Mobridge, South Dakota: Fool Soldiers Monument
Honors the young Lakota "Fool Soldiers" who risked death by exchanging their food to free several white settlers.
- Address:
- 6th St. E., Mobridge, SD
- Directions:
- Downtown, on the north side of 6th St. E. at its intersection with Main St.
- Hours:
- Daylight Local health policies may affect hours and access.
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Around 40 settlers living on the eastern shore of Lake Sketak were attacked by three bands of Indians on August 20, 1862. Fifteen settlers were killed, and a dozen women and children were captured. Three months later a group of young warriors (known as "Fool Soldiers" because they were pacifists) risked their lives to trade the captives for food and goods. A simple monument marks the spot.
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The Fool Soldiers were Lakota warriors, not pacifists, but they believed that "doing good" was even harder than battle, which motivated them to save the captives.