for cattle ranching and hunting. Some single-family homes have 
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 been built along the roads connecting to State Route 20. The 

Skiatook area is within easy commuting distance of Tulsa. Given 

this proximity, these homes could represent the beginnings of 

more invasive residential development on the battlefield. 

Historical Designation None 
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Chusto-Talasah (OK002) 

Location Tulsa County 

Campaign Operations in the Indian Territory (1861) 

Battle Date(s) December 9, 1861 

Principal Commanders Chief Opothleyahola [US]; Colonel Douglas H. Cooper [CS] 

Forces Engaged Creek, Cherokee, and Seminole allies [US]; Indian Department [CS] 

Results Confederate victory 

Study Area 6,587.66 acres 

The Study Area has been adjusted to follow the actual contours of the 

creeks and rivers that define this battlefield. The Core Area has been 

centered around the horseshoe bend of Bird Creek where Confederate 

forces attacked Chief Opothleyahola’s warriors. 

Potential National 5,880.07 acres 

Register Lands 

Protected Lands 0.00 acres 

Publicly Accessible Lands 0.00 acres 

Management Area(s) None 

Friends Group(s) None

Preservation Activities Advocacy 

Since 1993 Cultural Resource Surveys and Inventories 

 Fundraising 

9 Interpretation Projects

 Land or Development Rights Purchased 

 Legislation 

 Planning Projects 

9 Research and Documentation 

Public Interpretation Brochure(s) 

Since 1993 Driving Tour 

 Living History 

 Maintained Historic Features/Areas 

 Visitor Center 

 Walking Tour/Trails 

9 Wayside Exhibits/Signs

 Website 

 Other 

Condition Statement While approximately 89 percent of the Study Area retains 

integrity, the center of the battlefield Core Area has been 

destroyed. The area within the horseshoe bend has been mined 

for sand and is approximately 20 feet lower than it was in 1861. 

 The battlefield’s proximity to Tulsa has resulted in significant 

housing development west of the horseshoe bend. In addition, an 
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auto salvage yard and oil well operations have also damaged the 

integrity of western portions of the battlefield. Intact features 

include Bird Creek, the bluff and adjacent floodplain, and some 

undisturbed farmland. Further expansion of residential and 

industrial development will pose a significant threat to the 

remaining battlefield. 

Historical Designation None 
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Honey Springs (OK007) 

Location Muskogee and McIntosh counties 

Campaign Operations to Control Indian Territory (1863) 

Battle Date(s) July 17, 1863 

Principal Commanders Major General James G. Blunt [US]; Brigadier General Douglas H. 

Cooper [CS] 

Forces Engaged District of the Frontier [US]; 1st Brigade, Indian Department [CS] 

Results Union Victory 

Study Area 6,470.15 acres 

 The Study Area was updated to incorporate the Federal advance along 

what is thought to be the historic Texas Road and to include the 

Confederate retreat across the prairie toward Confederate-controlled Fort 

Smith to the southeast. The original Core Area has been divided into two 

distinct areas to reflect the locations of two separate actions – the 

attempted Confederate ambush and the Federal attack on the 

Confederate depot at Honey Springs. 

Potential National 6,324.96 acres 

Register Lands 

Protected Lands 1,041.62 acres 

Oklahoma Historical Society, fee simple 

Publicly Accessible Lands 1,041.62 acres 

Honey Springs Battlefield, Oklahoma Historical Society 

Management Area(s) Honey Springs Battlefield 

Friends Group(s) Friends of Honey Springs Battlefield (1991)

Preservation Activities 9 Advocacy 

Since 1993 9 Cultural Resource Surveys and Inventories

9 Fundraising 

9 Interpretation Projects 

9 Land or Development Rights Purchased

9 Legislation

9 Planning Projects 

9 Research and Documentation 

Public Interpretation 9 Brochure(s)

