Press Release
October 2, 2025
Contact: Molly Hutchins
Honey Springs Battlefield, Oklahoma Historical Society
Office: 918-617-7125
[email protected]
okhistory.org/honeysprings
“Sabers and Shotguns” Program Planned at Honey Springs Battlefield
CHECOTAH, Okla. — On Saturday, October 18, at 10:30 a.m., Cody Faber from the Fort Smith National Historic Site will teach visitors about the use of the cavalry in the Civil War and the Battle of Honey Springs. Faber’s horses will be a part of the program.
Thousands of both Union and Confederate troops would be mounted during the war in Indian Territory. From well-outfitted Union cavalry with saber and carbine to sparsely outfitted Confederate tribal cavalry with shotguns, these men would be the scourge to both sides in battle and guerrilla warfare alike. The program will focus on their arms, equipment, saddles, tack and the most important weapon, the horse. Come see how these mounted soldiers greatly affected the war in Indian Territory.
Faber is a park ranger, volunteer, living history interpreter and historic weapons coordinator who works at the Fort Smith National Historic Site in Arkansas.
This program is included with paid admission to the site, and no registration is required. For more information, call 918-617-7125 or email [email protected].
Honey Springs Battlefield is located east of US Highway 69 between Oktaha and Rentiesville. The Visitor Center is located on a hill near the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame in Rentiesville. Take the second left after reaching the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame Museum (driving from the west).
Honey Springs Battlefield is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications, the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit okhistory.org.
###
Editor’s Note: Photos of Honey Springs Battlefield are available upon request.
