Curley Headed Doctor

While initially a proponent of peaceful coexistence with the white settlers in the area, Curley Headed Doctor came to stand for Modoc independence as a means to preserve religious beliefs and traditions.

[1] In response to encroachment by American gold prospectors and ranchers, leaders of his tribe ceded their traditional homelands to settle on a reservation in Oregon, jointly occupied by the Klamath and Yahooskin Band of Snake Indians in 1864.

Reservation life was difficult for the Modoc, due to a neglectful and corrupt Indian agent and continual harassment by the Klamath.

[2] During the Battle of Lost River on November 29, 1872, Curley Headed Doctor led dances to support Modoc warriors.

"[1] Due to his involvement, Curley Headed Doctor was indicted by an Oregon grand jury but not tried.