Treaty of January 22, 1855 – Dwamish

On January 22, 1855, the Dwamish and allied tribes signed a treaty with the United States at Point Elliott. This agreement ceded extensive tribal lands in Washington Territory to the U.S. in exchange for $150,000 over several years, reservations for the tribes, and rights to fish and hunt in traditional areas. The treaty also established support for an agricultural and industrial school to benefit the tribes, emphasized the tribes’ dependence on the U.S. government, and included provisions for the prohibition of alcohol within reservations.

Suquamish Indians

The Suquamish Indians, part of the Nisqually branch of the Salishan linguistic family, primarily resided on the west side of Puget Sound. Their chief, Seattle, also led the Duwamish tribe. Key villages included Saktabsh, Suquamish, and various locations on Blakely Island and Liberty Bay. Census records indicated populations of 441 in 1857, 180 in 1909, and 204 in 1910. The name Suquamish is now associated with a town in Kitsap County, Washington.

Suquamish Tribe

The Suquamish Tribe, a Salish group situated on the western side of Puget Sound in Washington, historically claimed territory extending from Appletree Cove to Gig Harbor. Chief Seattle, after whom the city is named, led the tribe along with the Dwamish in 1853. The tribe had a population of 441 in 1857, which decreased to 180 by 1909.