It is linked to December 26, 1862.  On this cold day, Mankato became an infamous part of the constant struggles between the Native American population and the United States government.  Thirty-eight Dakota were hung at the site of the Buffalo.  It was the  largest mass execution ever recorded in U.S. history.

What do you think this meant for the Dakota people?  Do you know for years afterward they were afraid to drive through Mankato except at night?

Today, Mankato hosts a large traditional Wacipi Pow Wow, (meaning “to dance”) one weekend annually.  It is an attempt to bring all nations back together again.  

What significance does this park have for Mankato?  For Minnesota?  For the Nation?

Is this a place where you feel safe? 

Look at the bridge that connects Mankato to North Mankato.

In honor of Amos Owen, Norman 
Crooks, and Hereditary Chief Ernest 
Wabasha for their lasting efforts toward  
reconciliation among all peoples.

Grandfather, I come to you this day in 
my humble way to offer my prayers for 
the thirty-eight Dakota who perished in 
Mankato in the year of 1862.

To the West, I pray to the Horse 
Nation, and to the North, I pray to the 
Elk People.

To the East, I pray to the Buffalo 
Nation, and to the South, the Spirit 
People. 

To the Heavens, I pray to the Great 
Spirit and to the Spotted Eagle.  

And Below, I pray to Mother Earth to 
help us in this time of reconciliation.  

Grandfather, I offer these prayers in my 
humble way.

To all my relations.
-Amos Owen,
Prayer in “Water in the Rain”