Since 1993 9 Driving Tour

9 Living History 

9 Maintained Historic Features/Areas 

9 Visitor Center 

9 Walking Tour/Trails 

9 Wayside Exhibits/Signs 

9 Website 

 www.okhistory.org/outreach/military/honeysprings.html 

 www.honeysprings.org 

9 Other 

 On-going programs and events
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Condition Statement Land use is little changed since the period of significance. Most of 

the Study Area and Core Area retain integrity. This remarkably 

intact and well preserved battlefield includes Elk Creek, the 

remains of the historic Texas Road, and the rolling landscape 

typical of the area in 1863. Houses adjacent to the state historic 

site, the driving route constructed to provide public access to the 

site, and utility easements through the battlefield diminish the 

integrity of this landscape only slightly. Future threats may 

include incompatible development in privately owned in-holdings 

within the historic site, utility construction, and expansion of the 

Town of Rentiesville. 

Historical Designation National Register of Historic Places (Honey Springs Battlefield, 

1970) 
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Middle Boggy Depot (OK005) 

Location Undetermined 

Campaign Operations in the Indian Territory (1864) 

Battle Date(s) February 13, 1864 

Principal Commanders Major Charles Willette [US]; Lieutenant Colonel John Jumper [CS] 

Forces Engaged Three companies of the 14th Kansas Cavalry Regiment and a 

section of Howitzers [US]; Seminole Battalion, Company A, 1st

Choctaw and Chickasaw Cavalry Regiment, and a detachment of 

20th Texas Regiment [CS] 

Results Union victory 

Study Area Not determined 

The battlefield was not positively identified in 1993. Two possible 

locations have been identified. Further research, archeological survey, 

and tribal consultation are necessary to definitively locate the 

battlefield.

Potential National Not determined 

Register Lands 

Protected Lands Not determined 

 

Publicly Accessible Lands Not determined 

Management Area(s) Not determined 

Friends Group(s) None

Preservation Activities Advocacy 

Since 1993 Cultural Resource Surveys and Inventories 

 Fundraising 

9 Interpretation Projects 

 Land or Development Rights Purchased 

 Legislation 

 Planning Projects 

 Research and Documentation 

 Other 

Public Interpretation Brochure(s)

Since 1993 Driving Tour

9 Living History

 Maintained Historic Features/Areas 

 Visitor Center 

 Walking Tour/Trails 

9 Wayside Exhibits/Signs 

9 Website 

 Other 

Condition Statement In 1993, CWSAC surveyors determined additional research, 

archeological investigation, and tribal consultation would be 

required to identify the full extent of the battlefield’s historic 

boundaries, and did not establish a Study Area for Middle Boggy 
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Depot. Because sufficient research, archeological investigation, 

and tribal consultation have not been undertaken since 1993, the 

ABPP remains unable to map the battlefield accurately, and 

cannot assess its condition. 

Historical Designation National Register of Historic Places (Middle Boggy Battlefield Site 

 and Confederate Cemetery, 1972)23

 

23 In 1972, efforts to commemorate the battle of Middle Boggy Depot included the listing of a one-acre cemetery in Atoka County. 

The National Register of Historic Places nomination noted that no attempt had been made to determine the precise boundaries of 

the battlefield. In 1993, CWSAC surveyors determined additional research, archeological investigation, and tribal consultation

would be required to identify the full extent of battlefield’s historic boundaries and did not establish a Study Area for Middle Boggy 

Depot. That requirement s was not met. Thus, the ABPP has determined Middle Boggy Depot still cannot be mapped accurately. 
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Old Fort Wayne (OK004) 

Location Delaware County; Benton County, AK 

Campaign Operations North of Boston Mountains (1862) 

Battle Date(s) October 22, 1862 

Principal Commanders Brigadier General James G. Blunt [US]; Colonel Douglas H. Cooper [CS] 

Forces Engaged First Division, Army of the Frontier [US]; First Brigade, Indian 

Department [CS] 

Results Union victory 

Study Area 2,538.70 acres (2,524.75 acres in Oklahoma; 13.95 acres in Arkansas)

 The Study Area was expanded to include the Union pursuit of the 

Confederate Indian Brigade from Maysville, Arkansas. When the two 

forces engaged near Old Fort Wayne, Hog Eye Creek and its ditch 

restricted expansion of the battle action. These features represent the 

eastern-most edge of the battlefield Study Area. The battle ended when 

Union combatants broke off pursuit of the retreating Confederates at 

Spavinaw Creek. That creek is the battlefield’s southern boundary. 

