Roman Nose

Warrior of the Cheyenne, Roman Nose was the embodiment of everything popular culture has attributed to the plains warriors. Roman Nose rode a spirited, beautiful war pony; he decked himself out in a long trailing war bonnet and bore a rifle into battle. He led many war parties against the settlers crossing along the Oregon Trail. Roman Nose was known for his bold attacks and personal bravery. It is said that his presence alone drove his warriors into a frenzy.

Roman Nose dominated the plains wars from 1860-1868. His death was as remarkable as his life. He attacked a scouting party led by Captain Forsythe. After wounding many of them the scouts took refuge on the small Beecher Island building a wall of trees and digging small rifle pits. Undeterred Roman Nose led mounted attacks across the river in an attempt to dislodge the cavalrymen. He was hot hard on during one of these rushes and pulled to safety by his men where he died.