The Battlefield
The Battlefield lies approximately three miles east of Baldwin City, Kansas along and south of Highway 56. The exact location and extent of the fighting in the Battle of Black Jack has never been conclusively determined. Some accounts have it taking place mostly on the high prairie in and around ruts left by wagons traveling on the Santa Fe Trail, many of which are still visible today. Other accounts have it taking place in a wooded creek a quarter of a mile to the southwest of the ruts. One of the goals of the Black Jack Battlefield Trust is “To bring about a full historical and archeological survey of the area to establish the extent of the battlefield.”
The high prairie and Santa Fe Trail ruts are on an 18 acre tract of land owned by Douglas County, Kansas. The County also owns a small quarter-acre park to the southwest of the larger tract. The State of Kansas owns a two acre parcel of land between the County’s larger tract and Highway 56. The Trust owns 40 acres to the west and south of the quarter-acre park. The remainder of the land in the area is in private hands. The County’s land has been placed on the Kansas and National Historical Registers and the designations are being extended to include the property owned by the Trust.
This part of northeast Kansas is undergoing rapid growth. The area of the Battlefield is being subjected to increased urbanization. The Battlefield and its historical integrity are in danger from encroaching development. Since the extent of the Battlefield is unknown, critical components of the site could be lost if they are not soon identified and preserved.
Another goal of the Trust is “To bring about the establishment of a battlefield park on the site.” thereby honoring the sacrifices made by our forebears and preserving this important part of our heritage for future generations. The Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park is currently under development with the dedication and opening planned for June 2, 2006, the 150th anniversary of the Battle. As the park develops, we are beginning to accomplish a third goal, “To establish common ground between all interested parties.” Saving the Battlefield is becoming a community-wide effort.