Apache tribes celebrate 100 years of freedom for war prisoners

Monday, April 8, 2013  

The Mescalero Apache Nation of New Mexico and the Fort Sill Apache Tribe of Oklahoma celebrated the 100th anniversary of the release of their ancestors as prisoners of war.

After being held captive for 27 years, 187 Chiricahua Apache arrived in southern New Mexico on April 4, 1913. Most joined other Apache bands as part of the Mescalero Apache Nation.

“I thank God that we are still alive,” Vice President Sandra Platero, who has Chiricahua ancestors, said at a celebration on Saturday, The Albuquerque Journal reported.

Some Chiricahua Apache stayed in Oklahoma and were released in 1914. They are now part of the Fort Sill Apache Tribe.

Get the Story:
A day for freedom (The Albuquerque Journal 4/7)

Celebration planned for 100 years of of Chiricahua freedom (4/2)