In February 1909, one of America’s most famous Apache leaders, Geronimo, was photographed for the last time.
Shortly after, tragedy struck. On his way home, Geronimo was thrown from his horse and spent the night in the cold. A friend found him the next day, but the exposure had left him gravely ill.
On February 17, 1909, while still imprisoned at Fort Sill, Geronimo died of pneumonia at the age of 79.
According to his nephew, his final words were heavy with sorrow:
“I should never have surrendered. I should have fought until I was the last man alive.”
Geronimo was buried in the Apache Indian Prisoner of War Cemetery at Fort Sill.
He continues to stand as a powerful symbol of resistance, resilience, and the enduring spirit of his people.
