Apache warriors, over 200 strong, attacked Tubac sometime in early August 1861 and initiated a siege on one side of the presidio.

A force of 25 militiamen, carrying a Confederate flag and commanded by Captain G. H. Oury, arrived at the town and fought off the final assault.

The Apaches withdrew out of close range but continued to lay siege by stopping the ability of the militia to escape.

Eventually, food and ammunition became short, and the garrison, women and children chose to flee to avoid being completely massacred by the overwhelming Apache warriors.

The Arizonans escaped successfully after another skirmish on the last night, leaving Tubac to be burned by the Natives and plundered by the Mexican bandits.