“Battle of Hayes Pond” and “Battle of Maxton Field” were dramatic labels for an event that lasted only a short time.

The word “battle” captured the sense of confrontation but can also mislead modern readers into imagining a formal military engagement.

There were no organized armies.

There was no chain of command on the Lumbee side comparable to a military unit.

There was a Klan rally, a huge community counter-presence, armed tension, fighting, gunfire, and a rout.

The press needed a name.

“Battle” stuck because the outcome looked decisive.

The title also helped turn the event into legend.

A rally can sound administrative.

A riot can sound chaotic.