 Some of the first European Americans to visit the area were fur trappers led by Peter Skene Ogden in 1827 . In 1841 the United States Exploring Expedition passed through the Rogue Valley . Neither Ogden nor the expedition mentioned the Table Rocks . The gold rush of the early 1850s brought many emigrants to the area , and Table Rock City ( later renamed Jacksonville ) was established several miles south of the rocks . The sudden increase of settlers created conflicts with the Rogue River Indians . These conflicts turned into warfare , and several treaties were signed in an attempt to end the hostilities . In June 1851 , soldiers of the United States Army led by Major Philip Kearny attacked the Takelma near Lower Table Rock , but the Takelma were prepared . One soldier died , and three others were injured . Major Kearny returned with volunteers from Yreka soon after , accompanied by Oregon Territory delegate Joseph Lane . The ensuing Battle of Table Rock lasted 10 days , and 30 Takelma were imprisoned . 
