Legends of the Old West: Episode 3 – "Siege of Fort Ridgely"

Host: Chris Wimmer
Release Date: January 29, 2025
Podcast: Legends of the Old West by Black Barrel Media

Introduction

In Episode 3 of Legends of the Old West, titled "Siege of Fort Ridgely," host Chris Wimmer delves deep into one of the most harrowing confrontations of the Dakota War of 1862. This episode meticulously recounts the strategic maneuvers, fierce battles, and the unyielding spirit of both the Dakota warriors and the defenders of Fort Ridgely and New Ulm.

Background of the Dakota War

The Dakota War, ignited on August 17, 1862, was a tumultuous period marked by intense conflict between the Dakota (also known as the Sioux) and European-American settlers in Minnesota. The war was largely fueled by broken treaties, starvation, and the desperate plight of the Dakota people.

• Key Event: On August 18, 1862, Dakota warriors attacked Fort Ridgely, ambushing a company of soldiers led by Captain John Marsh at Redwood Ferry. The surprise attack resulted in significant casualties, leaving Lieutenant Thomas Geer and Sergeant John Bishop to rally the remaining 30 soldiers to defend the fort.

Initial Assaults and the Siege Begins

First Assault on Fort Ridgely ([05:00] – [07:30])

The initial attack on Fort Ridgely was a coordinated effort by Dakota forces aiming to dismantle the fort's defenses swiftly. Despite being outnumbered, the defenders successfully repelled approximately 400 warriors led by the formidable Little Crow.

• Quote: "The defenders had withstood two major assaults from an overwhelming force... their resilience was a source of pride." – Narration by Chris Wimmer ([09:45])

Second Assault – Heightened Determination ([07:30] – [10:00])

Undeterred by the first failure, Little Crow returned with a more substantial force of over 800 warriors. The second assault was meticulously planned, targeting strategic outbuildings to gain advantageous positions.

• Strategic Moves:

  • Dakota warriors captured two outbuildings, transforming them into strongholds.
  • The use of flaming arrows aimed to set the fort ablaze, though rain hindered the effectiveness of this tactic.

• Notable Actions:

  • Sergeant John Bishop and Ordnance Sergeant John Jones made the decisive move to use the fort's three cannons against the captured buildings, forcing the Dakota to retreat or burn themselves out.

Defense Tactics and Heroic Efforts

Artillery as a Turning Point ([08:15] – [09:30])

The introduction of canister shot by Sergeant John Jones proved pivotal. These anti-personnel rounds unleashed devastating shrapnel, akin to the weaponry used on Civil War battlefields, effectively repelling the advancing Dakota forces.

• Quote: "Ordnance Sergeant John Jones proved invaluable... the canister shot ripped through the advancing Dakota forces." – Narration by Chris Wimmer ([09:15])

Desperate Measures and Ingenuity ([09:30] – [10:00])

As ammunition dwindled, the defenders resorted to improvisation, loading iron bars into cannons to maintain their defensive capabilities. This raw survival approach underscored the dire circumstances within Fort Ridgely.

The Human Cost and Emotional Toll

The siege took a heavy emotional toll on both soldiers and civilians. The defenders faced not only physical exhaustion but also the psychological strain of constant attacks and mounting casualties. Families mourned the fallen, and the fort's confined space became a crucible of fear and determination.

• Quote: "The emotional toll was heavy... their resilience was a source of pride." – Narration by Chris Wimmer ([10:30])

Reinforcements and the Turning Tide

Colonel Henry Sibley's March ([10:00] – [12:00])

Colonel Henry Sibley, a seasoned leader with deep knowledge of Dakota culture and language, marshaled a force of 1,400 men to relieve Fort Ridgely. His disciplined approach contrasted with the earlier chaos, bringing hope to the beleaguered defenders.

• Challenges Faced:
  • Sibley's militia comprised farmers and townsmen with minimal military training.
  • Logistical hurdles included scarce supplies, outdated weaponry, and the vast expanse of the Minnesota frontier.

Arrival of Reinforcements ([11:30] – [12:00])

On August 27, 1862, Sibley's reinforcements finally arrived at Fort Ridgely, bolstering the defenses and demoralizing the Dakota warriors, who subsequently retreated deeper into the wilderness.

• Quote: "With Sibley's reinforcements, the fort was now well protected... the Dakota retreated deeper into the wilderness." – Narration by Chris Wimmer ([11:45])

Aftermath and Ongoing Conflict

The successful defense of Fort Ridgely became a symbol of resilience and determination. However, the war was far from over, with ongoing raids and the need for continuous defensive measures across the Minnesota frontier.

• Expansion of Conflict:

  • New Ulm: The town endured fierce assaults, leading to a devastating evacuation on August 25, 1862, after sustaining significant casualties and structural damage.
  • Fort Abercrombie: Another strategic point that faced multiple Dakota attacks, highlighting the widespread nature of the conflict.

• Governor Alexander Ramsey's Response:

  • Tasked with organizing a defensive line, Ramsey collaborated with Judge Charles Flandrau to establish small forts and blockhouses across vulnerable settlements, aiming to stem the Dakota's momentum.

• Prelude to Future Battles:

  • Colonel Sibley's army, despite growing in size, remained under-equipped and inexperienced, setting the stage for subsequent confrontations, including the impending Battle of Wood Lake.

• Historical Insight:

  • William Watts Falwell, a Minnesota historian, remarked, “This was no sham battle, no trivial affair, but a heroic defense of a beleaguered town against a much superior force.” ([09:00])

Conclusion

Episode 3 of Legends of the Old West offers a comprehensive and gripping narrative of the Siege of Fort Ridgely, highlighting the courage and strategic acumen of both the Dakota warriors and the American defenders. Through detailed storytelling and insightful commentary, Chris Wimmer brings to life the complexities and human experiences of this pivotal chapter in the American West's history.

Upcoming Episode:
The next installment promises to explore Colonel Sibley's attempt to honor Captain Marsh and the ensuing Battle of Wood Lake, where the tides begin to turn in favor of the settlers and soldiers.

Additional Resources:

• Research and Writing: Matthew Kearns
• Original Music: Rob Valerier
• Host and Producer: Chris Wimmer

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