Walam Olum, Tribal Chronicle
The Walam Olum is the sacred chronicle of the Lenape tribe, meaning “painted tally.” First published in 1836 by Constantine Samuel Rafinesque, it purports to be a translation of an ancient Delaware manuscript recorded in pictographs. Despite early skepticism, scholar Daniel Brinton later validated its authenticity as a modern adaptation of traditional narratives. His comprehensive work in 1885 included the pictography, text, and analysis, asserting that the chronicle merits further study as a valuable reflection of Lenape heritage.