Knights of the Forest

This was a time when many settlers voiced strong anti-Native American feelings, calling for their removal or extermination. Blue Earth County commissioners sent for "negro bloodhounds" from the South to assist the Knights of the Forest. The Knights of the Forest lodge in Mankato included many of the most prominent and influential people in Blue Earth County, Minnesota. By 1863, the order had grown to the point where other lodges were established and Mankato became the "grand lodge". Mankato—and possibly other lodges as well—went beyond vocal opposition and actually employed members to shoot any Native Americans who wandered outside of their reservation. The Winnebagoes were forcibly removed in 1863 and sent to reservations in Dakota, where hundreds died on the journey and more died when they arrived because of the harsh conditions. == See also ==