In West Lafayette, Indiana, there is a 53-acre park with some truly stunning vistas. Spend enough time in this spot and you’ll understand why it appealed to the multi-tribal village that was founded here in 1808. The nearby Prophet’s Rock Park and Trail lead to the Battleground of Tippecanoe.
Prophetstown was made up of Shawnees, Kickapoos, Potawatomis, Winnebagos, Sauks, Wyandots, and Ottawas, led by two Shawnee brothers to lay aside past disputes and live together to resist colonial invaders.
David Ellis via Flickr
The community espoused traditional Indigenous values that were being suppressed. They named their new home Prophetstown in honor of one of their leaders, Tenskwatawa, referred to as The Prophet.
Kelly Faboo via Flickr
So much of Native American history has been obscured and lost, it’s a wonderful privilege to be able to witness this special site.
davo86 via Flickr Make sure to ponder the wisdom of the Pan-Indian Confederacy as you peruse all the natural beauty and utility of the area. Prophetstown is located at the intersection of the Wabash and Tippecanoe rivers.
In 1811, when Tecumseh was gone on a recruiting mission, the US Government sent General William Henry Harrison with 1,200 troops to Prophetstown with demands intended to provoke an attack.
David Ellis via Flickr
The troops camped on a ridge nearby, ordered to sleep fully clothed. And the spot became a battleground in the early hours of November 7th, 1811.
Mike Leakey via Flickr
Tenskwatawa gathered troops at the spot now known as Prophet’s Rock and led the Native American warriors in a very fierce battle. The large outcropping of rock was just west of the soon-to-be-battlefield and overlooks Burnett Creek.
via Wikimedia Commons As you stand before Prophet’s Rock, it’s difficult to imagine a more intense gathering this site has witnessed.
This fascinating historical site is as beautiful as ever. Appreciate the history and the views while you explore Prophet’s Rock Park, The Tippecanoe Battlefield, and the reconstructed Village of Prophetstown.
David Ellis via Flickr
Kelly Faboo via Flickr
davo86 via Flickr
Make sure to ponder the wisdom of the Pan-Indian Confederacy as you peruse all the natural beauty and utility of the area. Prophetstown is located at the intersection of the Wabash and Tippecanoe rivers.
Mike Leakey via Flickr
via Wikimedia Commons
As you stand before Prophet’s Rock, it’s difficult to imagine a more intense gathering this site has witnessed.
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Address: Prophets Rock Road, Prophets Rock Rd, Tippecanoe Township, IN 47906, USAAddress: 4112 IN-225, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
