The Ruins of Fort Craig and the Forgotten Battle of Valverde Ford

[@SpanishEclectic]

This was so interesting! Civil War battles out here in the Southwest are indeed often overlooked. California gold was vital to the war effort. I appreciate how you include the plaques, and photos/views of the various locations within the fort. The 'then and now' comparisons are great. Sorry to hear that your wife's grandmother has passed. This is a nice way to honor her.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, we appreciate it.

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

I used to work in archaeology and historic preservation in New Mexico. I’ve worked on projects in both Fort Craig and Glorieta. I lived in the village of Glorieta in the mid-80s and witnessed an incredible electrical storm while camping at Fort Craig a few years later. Thanks for reviving some great memories for me. And thanks for mentioning the Piro, the Pueblo people who lived along the Río Grande before the Spanish forced them to relocate to El Paso during the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. Their descendants make up the modern Pueblo of Ysleta del Sur, with holdings in and around El Paso today. My condolences for the passing of your wife’s nana. May her memory be a blessing.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thanks for your work in helping to preserve our history!

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

@@SidetrackAdventures My pleasure!

[@brassteeth3355]

Sounds like an amazing experience

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

@@brassteeth3355 It was. I was honored and very lucky to have it.

[@jeffvallentine913]

Condolences on the loss of your grandmother-in-law. May the memories of your times together help to heal your hearts. Thank you for documenting the history of our state, and our country. You just put this place onto my bucket list.

[@charlesglandon7840]

Great video and lesson in our history. Sorry for the loss of your wife's Grandmother may she rest in peace and the family remember her in memories of the good times. Thank you for your videos.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you for watching and for your condolences.

[@michaelleblanc7283]

I'm an old old dog now. Always loved history of all kinds seriously. There once was a time when I looked at old pictures of folks who seemed very dated in time and very distant in reality. Now I look at those 'young' people and am amazed at how familiar looking they are. and how much they physically remind me visually of folks I have known in life. Suspect we all merge given enough time;. Might be due to 'gravity' if you know what I mean. Makes life's unraleving facinating. God bless Mama and all the many like her

[@boomtownrat5106]

Excellent video! I had to think for a brief moment when you mentioned the battle of Valverde Ford. I said to myself huh? Then I remembered, oh, the battle of Valverde! The Union mostly named their battles after the closest body of water and the Confederacy, named after the town or area, ie; Wilson’s Creek/Springfield in MO, Bull Run/Manassas in VA. Of course, there is always exceptions, the battle of Gettysburg being one of them. Anyway, this was excellent, and it brought back memories when I was there close to 30 years ago. I have a passion for the American Civil War, especially the war out west. A very touching remembrance of grandma, who was a fellow traveler.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Yeah, I decided to use the longer name solely because I figured the KZbin bot or whatever would pull up the video foe either search that way haha. I imagine it probably doesn't look much different than it did 30 years ago.

[@boomtownrat5106]

@@SidetrackAdventures No changes at all since the last time I was there. It makes preserving battlefields easier when there is no urban / suburban sprawl to have to deal with encroaching on these historic sites. I was on a CW in the West tour with my family back in ‘94. Visited those sites that you mentioned in your video. I don’t know if you’ve been to Mesilla, New Mexico? It’s a worthwhile visit to see where the Confederate Arizona Territory capitol was located and where nearby Fort Fillmore came to raise the US flag after the Gadsden Purchase was finalized. Love chasing after history!

[@boomtownrat5106]

@@SidetrackAdventures BTW, the only battlefield I haven’t visited in the southwest is Glorieta Pass. I understand most of it is private property. I think if you go to the Pecos national Park visitor center, they have an interpretive display of the battle and I think there may be a van tour you can take of portions of the battlefield that is in national park trust.

[@christianfreedom-seeker2025]

The Confederate (ironically) would name the battles after the local railroad station.

[@boomtownrat5106]

@@christianfreedom-seeker2025 True. Offhand I can think of Manassas and Trevilian Station.

[@armandolopez8983]

Your warmth glows through each video!

