Battle of Walla Walla

Significance

The Battle of Walla Walla was the longest engagement of the Yakima War, spanning five days from December 7 to December 11, 1855. The Oregon Mounted Volunteers under James K. Kelly faced a combined force that included not only the Walla Walla under Peo-Peo-Mox-Mox but also Cayuse, Palouse, and Yakama fighters. The multi-tribal coalition opposing six companies of Oregon Mounted Volunteers reflected the broader resistance across the region during the Yakima War, demonstrating that conflict had spread well beyond any single band or grievance. The battle's duration and the breadth of tribal participation underscored the scale of armed opposition American volunteer forces faced in the interior Pacific Northwest during this period.

Commanders (2)