Battle of the Neches Ceremony

REDLAND � The DeSoto-based American Indian Cultural Society remembered the Battle of the Neches during a weekend ceremony in Van Zandt County�s Redland community. The pivotal battle spurred the wholesale exodus of Native Americans from Texas in 1839. Key event organizer Eagle Douglas says there�s a renewed emphasis on maintaining the land where the battle ended �which the society now owns, and where the ceremony is held each July. �The land needs to be self-sufficient so the history that is here can go on to future generations,� says Douglas. The society�s also working to add some new touches, possibly a library, a visiting center, and a wellness center, according to Douglas. For more information or to learn how you can help, you can contact Douglas at NDN1839@gmail.com or 214-914-1516.