[@melchizedek1552]

Attu in Alaska in WWII was also a large land battle in the western United States. My dad fought there. There were several thousand combatants involved with a large Samuri attack. Your video was great!

[@SidetrackAdventures]

My grandfather was there too! It feels like that's another forgotten battle! Hoping to go there some day, but the logistics of it isn't easy.

[@melchizedek1552]

@@SidetrackAdventures I beleive it was the only invasion of our territory in WWII. Yea, just going to Alaska is difficult enough let alone going to the very tip of the Aleutian Chain!

[@jaysmith8347]

@@SidetrackAdventures You might try contacting the Public Affairs office at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage to see if they have any planned commemoration ceremonies on Attu. Your status as a historical blogger might get you a seat on military or charter flights. Otherwise, some birdwatching groups will sometimes charter a plane there to "bag" some rare species, but it would be expensive.

[@ryanm4013]

My great uncle was a NCO at the battle. He never spoke a word about it from what I’m told

[@Strength-in-Union]

💪🏻

[@dcongdon2294]

I really liked the way you did this.I want more.The body passes The Spirit is always with us.

[@VAhistTeach]

My sympathy and prayers for your family. I never knew of this Civil War battle until I first saw Ken Burns' documentary.

[@fishtrout9424]

When I was 8 years old I ask my grandmother about the Civil War. She replied, my father was in a Rebel Cavalry outfit that fought in New Mexico. Thanks for the amazing video.

[@shooter31m]

Condolences for your lose from South Carolina. RIP grandma. Another great and informative video Steve.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, we appreciate it.

[@chuckrann9784]

Thanks for all the videos Steve. Liked the photo of Nana in the tent doorway.

[@CactusAtlas]

Great video! I remember the first time I learned about Civil War battles occurring out here it kind of blew my mind. Just not something emphasized often especially when you see endless photos of eastern battlefields. Shame that place doesn't get more visitors! Hopefully your video helps change that. 👍 And our condolences on your family's loss.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Yeah, I'm the same way. I think the first time I ever heard of any western battles was when I had stopped at Picacho Peak once and I was thinking "why had no one ever told me about this." It really gives a scope of just how far reaching the war was.

[@MrRoughknuckles]

We love you Nana. Amen. We called our Grandmother Nana too, a terrific person , condolences from my family to yours.

[@pamlove421]

I should be embarrassed to say this, but I just checked on Google Maps & I live 33 miles south of here! Driven by the exit many times always thinking I need to check that place out! Thank you so much for sparking the interest to get there sooner rather than later. Shared this with my adventure friends! A lovely video to honor you Nana. RIP 🙏

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Its definitely worth checking out if you are nearby. We drove north on Old Highway 85 after to San Antonio and that drive was really nice through the wildlife refuge too.

[@unzipped4883]

Yeah I live in Truth or Consequences and I haven't taken time to look around either.

[@chuckputnam566]

I, too, love your videos and add my condolences to the list. My ears perked up when I heard the name of Gen. Edward R. S. Canby, as he has a minor place in my family's history. As someone else mentioned in the comments, Gen. Canby was killed during negotiations in the Modoc Indian War (and the only Army General to lose his life in all of the Indian Wars). Gen. Canby was killed by a Modoc chief named Captain Jack (Kintpuash). As the army pursued Captain Jack through the lava fields, my great-grandfather was hired to assist because of his knowledge of the area. We have a written personal eye witness account from my great-grandfather of Captain Jack's eventual capture.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Wow, that's really cool and a neat connection. That must be something to read your great grandfather's account too, not only was he an eyewitness to history, but its your family history.

[@marvinspevack8238]

Mt Putnam, have you ever considered making a copy of your great grandfather’s account available for those outside your family? What a treasure…thanks for sharing.

[@chuckputnam566]

@@marvinspevack8238 If you, or anyone else, is truly interested in my great-grandfather's account of the capture of Captain Jack, it has been published in The Journal of the Shaw Historical Library (volume 1, number 2, Spring 1987). The Shaw Historical Library is located in Klamath Falls, Oregon.

