In the fall of 1872, Indian Agent T. B. Odeneal ordered that the Modocs and their leader, Captain Jack, be brought back to the reservation, peaceably if possible and by force if necessary. Captain Jack's refusal began the Modoc War. In early December, about 60 Modoc warriors retreated with their families to the lava formations just south of here. The jagged landscape created a natural fortress where the Modocs withstood two major army assaults. After the army cut off their access to water at Tule Lake, the Modocs were forced from their position in April 1873. The area has since been called Captain Jacks Stronghold.