Robert Campbell '10 - On a warm, beautiful summer’s day, I found my way to a small state park in Northern Tippecanoe County. Tucked on the side of a small creek, this patch of land played host to a pivotal battle in our nations history, and in the history of the Native Americans of the Ohio Valley. In 1811, this area was the site for a new Indian Confederacy, headed by the Shawnee chief Tecumseh, and his brother “The Prophet”, and where General William Henry Harrison would squelch their hopes.

The Battlefield Museum harbors many exhibits pertaining to this conflict and also the lives of William Henry Harrison, Tecumseh, and “The Prophet.” But most impressive; the fiberglass light display of how the battle happened. The display showed American troop positions, Indian attacks, and the movements of both sides during the battle. Later, upon entering the monument site, I noticed that the park was set up on the same place where the battle took place. I used the information learned from the display to place myself in the actual battle. My imagination came alive as I walked the park and I envisioned the battle; the sights, the sounds, and how truly terrifying it would have been to be on that misty field that morning. The natural beauty of the park was astounding. The trees were in full bloom and the air was crisp and fresh.  It reminded me of how truly beautiful this state is. I envy the Indians for this. They were the ones who truly were able to enjoy and preserve this land. Unfortunately, due to a lack of records, these Indians cannot be properly recognized, however, this park has done an excellent job recognizing them to the best extent they can. 

This experience has shaped my final project into what it has become. I now want to recreate the battle in a way that brings these images forth from my imagination. This battle crippled the dreams of Tecumseh for an Indian confederacy and drove him to join forces with the British in Canada and fight for the Queen in the Battle of Thames, one of he first battle in the War of 1812. William Henry Harrison would go on to become President of the United States, where he passed soon after taking office.