Potential National 2,538.70 acres (2,524.75 acres in Oklahoma; 13.95 acres in Arkansas)

Register Lands 

Protected Lands 0.00 acres 

 

Publicly Accessible Lands 0.00 acres 

Management Area(s) None 

 

Friends Group(s) None

Preservation Activities Advocacy

Since 1993 Cultural Resource Surveys and Inventories

 Fundraising 

9 Interpretation Projects 

Land or Development Rights Purchased 

 Legislation 

 Planning Projects 

 Research and Documentation

 Other 

Public Interpretation Brochure(s)

Since 1993 Driving Tour

 Living History 

 Maintained Historic Features/Areas 

 Visitor Center 

 Walking Tour/Trails 

9 Wayside Exhibits/Signs 

 Website 

 Other 

Condition Statement Portions of the battlefield terrain have been altered, but most 

essential features remain. The Old Fort Wayne landscape retains a 
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 rural character, with the rolling terrain of Spavinaw Creek’s wide 

northern flood plain remaining intact. Row crops and poultry 

farms can be found throughout the battlefield. Some of the 

large poultry houses compromise the landscape and viewshed. In 

addition, new residential construction is scattered across the Study 

Area. In most cases, these structures have replaced or have been 

located next to existing homes along the road frontage. Increased 

housing development and industrial-scale poultry farming 

represent significant threats to the integrity of Old Fort Wayne. 

Historical Designation None 
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Round Mountain (OK001) 

Location Not determined 

Campaign Operations in the Indian Territory (1861) 

Battle Date(s) November 19, 1861 

Principal Commanders Chief Opothleyahola [US]; Colonel Douglas H. Cooper [CS] 

Forces Engaged Creek, Cherokee, and Seminole allies [US]; Six companies of the 

First Regiment Choctaw and Chickasaw Mounted Rifles, a 

detachment of the 9th Texas Cavalry, the Creek Regiment, and the 

Creek and Seminole Battalion [CS] 

Results Confederate victory 

Study Area Not determined

 The battlefield was not positively identified in 1993 and its location 

remains hotly debated. Further research, archeological investigation, 

and tribal consultation are necessary to definitively locate the 

battlefield.

Potential National Not determined 

Register Lands 

Protected Lands Not determined 

Publicly Accessible Lands Not determined 

 

Management Area(s) Not determined 

Friends Group(s) None

Preservation Activities Advocacy

Since 1993 Cultural Resource Surveys and Inventories 

 Fundraising 

9 Interpretation Projects 

Land or Development Rights Purchased 

 Legislation 

 Planning Projects 

9 Research and Documentation 

Public Interpretation Brochure(s) 

Since 1993 Driving Tour 

 Living History 

 Maintained Historic Features/Areas 

 Visitor Center 

 Walking Tour/Trails 

9 Wayside Exhibits/Signs 

 Website 

 Other 

Condition Statement In 1993, CWSAC surveyors determined additional research, 

archeological investigation, and tribal consultation would be 

required to identify the full extent of the battlefield’s historic 

 boundaries, and did not establish a Study Area for Round 

Mountain. Because sufficient research, archeological 
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investigation, and tribal consultation hav not been undertaken 

since 1993, the ABPP remains unable to map the battlefield 

accurately, and cannot assess its condition. 

Historical Designation None 
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Appendices 

Appendix A. Civil War Battlefield Preservation Act of 2002 

Public Law 107-359, 111 Stat. 3016, 17 December 2002 

Amends the American Battlefield Protection Program Act of 1996 (16 U.S.C. 469k) 

An Act 

 

To amend the American Battlefield Protection Act of 1996 to authorize the Secretary of the Interior 

to establish a battlefield acquisition grant program. 