[@ramblerdave1339]

I'm pretty sure Custer was a General, during that time, when he had that skirmish at the end of his life. Am I mistaken?

[@dougbourdo2589]

Very nice video. My wife & I visited this Fort a number of years ago while we were traveling the state working to decide where we wanted to retire to. The historical aspect throughout New Mexico is Amazing. Thank you and condolences to you and your family.

[@timelesstruth1181]

Thank you for the great information, there is so much interesting history available. I hadn’t ever heard this story and enjoyed you bringing it to us! Praying for your family!

[@swanofnutella4734]

Enjoying your videos too. Cheers to Nana. RIP.

[@gregboyden564]

thanks for a great historical video. I learned alot about how this was the site of a Civil War battle. Would love to visit this place

[@SidetrackAdventures]

If you ever find yourself in the area its worth a stop. Hard to imagine 1000s of people fighting there with how peaceful it is now.

[@gregboyden564]

thank you. do want to take a road trip out there from California. visit cousins along the way in Albuqurque!

[@Garydigsit]

so sorry for your loss my friend, love what your doing

[@theducklinghomesteadandgar6639]

I just happened across this channel today and I ABSOLUTELY Love it!!! My Dad loved taking us to historical places like this and he would tell us all about the place and what not! like you have!! You tone and the cadence you carry when you're talking about it!! Job ERY WELL DONE!! My Dad would have been proud for you and what you're doing and from what I can see he really would have liked you!! That is the highest compliment I can give someone, and IMHO It's even better than the most silver colored or gold colored plagues or awards that are sometimes given!!! In fact, I am so impressed I'm going to see if I can help find someone/s who can help raise your following!!! I'm so sorry to hear about Nana. I've sent Love and prayers for an easy crossing for her, she will young again, and healthy, surrounded by SO MUCH love from the LORD, and she will be happy and at piece also surrounded by loved ones who have gone before her! It is absolutely True. Science even proves it.... energy cannot be destroyed it can only change!!! GOD's plan in my opinion!!!

[@dezertraider]

SORRY FOR YOUR FAMILY'S LOSS STEVE.....I DID NOT KNOW ABOUT THIS BATTLE AND I THANK YOU..MAY GOOD MEMORIES CARRY YOU OVER THE SORROW OF YOUR LOSS.. STAY WELL

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, we appreciate it.

[@HGWTPaladin]

Steve, My belated condolences to your wife, you and son. Trying to catch up on past videos and came to this one. As always, great job. Thank you.

[@thegarz1963]

Wow, I never knew about this-thanks for giving it exposure ! Also, please give our condolences to your wife regarding the passing of her grandmother. Take care and safe travels -we love your videos .

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, i will pass it along to her for sure.

[@MrFmiller]

Wow Steve, you produce outstanding history narratives. I not only learn a lot but want to visit many of the sites you cover. You’d have been an excellent history teacher except you would have been constrained to the curriculum being sold to whatever school it would have been in. This venue is so much more enjoyable and you share the information so well. Sorry to hear about your wife’s Grandmother passing. We all follow the same path. Be proud of the fact that she enjoyed your videos with all of us. That’s something special.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, I really appreciate it. My dad's a teacher so I probably get it from him.

[@mtngrammy6953]

I was lucky to have had a college graduate student teach a semester of college when I went back to study history as an adult student in 1976, the year of the Colorado Centennial. I decided it was a good time to take Colorado History. Was I ever right! The regular professor had taken a leave and we had the most exciting lectures ever by the fellow who took over! Best history course I ever took.

[@dougsundseth6904]

Since you were at Ft. Craig, I hope you got a chance to go to Bosque del Apache. This time of year the "Blast Off" is one of the more remarkable things I've seen.

[@paulmcgowan1653]

Took my own side trip to this place one Sunday afternoon recently while temporarily working in El Paso. Surprised by the fact I was the only one there and also very grateful. Truly ignited my imagination and surprised to learn families also lived here with their Soldiers…what a childhood that must have been! Thank you for this video and sorry to hear of the loss of Nana. Just subscribed and looking forward to watching more of your videos!

