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| Landmark #430 | Modoc County | Visited: March 11, 2016 | Plaque? NO. 🙁 |
| What is it? | The Fort Bidwell Indian Community Center! |
| What makes it historical? | THE GUIDE SAYS: Fort Bidwell, named for John Bidwell, was established in 1865. The fort, which operated until 1893, was one of the last early military posts north of Benicia to be abandoned. From 1898 to 1930, the fort served as a non-reservation boarding school for Indians.
OTHER TIDBITS: There were two Forts Bidwell here, the fort itself, and the town. Troops from this fort took part in the Battle of Infernal Caverns, the Modoc War, and various campaigns against the Bannock and the Nez Perce. The American soldiers weren’t picky about whom they killed and often made excuses, claiming it was impossible to tell men and women apart! As battle morale waned, the town started to diversify. Theatrical performances, pushed by Major Andrew S. Burt, and friendly sharpshooting contests, also dominated by Major Burt, gradually took the place of fighting the local tribes until the Fort was deserted in 1893! |
| How can I Help the Helpers? | HERE’S HOW:
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| Where is this place? | LISTED DIRECTIONS: Fort Bidwell Indian Community Center W end of Bridge St Fort Bidwell 96112 ANNOTATIONS: From Los Angeles: ~687mi (1106km) — 11.5hrs |
| When should I go? | Whenever the mood strikes you! |