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in 

Congress assembled, 

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. 

This Act may be cited as the ``Civil War Battlefield Preservation Act of 2002''. 

SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES. 

 (a) Findings.--Congress finds the following 

 (1) Civil War battlefields provide a means for the people of 

 the United States to understand a tragic period in the history 

 of the United States. 

 (2) According to the Report on the Nation's Civil War 

 Battlefields, prepared by the Civil War Sites Advisory 

 Commission, and dated July 1993, of the 384 principal Civil War 

 battlefields-- 

 (A) almost 20 percent are lost or fragmented; 

 (B) 17 percent are in poor condition; and 

 (C) 60 percent have been lost or are in imminent 

 danger of being fragmented by development and lost as 

 coherent historic sites. 

 (b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are-- 

 (1) to act quickly and proactively to preserve and protect 

 nationally significant Civil War battlefields through 

 conservation easements and fee-simple purchases of those 

 battlefields from willing sellers; and 

 (2) to create partnerships among State and local 

 governments, regional entities, and the private sector to 

 preserve, conserve, and enhance nationally significant Civil War 

 battlefields. 

SEC. 3. BATTLEFIELD ACQUISITION GRANT PROGRAM. 

The American Battlefield Protection Act of 1996 (16 U.S.C. 469k) is amended-- 

 (1) by redesignating subsection (d) as paragraph (3) of 

 subsection (c), and indenting appropriately; 

 (2) in paragraph (3) of subsection (c) (as redesignated by 

 paragraph (1))-- 

 (A) by striking ``Appropriations'' and inserting 

 ``appropriations''; and 

 (B) by striking ``section'' and inserting 
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 ``subsection''; 

 (3) by inserting after subsection (c) the following 

 ``(d) Battlefield Acquisition Grant Program.-- 

 ``(1) Definitions.--In this subsection 

 ``(A) Battlefield report.--The term `Battlefield 

 Report' means the document entitled `Report on the 

 Nation's Civil War Battlefields', prepared by the Civil 

 War Sites Advisory Commission, and dated July 1993. 

 ``(B) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' 

 means a State or local government. 

 ``(C) Eligible site.--The term `eligible site' means 

 a site-- 

 ``(i) that is not within the exterior 

 boundaries of a unit of the National Park System; 

 and 

 ``(ii) that is identified in the Battlefield 

 Report. 

 ``(D) Secretary.--The term `Secretary' means the 

 Secretary of the Interior, acting through the American 

 Battlefield Protection Program. 

 ``(2) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a 

 battlefield acquisition grant program under which the Secretary 

 may provide grants to eligible entities to pay the Federal share 

 of the cost of acquiring interests in eligible sites for the 

 preservation and protection of those eligible sites. 

 ``(3) Nonprofit partners.--An eligible entity may acquire an 

 interest in an eligible site using a grant under this subsection 

 in partnership with a nonprofit organization. 

 ``(4) Non-federal share.--The non-Federal share of the total 

 cost of acquiring an interest in an eligible site under this 

 subsection shall be not less than 50 percent. 

 ``(5) Limitation on land use.--An interest in an eligible 

 site acquired under this subsection shall be subject to section 

 6(f)(3) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (16 

 U.S.C. 460l-8(f)(3)). 

 ``(6) Reports.-- 

 ``(A) In general.--Not later than 5 years after the 

 date of the enactment of this subparagraph, the 

 Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the 

 activities carried out under this subsection. 

 ``(B) Update of battlefield report.--Not later than 

 2 years after the date of the enactment of this 

 subsection, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a 

 report that updates the Battlefield Report to reflect-- 

 ``(i) preservation activities carried out at 

 the 384 battlefields during the period between 

 publication of the Battlefield Report and the 

 update; 

 ``(ii) changes in the condition of the 

 battlefields during that period; and 

 ``(iii) any other relevant developments 

 relating to the battlefields during that period. 

