The Clearwater Battle And Its Lessons

Between White Bird Canyon and Big Hole lay the Battle of the Clearwater — fought July 11-12, 1877, near the mouth of the Cottonwood Creek on the Clearwater River.

Howard’s main column had finally caught up with the nimíipuu, who had been operating in the Clearwater drainage after the White Bird victory.

The battle lasted two days and involved significant fighting on both sides.

The nimíipuu successfully disengaged from the battle and continued moving.