Recently, Oklahoma native William B. Lees, a former professor at the University of West Florida who spent over 30 years researching the Battle of Honey Springs told about his book Honey Springs, Oklahoma, that aims to tell the full story of a conflict he stated “stands out as one of the most unique in the Civil War.”

Lees explained that the Battle of Honey Springs was unique because it was in Indian Territory and involved white troops, African American soldiers from the 1st Kansas Infantry and Native soldiers from the Five Civilized Tribes.

“Beyond the Civil War issues at hand, there were also tribal and local conflicts,” Lees said.

Nearly 9,000 soldiers battled it out on July 17, 1863, Union forces from Fort Gibson clashed with Confederate troops attempting to gain control of northern Indian Territory. Soldiers included members from Cherokee and Muscogee Nations tribes, as well as troops from Texas and Kansas.

A variety of artifacts, which included cannonballs, artillery and bullet fragments, as well as metal arrows, have been uncovered at the archaeological work site over the years. These items provide perspective into the Native American warriors who had been there long before all the others.

“This is why the Battle of Honey Springs was one of the most culturally diverse battles ever fought during the Civil War,” Honey Springs Site Director Molly Hutchens said. “That’s why it’s so important to educate the public on its historical significance. Lees’ book is available now wherever books are sold.

The Oklahoma Historical Society also has several upcoming events: Sabers and Shotguns: Civil War Cavalry in Indian Territory May 16 at 10:30 a.m.

• The Battle of Honey Springs Memorial July 18 at 10:30 a.m.