The Two Battles of Pyramid Lake

In 1860 the Numu fought to hold their world together, and at first they won. The rush to the Comstock had brought thousands who cut the pinyon groves that fed the Paiute, fouled the rivers, and seized the land. After men at Williams Station seized two Paiute girls, warriors struck back, and a hasty volunteer army marched on Pyramid Lake. On May 12 the Numu ambushed and routed them. On June 2 a larger force returned; the warriors fought a fierce delaying action so their families could escape. Numaga sought peace but defended his people. No treaty ever followed.

What the plaque says

On May 12, 1860, Northern Paiute warriors, fighting to retain their way of life, decisively defeated a volunteer army from Virginia City and nearby settlements. The battle began with a skillful Numu (Paiute) Native American ambush north of Nixon and with the engagement continuing along the plateau on the opposite side of the Truckee River almost to the present site of Wadsworth. On June 2, 1860, a larger force of volunteers and regular U.S. Army troops engaged Numu warriors in battle along the tableland and mountainside. Several hundred warriors, attempting a delaying action to allow their women, children, and elders to escape, fought with such courage and strategy that the attacking forces were held back during the day until the Numu could withdraw. Numu war leader, Numaga (young Winnemucca) desired only peace, but he fought back to defend his people.

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

• Pyramid Lake / Koqyoqe Panunadu — 20 mi
  The Numu's sacred lake at the end of the Truckee—homeland of the cui-ui eaters, site of the 1860 war, and a century-long fight to keep the river that the silver towns dammed from draining it dry

More markers nearby

• Olinghouse — 6.9 mi
• Wadsworth — 8.6 mi
• Derby Diversion Dam — 13 mi
• Junction House — 16 mi