Buffalo National Military Park: A Historic Battlefield Preserve

The Buffalo National Military Park, located in Montana, is a significant historic site that commemorates the Battle of Little Bighorn, a pivotal event in American history. This military park is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought and died on its grounds. As a National Military Park, it is a protected area that preserves the natural and cultural resources of the battlefield, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the history of the American West.

The Battle of Little Bighorn, also known as Custer's Last Stand, took place on June 25, 1876. It was a clash between the United States Army's 7th Cavalry Regiment, led by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer, and a combined force of the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes. The battle was a significant defeat for the U.S. Army, resulting in the deaths of over 260 soldiers, including Custer. The battle marked a turning point in the Great Sioux War of 1876 and had far-reaching consequences for the Native American tribes of the region.

History of the Park

The Buffalo National Military Park was established in 1879 as a national cemetery to honor the soldiers who died during the Battle of Little Bighorn. Over the years, the park has undergone several name changes and expansions, with the most significant being the addition of the Reno-Benteen Battlefield in 1991. Today, the park encompasses over 5,200 acres of land, including the Little Bighorn Battlefield, the Reno-Benteen Battlefield, and the Indian Memorial.

Things to Do and See

Visitors to the Buffalo National Military Park can explore the battlefield, museum, and cemetery, as well as participate in ranger-led programs and self-guided tours. Some of the top attractions include:

• The Little Bighorn Battlefield: This is the site of the Battle of Little Bighorn, where visitors can see the graves of the soldiers who died during the battle.
• The Reno-Benteen Battlefield: This is the site of the second battle of the Little Bighorn campaign, where the U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry Regiment clashed with the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes.
• The Indian Memorial: This memorial honors the Native American tribes that fought in the Battle of Little Bighorn and provides a poignant reminder of the significance of the battle.
• The Museum: The park's museum features exhibits on the history of the battle, the U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry Regiment, and the Native American tribes of the region.

Wildlife and Natural Resources

The Buffalo National Military Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, elk, deer, and antelope. The park's natural resources also include rolling hills, prairies, and wooded areas, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the natural beauty of the American West.

Preservation Efforts

The Buffalo National Military Park is a protected area, and the National Park Service works to preserve the natural and cultural resources of the park. This includes:

• Habitat restoration: The park service works to restore the natural habitats of the park's wildlife, including the bison and elk.
• Cultural resource management: The park service works to preserve the cultural resources of the park, including the battlefield and museum.
• Visitor management: The park service works to manage visitor use of the park, ensuring that visitors can experience the park's natural and cultural resources while minimizing their impact.

Plan Your Visit

Visitors to the Buffalo National Military Park can plan their visit by:

• Checking the park's website for hours of operation and visitor information.
• Participating in ranger-led programs and self-guided tours.
• Exploring the park's museum and exhibits.
• Visiting the battlefield and cemetery.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences about the Buffalo National Military Park in the comments below. Have you visited the park? What was your favorite part of the visit? Share your photos and stories with us!

What is the Buffalo National Military Park?

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The Buffalo National Military Park is a historic site that commemorates the Battle of Little Bighorn, a pivotal event in American history.

What is the significance of the Battle of Little Bighorn?

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The Battle of Little Bighorn was a significant defeat for the U.S. Army, resulting in the deaths of over 260 soldiers, including Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer.

What can I do and see at the park?

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Visitors can explore the battlefield, museum, and cemetery, as well as participate in ranger-led programs and self-guided tours.