[@Jake_Official.963]

Steve you never not amazed me with all you're knowledge about you're video's. Thanks. Ed, My condolences for you and your family loss. ❤.

[@patrishs1]

I loved stopping at Fort Craig! Thank you for sharing, and though it's been a while, so sorry for your loss.

[@rrl4245]

Fascinating. Thanks

[@janblake9468]

I visited Fort Craig, and Glorieta Pass, battlefields in 2015. But the westernmost Civil War battle, a "skirmish", was at Picacho Peak, AZ, located between Phoenix and Tucson.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

There was a skirmish west of Picacho at Stanwix (which we just so happen to have a video on). I want to check out Glorietta Pass, but the weather wasn't favorable on this trip.

[@janblake9468]

@@SidetrackAdventures Thanks. I did not know about that incident.

[@truracer20]

A skirmish alone is not a battle.

[@timper4326]

Very informative, thanks for the knowledge.

[@davesaftrains4368]

Well done narrative and photo presentation. I thoroughly enjoy before/after images, this is what it use to look like, you are standing here type scenarios, your composition and photography is excellent. I cannot believe as much as I enjoy civil war and US calvary history I overlooked this site. During army active duty I spent most time at Fort Sill OK and I’m sure you’re aware of its ties to calvary. Our battalion had a major in headquarters who enjoyed researching Indian and civil war history/sites and presented lectures for battalion officers, of course he was pulled deep into Fort Sill lore and history. My battalion was stationed at White Sands proving grounds for approximately 9 months, the outline and several building of our “outpost” can still be viewed on Google maps near Alamogordo NM. I cannot believe I was that close to Fort Craig and so much history that I overlooked it. Thanks for sharing! BTY if it is accessible to the public White Sand Proving Grounds are worth the visit as well as White Sands National Monument.

[@praiserdusty]

That ending while short was beautiful

[@andrewgallup3890]

Been there, we were the only visitors at that time. The Visitor Center was not open so had to piece together the story on our own. Your presentation filled in many missing pieces. Well done and thank you.

[@mineown1861]

I'd read about this battle , now I can finally put a picture to it . Many thanks for the video , it adds color to history we usually only find in black and white. Sorry for your loss .

[@jerroldkazynski5480]

My condolences to you and your family for your loss of beloved Grandma. Fort Churchill, South of Fernley, Nevada, has been restored and includes many museum pieces. A nearby Pre-Civil War home was a Pony Express station in a beautiful and unexpected riparian woodland setting.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

I've been wanting to get up there and check it out.

[@masterwrench4252]

Thanks for the video. My Dad would take us to Civil War sites when I was a kid...50+ years ago. Sorry for your loss

[@roberthiorns7584]

Firstly may I extend my condolences to you and your family for your Grandmother. Extremely interesting my friend. Always taken a Great interest in all things Civil War and learnt something new from your share. Lancer’s eh! Very interesting if you have anything more on the subject would be very keen. Kind regards, Robert 👍.

[@JS-ob4oh]

Thank you for making this very interesting video. And condolences to your family. As a history buff, I'm surprised and a little ashamed that I have never heard of Ft. Craig and the associated Battle of Valverde Ford.

[@1984xlx]

Thank you Steve, for another interesting history lesson!

[@do8717]

Nice job! And I think I recall General Sibley/Dusty Canby, having a cameo in 'The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly'?

[@miguelnavarro2571]

Brother, you truly are a gem. Look forward to all of your videos. Cheers 🥂

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you.

[@marks.schwartz8468]

May your wife's grandmother's memory forever be a blessing !!!

[@MichaelJWhitman]

Very well done My family were early settlers in New Mexico some living in Mesilla at that time I’m from the Lucero family I had never heard the stories about the confederacy God bless your Grandma ❤️

[@marciodossantosmanganelli2542]

Conteúdo histórico que considero fascinante! Excelente! 😊👍🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@scottrhodes6923]

We're sorry for your families loss. 😓❤️🙏 It was beautiful to dedicate this video to your Grandmother ❤️❤️❤️

[@FlawlessWhale]

Love you Nana! Grew up in New Mexico and now back again, loved learning this.

