Comanche Mission Traditional Cache

This cache is located near a church which is over 100 years old and served as a mission church for the Comanches in Indian Territory

The Dutch Reformed Church in America sent missionary Frank Hall Wright to the Ft Sill area in 1895. He had to convince the military authorities to allow him access to the Indian prisoners of war. Dr Wright was not easily discouraged and was able to gain the support of the Army officers in charge of the prisoners.  He spent three days with the Comanches sharing the gospel and seeking to meet their physical needs. At the end of the visit, 12 people were baptized and the Comanche Mission was started.  The original church was constructed in 1905 and the original mission bell is still located at the church.

Dr Wright was also able to bring Christian work to the Apache prisoners of war to include Geronimo. The Comanche Mission Church was organized on 1 May 1907 with 63 charter members. The same day the Ft Sill Apache Mission Church was organized with 55 charter members with Dr Wright’s help. Both churches remain active today but have changed their names from “mission” churches to “reformed” churches.

The Comanche Reformed Church was rebuilt in 1941 using native stone.  Today it is an integrated congregation serving non-Indian persons from the immediate community, the Fort Sill military post as well as individuals and families from the Comanche Nation.