35-xx-xx ep03Zebulon Pike

Frontier fighters inspiring chapters of heroism and valor in the winning of the American West. When America concluded the Louisiana Purchase, no one knew precisely where the dividing line

ran between the newly acquired territory and the Spanish provinces. So to avoid a possible boundary dispute, Lieutenant Zebulon Montgomery Pike, ambitious, patriotic, courageous, was ordered into the Southwest to secure definite information. Pikes command was insignificant. It consisted of but 20 men. Two lieutenants, a civilian surgeon, Dr. Johnson, a sergeant, and 16 privates.

Pikes left St. Louis on July 15, 1806. Late that fall, near Red Cloud in Webster County, Nebraska. Sergeant, here, sir. Notice anything peculiar about this trail? Yes, sir. And cabaret on this road. Foot soldiers too. Recent. Military, eh? Yes, sir. Spanish.

Here's a piece of leather one that meant found two miles back. Give it to me. Here, sir. Hmm Sergeant, how many would you judge her in the party about a hundred horse and 400 foot dr. Johnson Yes, lieutenant. There are Spanish troops in this vicinity 500 what you propose to engage them of course drive them out

The 21 Americans against 500 invaders. This is your first assignment to an American army detachment You have much to learn doctor much to learn forward What pike did not meet the invaders, instead gone August 12th.

You there, under that war bomber. What tribe is this? We are Ponies. Who is chief of this village? Me, under bird. Those strange banners of red and gold. When's come they? Persons from Spanish, chief of south.

Thunderbird, this land is now governed by the great white chief of the east. I have so heard. He is my chief. I obey him. You in turn obey me. If I allow you to keep the red and gold gift banners, will you plant my cheap banner of red, white and blue among them?