 ``(7) Authorization of appropriations.-- 

 ``(A) In general.--There are authorized to be 

 appropriated to the Secretary from the Land and Water 

 Conservation Fund to provide grants under this 
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 subsection $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2004 

 through 2008. 

 ``(B) Update of battlefield report.--There are 

 authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry 

 out paragraph (6)(B), $500,000.''; and 

 (4) in subsection (e)-- 

 (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``as of'' and all 

 that follows through the period and inserting ``on 

 September 30, 2008.''; and 

 (B) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``and provide 

 battlefield acquisition grants'' after ``studies''. 

-end- 
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Appendix B. Battlefield Questionnaire 

State 

Battlefield 

Person Completing Form 

Date of completion 

I. Protected Lands of the Battlefield (“Protected lands” are these “owned” for historic 

preservation or conservation purposes. Please provide information on land protected since 1993.) 

Identify protected lands by parcel since 1993. Then answer these questions about each parcel, 

following example in the chart below. What is the acreage of each parcel? Is parcel owned fee 

simple, by whom? Is there is an easement, if so name easement holder? Was the land purchased or 

the easement conveyed after 1993? What was cost of purchase or easement? What was source of 

funding and the amount that source contributed? Choose from these possible sources: Coin money, 

LWCF, Farm Bill, State Government, Local Government, Private Owner, Private Non-Profit (provide 

name), or Other (describe). 

Parcel Acres Owner Easement Year Cost Source 

Joe Smith Farm 194 Private SHPO 1995 $500,000 LWCF/$250,000 

 Private/$250,000 

Sue Jones Tract 16 Battlefield Friends, Inc. No 2002 $41,000 State/$20,000 

 BFI/$21,000 

2) Other public or non-profit lands within the battlefield? (Y/N) 

• If yes, describe 

• Name of public or non-profit owner or easement holder 

• Number of Acres owned/held 

3) Is the information in a GIS? (Y/N) 

 If yes, may NPS obtain a copy of the data? (Y/N) 
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II. Preservation Groups

1) Is there a formal interested entity (friends group, etc) associated with the battlefield? (Y/N)

 If yes 

 Name 

 Address 

 Phone 

 Fax 

 E-mail 

 Web site? (Y/N) 

 If yes, what is the URL? 

 Does the web site have a preservation message? (Y/N) 

 What year did the group form? 

III. Public Access and Interpretation

1) Does the site have designated Public Access? (Y/N) (Count public roads if there are designated 

interpretive signs or pull-offs) 

If yes, what entity provides the public access (Access may occur on lands owned in fee or under 

 easement to the above entities) 

F Federal government 

F State government 

F Local government 

F Private Nonprofit organization 

F Private owner 

F Other 

Name of entity (if applicable) 

Number of Acres Accessible to the Public (size of the area in which the public may physically visit 

without trespassing. Do not include viewsheds.) 

2) Does the site have interpretation? (Y/N) 

If yes, what type of interpretation is available? 

F Visitor Center 

F Brochure(s) 

F Wayside exhibits 

F Driving Tour 

F Walking Tour 

F Audio tour tapes 

F Maintained historic features/areas 

F Living History 

F Website 

F Other

IV. Registration 

Applies only to the battlefield landscape, not to individual contributing features of a battlefield 

(i.e., the individually listed Dunker Church property of .2 acres does not represent the Antietam 

battlefield for the purposes of this exercise) 

1) Is the site a designated National Historic Landmark? (Y/N) 

 If yes, NHL and ID Number 

2) Is the site listed in the National Register? (Y/N)

 If yes, NRHP Name and ID Number 

3) Is the site listed in the State Register? (Y/N) 

 If yes, State Register Name and ID Number 
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4) Is the site in the State Inventory? (Y/N) 

 If yes, State Inventory Name and ID Number 

5) Is the site designated as a local landmark or historic site? (Y/N) 

 Type of Designation/Listing 

V. Program Activities

What types of preservation program activities have occurred at the battlefield? Provide final 

product name and date if applicable (e.g., Phase I Archeological Survey Report on the Piper Farm, 

1994 and Antietam Preservation Plan, 2001, etc.) 

