Irving Howbert
The Indians of the Pike's Peak Region
Including an Account of the Battle of Sand Creek, and of Occurrences in El Paso County, Colorado, during the War with the Cheyennes and Arapahoes, in 1864 and 1868
"The Indians of the Pike's Peak Region" by Irving Howbert is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the lives and struggles of the various Indian tribes that occupied the Pike's Peak area during historic times, particularly focusing on the conflicts that arose during the mid-19th century. The narrative seeks to document the history, culture, and significant events related to these tribes, especially during the tumultuous years of the wars with the Cheyennes and Arapahoes. At the start of the book, Howbert introduces readers to the Indian tribes of the Pike’s Peak region, including the Utes, Comanches, Kiowas, Cheyennes, and Arapahoes. He shares his personal connections with the land and tribes, recounting his experiences crossing the plains as a youth and living through various conflicts. Howbert emphasizes the lack of documented history regarding the local tribes and their challenges during conflicts with white settlers, particularly focusing on the Battle of Sand Creek. He expresses his intention to provide a detailed account of these historical events to offer future generations a clearer understanding of the tumult faced by the indigenous peoples of the region.