[@eileenirwin2778]

Sorry to hear of your loss. Thank you for sharing another great informative video. Stay safe in your travels and looking forward to the next video. Hugs ❤

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, we appreciate it.

[@petecollins4925]

I've only recently sort of stumbled across your YT channel so forgive me for late comments as I'm playing catch up here. Another fascinating and well researched video and I really like the measured pace of your narration. It's a bit after the event now but condolences for your loss of an obviously much loved relative.

[@stevemergy6087]

Sorry for your loss. Touching tribute.

[@michaelsimonds2632]

Once again, thank you for taking me along virtually on a cool trip. Very sorry for your family's loss.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, we appreciate it.

[@KimHarrold]

Great production. Well done.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you.

[@rkmatt8761]

I never new civil war battles were ever fought this far west! Very educational. I’m sorry for the loss of your Nana.

[@RalphCopley]

Thank you for putting this video out there.

[@paulshelley8132]

Thanks!

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, we really appreciate it!

[@miket4685]

First of all, Our condolences to Nana❤. Love this part of history. I had no idea that battle took place so far towards the west. Love your work - Keep them coming

[@BlitzenSpeaks]

Thanks for the tour. My deepest sympathy for you Grandmother. Another great place to visit in the West is Fort Laramie in Wyoming. It's definitely worth the trip!

[@marccan3267]

Finally a clash that could be considered a real battle in the west, unlike other "battles" that were just small skirmishes.

[@mikekenney8362]

I visited the Valverde site some 50 years ago. It was hard to find, and if there was a visitor center, it was either not open or not there. I remember the plaque and being absolutely alone on the Mesa. I’ve visited scores of Civil War sites over the years. My modus is to read up in advance, find a Ranger and pepper them with questions, go on a tour, then stroll by myself reflectively. At Valverde in 1975 there was only the reflective stroll.

[@colinmcgrathinsydney]

I'm an Australian with some knowledge of the civil war (that didn't come from movies). As a keen lover of history, I greatly appreciated this video. Your grandmother is looking down upon you with deep love and appreciation. Thanks, mate.

[@leonajameson8902]

What a great history lesson. Thank you very much. You and your family have my heartfelt prayers at your loss. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@ramblerdave1339]

Been through Craig, Colorado a few times. Named after the same person, maybe? Haven't heard of this battle, thanks, for the enlightenment. My Grandmother was a teacher, and a world traveler, I guess that's where my dad, and I got our wanderlust. Sorry for your family's loss.

[@jeffmyers7062]

I hope you are handling the loss of nanna well , great video and tribute at the end!

[@charleshaggard4341]

Great video and history lesson. So sorry for your loss.

[@colvinator1611]

Another valuable piece of American history. Thanks a lot. Colin UK 🇬🇧

[@fokkerd3red618]

Great presentation. I didn't know anything about this battle. My condolences to you & wife. May her Grandmother R.I.P

[@airtow6766]

Your choice of music is perfect, and the details about the happenings made the video very enlightening, Great Job!

[@chiron14pl]

I had heard of the Battle of Glorietta Pass, but did not know about this one, thanks for filling in some gaps

[@guykarafa5866]

Sorry for your loss. Amazing camera and story. It’s on my list to visit now. Great job. Afraid I better get their soon , before they shut down the visitor center.

[@mtngrammy6953]

Nice commemoration and nice video. Sorry about Nana's passing. Living in Colorado all my life (75+ years), I've known a lot about the Civil War battles in the west, but had never heard of this one. Thanks for filling in the gaps. I'll have to visit sometime.

[@MrWaalkman]

@6:24 The burning of the wagons happened during the Battle of Glorieta Pass at Johnson's ranch. For more information I highly recommend "The Battle of Glorieta Pass: The Colorado Volunteers in the Civil War" for details on the confederate campaign. And there is also "The Colorado Volunteers, 1862 -- Whitford", which is colorful if not entirely accurate (the book erroneously claims that William Kissane - one of the most hated, and elusive, individuals in the U.S. at the time - had died at Glorieta under the assumed name of Lockridge). Chivington went on to commit the Sand Creek Massacre, pity that he didn't die in New Mexico first.

