Wahpekute

Treaty of June 19, 1858 – Mdwekakanton

On June 19, 1858, a treaty was established between the United States and the Mendawakanton and Wahpakoota bands of the Dakota Sioux, led by their chiefs in Washington, D.C. The agreement included provisions for land allotments, financial compensation for ceded territories, and the establishment of regulations governing the reservation. The treaty emphasized the preservation of peace, the management of the bands’ affairs by the U.S. government, and the importance of avoiding intemperance among the tribes. Provisions for military and agricultural improvements were also included.

Treaty of August 5, 1851

On August 5, 1851, a treaty was signed at Mendota between the United States and the Med-ay-wa-kan-toan and Wah-pay-koo-tay bands of Dakota Sioux Indians. It established perpetual peace and friendship while the bands ceded all land rights in Minnesota and Iowa to the U.S. In return, the U.S. agreed to pay $1,410,000 for their relocation and provide funds for education and agriculture. It also enforced laws against alcohol in the ceded territory and included provisions for the protection of the Indians’ rights.

Treaty of November 30, 1836

On November 30, 1836, representatives of the Wahpaakootah, Susseton, and Upper Medawakanton Sioux tribes convened with Lawrence Taliaferro, Indian Agent, to discuss the cession of lands between Missouri and the Missouri River. The tribes, recognizing the land’s unsuitability for Indian habitation and the potential for conflict, willingly relinquished their claims. In return, the U.S. promised to provide goods valued at $550, reinforcing their ongoing relationship. This treaty illustrates the complexities of land negotiations and the tribes’ desire for peaceful coexistence.

Wahpekute Tribe

The Wahpekute, meaning “shooters in the leaves,” are one of the seven divisions of the Dakota, historically linked to the Mdewakanton. First noted by French explorers in the late 17th century, they inhabited regions along the Minnesota River. By the early 19th century, their population was around 150 men, characterized as lawless and nomadic. Difficulties arose within the tribe due to the behavior of their chief, Wamdisapa, leading to a split. They ultimately joined the Mdewakanton on the Santee Reservation in Nebraska.

Plains Indian Culture

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

Museum collections often lack comprehensive representations of Plains Indian social organization, which is complex and varies among tribes. While tribes like the Crow and Blackfoot have distinct political units, they often unite culturally. Clans and gentes play significant roles in regulating marriage, predominantly favoring exogamy. The camp circle, a notable aspect of Plains culture, showcases organized living arrangements. Marriage customs prioritize sister marriages, and child-rearing practices include unique naming ceremonies. Death rituals typically involve scaffolding rather than burial, reflecting deep cultural beliefs about the afterlife.