On Nov. 15, 1861, eight designated “chiefs” and more than seventy other members of the Potawatomi Nation met with federal agents to sign a treaty that would forever alter their community’s relationship with other Potawatomi and the U.S. government. The 1861 treaty initiated the process for acquiring fee-simple land allotments and U.S. citizenship for almost two-thirds of its members. This …
On February 27, 1861, the Citizen Potawatomi entered into a treaty with the United States that established a new reservation for the Tribe in Indian Territory. Drafted to alleviate pressures the Citizen Potawatomi were facing following the Treaty of 1861 and subsequent allotment of reservation lands in Kansas, the new 1867 treaty stipulated that those who would move south were …
An amendment was made in reference to the third article of the Treaty with the Potawatomi [1861]. The amendment stated that beneficial provisions of the treaty should extend to all adult persons of the tribe, without distinction of sex or status. This was a progressive step forward for the equal rights of female tribal members, as women were now considered …
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Louis Vieux was the son of noted trader Jacques Vieau and his Potawatomi wife, Angelique Roy. As a young boy, Louis worked with his father and brother, Jacques Jr., at their trading posts, developing an early skill for commerce that would lead to success later in life. In 1832, Louis married Shanote, the daughter of a …
Sage and its smoke are used for purification. This medicine is for ceremonies to purify the environment and those in attendance.
Watseka, also known as Watchekee, was the daughter of respected warrior and leader Shabbone and Monashki. Watseka had a reputation for being intelligent and beautiful. Family records indicate she was born during a bright star. Potawatomi often used natural phenomenon to denote time rather than years. After the Potawatomi signed the 1833 Treaty of Chicago, she was among those who …
The rank of warrior among Potawatomi was one of great honor and responsibility. Those who were victorious in battle were given the title of Wédasé, meaning brave or strong hearted. Often, they became members of the village warrior society, defending and policing the community. A rite of passage, warrior training began at an early age. Young boys were taught by …
Sweet grass and its smoke are used for purification and to beget positive energy. It is considered a gift from and the hair of Mother Earth, gathered and braided to pay homage.
15in W x 40in L Loom-beaded central panel worked in bilateral angular arrangements of stylized floriforms. Central pattern is enclosed by zigzag bands and beaded yarn tassels. The bag strap has a similar worked style, over a black velvet and partial-beaded panel of vines and blossoms. Among the Bodéwadmi and other Nishnabé communities, bandolier bags are considered medicine bags. Worn …