Gillems Camp is a historic site from the Modoc Indian War of 1872-73 named after Colonel Alvin C. Gillem (pictured right) who commanded the U.S. Army detachment at this camp. This site was once a base for up to 600 men during conflicts with a small group of Modoc Indians who holed themselves up at nearby Lava Beds stronghold (now known as Captain Jack's Stronghold). This site later became a base for Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. All that remains now from either establishment are
Howitzer Circle and
Gillems Cemetery, both from the Modoc War era.
This interpretive sign highlights the different points in history that this area saw human development. The following are excerpts from this sign:
The original shoreline of Tule Lake lies just over the rise in front of you. Modoc Indians and settlers lived along the water's edge for generations. During the Modoc War and the era of the Civilian Conservation Corps, soldiers and enrollees lived here for a short time. Some even died here. Both the Modoc and settlers cherished the resources of Tule Lake, which ultimately created conflict. In the decades after the Modoc War, National Park Service rangers lived and worked where Modoc children once played. Though today's lake is a fraction of its original size, visitors and residents alike continue to be attracted to this oasis in the high desert. To learn more, walk the short guided trail that begins ahead.
Ancient Times to Westward Expansion:
Modoc camps dot the shoreline
1850s:
First white settlers come to Tule Lake area
1873
U.S. Army establishes Gillems Camp during the Modoc War
1908:
Draining of Tule Lake creates fertile farmland for homesteading families
1933:
The Civilian Conservation Corps builds facilities for Lava Beds National Monument
1933 to Today:
The National Park Service provides services to visitors exploring the lava beds
There are also two other informative signs located within a kiosk next to the parking area and I've included them with this waymark since they better illustrate the Modoc War and CCC's role at this site.
There is another website (addition to the link below) that offers a few nice pictures from the Modoc War and CCC of this area here.