[@grimdesaye6534]

Sorry for your loss:( Thank you for the info. I have wondered about this for a while and The Battles here Thanks

[@waroftherebellion]

Great Video! I was there for my own video in the summer of 2022. Such an amazing place and the guy in the Visitor Center was so kind and lonely--wanting to chat all day. You should visit Fort Union or Picacho Peak one day. 7:25 Little correction--the structures in the fort were made of rock and adobe bricks since wood was in such short supply in the region. The army used what resources they could easily obtain in the region.

[@TPMKTB]

Thanks for your efforts. I run into your vides from time to time and I always watch them with intrest.

[@chuniquepaceno470]

Thanks, Steve, I really appreciate your research that goes into your videos.

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Glad you like them!

[@chrisminor4132]

Well done Steve! I love the history and your research.

[@secretdaisy6484]

I’m so sorry for your loss but remember how much pleasure and information you bring to so many people including family 💖. Of course I never heard of this place. It looked so formidable that it’s hard to believe there is so little left. Great video as always. 👍☮️🌞❤️

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you, we really appreciate it. As remote as this place is I'm surprised there wasn't a little more too, but you can really notice the wall all around it.

[@brucew.willett8196]

Well done and thank you so much for this information and putting the video together. Great way to honor her memory too. Thank you and I am sorry about your families loss

[@erikrehtlane4890]

Thanks for interesting video. The American Southwest is so amazing and you take us to these little known places. Greetings from Vancouver Canada I used to explore all over the American southwest and this brings back good memories. Sorry for your loss.

[@lorinapetranova2607]

I recollect seeing Ft Craig several times in the early 1980s. This vid is much more informative. None of that historic stuff was around there or damn little. The ending about Nana was nearly tear jerking. Ya'll were blessed with knowing her. Safe n delightful journeys folks.

[@JDSFLA]

Very interesting video. I am one of those who never heard of this fort or battle before. My condolences regarding your wife's grandmother.

[@damianrodarte7727]

I go dove hunting on the old battlefield all the time. That northern tip of the mesa where it meets the river is quite gorgeous over there and I often think of the poor souls that lost their lives in such a enchanting area. Found a couple of things lying around also, pretty cool

[@Wayneh56]

Great video. So sorry for your loss, condolences to you and your family.

[@steveludwig4200]

Thanks..very interesting. So sorry for your grandmothers passing.......She's in heaven smiling down upon you sir.

[@IndridCool54]

Hey Steve! Happy New Year and great explorations in 2023!

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thanks, you too!

[@jamesandrew8839]

Great video and audio. Thank you for doing an Excellent video.

[@JohnDoe-tw8es]

Thanks , love looking at history . Never heard of this battle before

[@sueantoniotti8520]

So sorry for your loss. Thank you again for your wonderful videos. You are putting a lot of miles on your car.

[@johnnytomberlin492]

You did an awesome job. Very informative. Appreciate your efforts!

[@billharm6006]

Very well presented. I had never heard of either the fort or the battle. Now I want to visit a site that I did not know of half an hour ago. Many Thanks!

[@ironman1518.]

Thank you excellent video! Driven by the place but never been there NOW I WILL stop.

[@TheRagjr]

A belated condolences for your lost. Great videos and historical reviews. Good musical background and vocal presentation. 👍💯

[@cmichaelhaugh8517]

That was a fascinating little campaign!

[@MichaelTitera]

So sorry to learn about Nana. My prayers of comfort are with you, your wife, and the rest of the family.

[@michaelfurlano891]

So sorry about your wife’s mom. Godspeed to you all. Thanks for the terrific videos.

[@SakunaSwonaChannel]

Enjoyed watching love history❤

[@SidetrackAdventures]

Thank you!

[@svenswwis436]

Sorry for your loss. You will keep her spirit alive here.😍