1) Research and Documentation 

2) Cultural Resource surveys and inventories (building/structure and landscape inventories, 

archeological surveys, landscape surveys, etc.) 

3) Planning Projects (preservation plans, site management plans, cultural landscape reports, etc.) 

4) Interpretation Projects (also includes education) 

5) Advocacy (any project meant to engage the public in a way that would benefit the preservation 

of the site, e.g. PR, lobbying, public outreach, petitioning for action, etc.) 

6) Legislation (any local, state, or federal legislation designed to encourage preservation of the 

battlefield individually or together with other similar sites) 

7) Fundraising 

a. To support program activities? 

b. To support land acquisition/easements? 

8) Other 
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Appendix C. Civil War Battlefield Land Acquisition Grants 

The Civil War Battlefield Preservation Act of 2002 (PL 107-359) amended the American 

Battlefield Protection Act of 1996 (16 USC 469k) to authorize a matching grant program to 

assist States and local communities in acquiring significant Civil War battlefield lands for 

permanent protection. Most recently, Congress showed its continued support for these 

grants through its reauthorization of this program within the Omnibus Public Land 

Management Act of 2009 (PL 111-11). 

Eligible battlefields are those listed in the 1993 Report on the Nation’s Civil War 

Battlefields prepared by the Congressionally chartered Civil War Sites Advisory Commission 

(CWSAC). Eligible acquisition projects may be for fee interest in land or for a protective 

interest such as a perpetual easement. 

Since 1998, Congress has appropriated a total of $38.9 million for this Civil War Battlefield 

Land Acquisition Grants (CWBLAG) Program. These grants have assisted in the permanent 

protection of more than 15,550.00 acres at 62 Civil War battlefields in 14 states. CWBLAG 

monies have only been used to help protect one battlefield in Oklahoma. All five of the 

state’s battlefields that have been mapped by the CWSAC and the ABPP – Cabin Creek, 

Chustenahlah, Chusto-Talasah, Honey Springs, and Old Fort Wayne – are eligible to 

apply for CWBLAG funding. The battlefields of Middle Boggy Depot and Round Mountain 

will become eligible for CWBLAG funding when the necessary research and archeological 

investigation activities are undertaken, and once the ABPP can assign Study Areas to both 

battlefields. 

Battlefield 

CWSAC 

Priority 

Total 

Acres 

Acquired

Total

CWBLAG

Funds

Total 

Non-Federal 

Leveraged 

Funds 

Total 

Acquisition

Costs

 

Honey Springs 

(OK007) I 78.75 $26,250.00 $52,500.00 $78,750.00

Total 78.75 $26,250.00 $52,500.00 $78,750.00

 
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Appendix D. American Battlefield Protection Program Planning Grants 

Since 1992, ABPP has offered annual planning grants to nonprofit organizations, academic 

institutions, and local, regional, state, and tribal governments to help protect battlefields 

located on American soil. Applicants are encouraged to work with partner organizations 

and federal, state, and local government agencies as early as possible to integrate their 

efforts into a larger battle site protection strategy. In Oklahoma, the ABPP has awarded 

$142,200.00. Although all seven battlefields in the state are eligible, almost 75 percent of 

the ABPP planning grant funding awarded in Oklahoma has been for projects at Honey 

Springs. 

Grantee Year Project Title Award 

 

Oklahoma Historical Society 2002 Oklahoma Historical Society Regional $36,000.00

 Map of Civil War Battlefields

 1996 Honey Springs Educational Program $15,000.00

 1995 Phase I Archeological Survey of $29,000.00

 Honey Springs Battlefield

 1994 Archeological Reconnaissance of $22,200.00

 Honey Springs Battlefield

 1992 Appraise Land Identified in Honey Springs $20,000.00

 Battlefield Protection Plan

University of Arkansas, 1994 General Management Plan for $20,000.00

Center for Applied Special Honey Spring Battlefield 

Technology 

Total ABPP Planning Grants to Oklahoma Battlefields as of FY2009 $142,200.00