Stand Waite

Stand Watie
Degataga Oo-watee
Stand Watie was only American Indian to attain rank of Brigadier General during the Civil War and was last Confederate general to surrender. Born in Georgia December 12, 1806, he spoke only the Cherokee language until he was twelve years of age.

When Federal Government began urging Cherokees to move to Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina, to a home west of the Mississippi, Stand was one of those who believed it best for Cherokees to make such a move as signer of the Treaty of New Echota in 1836, which provided for removal of Cherokees to the west. Stand Watie gained enmity of those opposed to such treaty provision.

After removal to the west, Watie married Sarah C. Bell to whom three sons and two daughters were born.

At the outbreak of Civil War, Stand Watie espoused the Southern cause and soon received commission as Colonel in Confederate Army. Among the battles in which he participated were Wilson Creek, Bird Creek, Pea Ridge, Honey Springs, and Cabin Creek. He attained rank of Brigadier General on May 10, 1864.

Was joint commander with General R. M. Gano at Battle of Cabin Creek, fought September 18, 1864. In this battle, Confederates routed Federals and captured about 300 wagons loaded with supplies thus for a time enabling the destitute Indian Confederates to continue the war.

General Stand Watie surrendered his command at Doaksville near Ft. Towson on June 23, 1865.

He died on September 9, 1871. A man of courage, leadership, and loyalty.

Oklahoma Historical Society 1971