Plains Indian Culture

Fig. 34. The Cheyenne Camp Circle. (Dorsey).

Museum collections cannot illustrate this important phase of culture; but since no comprehensive view of the subject can be had without its consideration, we must give it some space. It is customary to treat of all habits or customs having to do with the family organization, the community, and what we call the state, under the head of social organization. So, in order that the reader may form some general idea of social conditions in this area, we shall review some of the discussed points. Unfortunately, the data for many tribes are meager so that a complete review cannot be … Read more

Iowa Indian Tribe Photo Descriptions

A tribe of Indians of Dakota stock, inhabiting originally the interior of the State of the same name. Marquette in 1673 placed them on his map as the Pa-houtet. Some of the neigh boring Algonkin called them Iowas a name originally applied to a river, and said to mean “the beautiful land” and others Mascoutin or Prairie Nadouessi. In their own tongue their name is Pahucha, meaning u Dusty Nose. “They were famous as great pedestrians, being able to walk twenty-five or thirty leagues a day, and the names of many of their chiefs show that they prided themselves on … Read more

Medicine Bag of my Forefathers

I now fell heir to the great medicine bag of my forefathers, which had belonged to my father. I took it, buried our dead, and returned with my party, sad and sorrowful, to our village, in consequence of the loss of my father. Owing to this misfortune I blacked my face, fasted and prayed to the Great Spirit for five years, during which time I remained in a civil capacity, hunting and fishing. The Osages having again commenced aggressions on our people, and the Great Spirit having taken pity on me, I took a small party and went against them. I … Read more

Watchemonne, Ioway Chief

Watchemonne, The Orator, Third Ioway Chief

Watchemonne, known as The Orator, was the third chief of the Ioway, born around 1786. He gained early experience in hunting and warfare, eventually leading war parties and avenging the death of his brother. His leadership style emphasized the importance of rituals and communal support in warfare. Surrounded by customs and superstitions, he also showed a commitment to peace, often mediating disputes by making presents. A beloved leader, he maintained strong ties with his tribe and honored their traditions, mourning their dead with respect.

Young Mahaskah, Ioway Chief

Young Mahaskah, An Ioway Chief

Young Mahaskah, the son of Chief Mahaskah, assumed leadership after his father’s death, insisting on being chosen by his people. At 24, he prioritized peace and agriculture over warfare, cultivating 16 acres and promoting self-sufficiency among his tribe. Frustrated with government injustices, he traveled to Washington, seeking redress for treaty violations. There, he expressed his grievances and was met with respect and promises of support. Mahaskah’s personal journey revealed his deep connections to his heritage and a strong commitment to justice and peace for his people.

Tahrohon, Ioway Warrior

Tahrohon, An Ioway Warrior

Tahrohon, an Ioway warrior, embarked on daring adventures, including an expedition against the Osages where he distinguished himself by killing an Osage woman in revenge for his family’s murder. He then led a subsequent mission to steal horses, displaying remarkable cunning. Despite initial setbacks, he and a companion succeeded in their theft before encountering their own people during battle. In a fierce confrontation with the Sioux, Tahrohon proved his bravery by slaying an enemy amidst the chaos, reinforcing his reputation as a formidable warrior.

Shauhaunapotinia, Ioway Chief

Shauhaunapotinia, Man who killed three Sioux, An Ioway Chief

Shauhaunapotinia, known as the “Sioux Killer” or “Great Walker,” is an Ioway chief who avenged his companion’s death by killing three Sioux in a swift and bold raid at age 21. After returning home with the scalps, he was honored for his bravery. However, upon encountering white people for the first time, he showed signs of fear and confusion about their customs. This contrast highlights how familiarity with one’s environment influences courage, as he displayed remarkable bravery in battle but was unsettled in unfamiliar surroundings.

