By Shawn Gillette

Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site Superintendent Alexa Roberts is inviting the public to join in celebrating the 10^th anniversary of the site’s opening. The park was dedicated on April 28, 2007, to enhance cultural understanding by educating the public about the Sand Creek Massacre. A series of free events is scheduled to mark this milestone in the history of the site.

Thursday, April 27, 5:30 pm – Crow-Luther Cultural Events Center, Eads, CO

“Sand Creek Massacre NHS: A Ten Year Retrospective.” Join a panel of speakers at the Crow-Luther Cultural Events Center in Eads for a discussion of the impacts of the Sand Creek Massacre NHS over the last 10 years. Panelists include representatives of the Office of the Governor, the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, History Colorado, Kiowa County and the National Park Service.

Friday Evening, April 28, 7:00 p.m. – Sand Creek Massacre NHS, Chivington, CO

Join park staff for an evening walking tour that will explore the night march of Colonel John Chivington and 675 troops of 1^st and 3^rd Regiments, Colorado (US) Cavalry, as they marched from Fort Lyon toward “Black Kettle’s Camp” along Big Sandy Creek. Program length is two hours, with a round trip walk of approximately one mile. Participants should bring flashlights. Space is limited for this free evening program. Reservations are required. Call (719) 729-3003 Monday through Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for additional information and reservations. Park gates for the evening program will open at 5:30 pm. Participants should bring flashlights and are encouraged to dress warmly and wear sturdy walking shoes.

Saturday, April 29, 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. – Sand Creek Massacre NHS, Chivington, CO  

Join park staff for one-hour guided walking tours of the Sand Creek Massacre. Ranger staff will provide information and interpretation about events leading up to and during the massacre of over 230 peaceful Cheyenne and Arapaho at their village on the banks of Big Sandy Creek.