At the request of settlers, Colonel George Evans led a military expedition to this site on July 4, 1862. Hence its name "Independence." Indian hostilities ceased and the camp closed. War again broke out in 1865 and the camp was reoccupied as Fort Independence until its abandonment in 1877. This fort made possible the early settlements in the Owens Valley.

California Registered Historical Landmark No. 349

Dedicated June 13, 1981
Slim Princess Chapter No. 395
E Clampus Vitus