Rantchewaime, Ioway Indian

Rantchewaime, Female Flying Pigeon, Wife of Mahaskah, Ioway Indian

Rantchewaime, also known as Female Flying Pigeon, was the wife of Mahaskah and admired for her beauty and generosity. Described as kind and gentle, she dedicated herself to helping those in need, often sharing her last resources. Her strong adherence to spiritual beliefs and rituals reflected her desire for a virtuous life. Rantchewaime’s character inspired her tribe, promoting propriety and moral values. Tragically, her life ended in sorrow, yet her legacy remains a testament to kindness and devotion in Ioway culture.

Neomonni, Fifth Ioway Chief

Neomonni, Fifth Ioway Chief

Neomonni, the Fifth Ioway Chief, reflects on his life marked by early exposure to warfare and hunting. Born around forty years ago during a conflict with the Osages, he initially had a peaceful disposition but was influenced by tribal customs to embrace violence. Throughout his youth, he participated in war parties and achieved notoriety for his exploits, including taking multiple scalps and engaging in horse theft. Neomonni’s actions highlight both his warrior reputation and his generosity to his tribe, embodying the qualities of a great chief.

Notchimine, Ioway Chief

Notchimine

Notchimine, also known as No Heart, is a peace chief of the Ioway tribe residing at Snake Hill, Missouri. His life, narrated through an interpreter in 1837, primarily recounts his war exploits rather than domestic experiences. As a boy, he honed his hunting skills and later engaged in several war parties against rival tribes, displaying a penchant for revenge. Despite past violence, including the killing of captives, he has recently leaned towards peace and established friendly relations with white settlers.

Moanahonga, An Ioway Chief

Moanahonga, Great Walker, An Ioway Brave

Moanahonga, known as Big Neck, was a formidable Ioway chief noted for his strength and endurance in battle and pursuit. Despite his bravery, he faced discrimination due to his obscure lineage, which fueled his ambition for glory. After signing a treaty he later regretted, he became embroiled in conflict with white settlers, leading to a tragic skirmish where he valiantly defended his people. Ultimately, he died fighting a Sioux chief, embodying the relentless spirit and tragic plight of his people against encroachment.

Mahaskah or White Cloud, Ioway Chief

Mahaskah

Mahaskah, or White Cloud, was the chief of the Ioway Indians, son of Mauhawgaw. He avenged his father’s treacherous death by leading his warriors to victory against the Sioux and established himself as a brave leader through numerous battles. Despite his prowess, he ultimately sought peace and signed a treaty with the U.S. government. However, after his eventual death in 1834, his son became chief and avenged him, highlighting the cycle of violence and mourning within the Ioway tribe.

Indian Tribes of the Southern Plains Region

The Regional Director represents the Southern Plains Region in dealing with other governmental entities and tribal entities. The Regional Director serves as the representative for the Director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs with the responsibility to work toward strengthening intergovernmental assistance to all the Federally-recognized tribes under the jurisdiction of the Southern Plains Regional Office. The Southern Plains Region has two (2) Deputy Regional Directors, who work directly under the Regional Director. Dan Deerinwater, Regional Director Southern Plains Regional Office Bureau of Indian Affairs WCD Office Complex P.O. Box 368 Anadarko, OK 73005 Anadarko Agency Bureau of Indian Affairs … Read more

Iowa Indian Bands, Gens and Clans

Many tribes have sub-tribes, bands, gens, clans and phratry.  Often very little information is known or they no longer exist.  We have included them here to provide more information about the tribes. Chedtokhanye (big buffalo bull). A subgens of the Arukhwa, the Buffalo gens of the Iowa. Chedtoyine (young buffalo bull). A subgens of the Arukhwa, the Buffalo gens of the Iowa. Cheghita. An Iowa gens. Its sub gentes are Nachiche, Khrahune, Khrakreye, and Khrapathan. Cheposhkeyine (swelled young buffalo bull). A subgens of the Arukhwa, the Buffalo gens of the Iowa. Cheyinye (buffalo calf). A subgens of the Arukhwa, the … Read more