Wichita

Indian Warfare Between Texas and Mexico

Barracks of Fort Gibson

In 1836, Major Chouteau explored the region between the Red River and the Colorado River, encountering numerous Comanche, Kiowa, and Kiowa Apache camps during their buffalo migration. Despite initial suspicion, he engaged in discussions with tribal leaders, ultimately facilitating a treaty in May 1837, aimed at peace among the tribes and protection for traders. However, amidst rising tensions due to Mexican influence and Indian warfare, further conflicts loomed, highlighting the precarious nature of relations between the tribes and the encroaching settlers in Texas.

Western Garrison Life

Clermont, Osage Chief

Holland Coffee, a trader at Fort Smith, led a trading expedition into western Indian territories alongside Robert M. French. They set up a trading post near the Red River, at the old Pawnee village, aiming to capitalize on friendly relations established by Colonel Dodge with western tribes. Despite challenges, including unrest among the tribes regarding treaty assurances, a significant conference was held at Fort Gibson in 1835, resulting in the first treaty with western prairie tribes, crucial for U.S. plans to relocate eastern Indians.

Fort Gibson Conference with the Indians, 1834

Catlin Painting a Chief at the Base of the Rocky Mountains

In September 1834, Colonel Dodge convened a significant council at Fort Gibson with chiefs from various tribes, including the Osage, Cherokee, and Kiowa, following earlier negotiations with the Comanche and others. More than 150 representatives attended amidst an atmosphere of curiosity and caution. The conference aimed to solidify peace and arrange future treaties, which were essential for the U.S. expansion into the Southwest. Despite the potential for violence, Dodge successfully navigated tensions, ensuring safe resolutions and presenting gifts to symbolize friendship.

The Osage Massacre

Kiowa Calender

In the summer of 1833, following a treaty council breakdown, Osage warriors attacked a Kiowa village, resulting in a brutal massacre where many women, children, and elderly were killed, and the heads of the victims displayed in brass buckets. Among the captives were two children, Gunpä´ñdamä and Tunkahtohye, later purchased by Colonel Hugh Love for potential diplomatic gains. The ensuing U.S. military expeditions aimed to restore order and negotiate peace, but many faced logistical challenges and poor preparation, resulting in numerous setbacks and casualties.

Peace Attempts with Western Prairie Indians, 1833

General Henry Leavenworth

In 1830, the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek initiated the relocation of the Choctaw Indians to territories between the Canadian and Red rivers. However, the Choctaw faced threats from Comanche, Kiowa, and Wichita tribes, who attacked traders and settlers. In May 1833, Colonel Arbuckle sent a military expedition to protect the traveling Choctaw and assert U.S. power. Despite efforts, the expedition suffered losses, including ranger George B. Abbay, who was captured, and ultimately failed to achieve its objectives, highlighting the challenges of westward expansion.

The Discovery Of This Continent: It’s Results To The Natives

Columbus Landing on Hispaniola

In 1470, Christopher Columbus married Dona Felipa, daughter of a renowned navigator, and settled in Porto Santo, where they shared dreams of discovering lands to the West. Their ambitions fueled Columbus’s determination, leading to his 1492 voyage that resulted in the European discovery of the Americas. However, this event marked the beginning of devastation for native peoples, introducing warfare, disease, and colonization that would decimate their populations and cultures, ultimately transforming their rich, diverse societies into shadows of their former selves.

Treaty of May 15, 1846

On May 15, 1846, a treaty was established at Council Springs, Texas, between U.S. commissioners and various Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Wichita. The agreement recognized the tribes’ allegiance to the United States, granted exclusive trading rights, and outlined procedures for handling prisoners and disputes. Provisions aimed to curb horse theft and ensure mutual protection of property. The tribes pledged to maintain peace and share information regarding threats, highlighting a commitment to diplomacy and cooperation.

Treaty of August 24, 1835

The Treaty of August 24, 1835, established peace and friendship between the United States and the Comanche and Witchetaw nations, alongside other tribal nations like the Cherokee and Osage. Key provisions included mutual forgiveness for past grievances, free passage for U.S. citizens through tribal lands, and permission for tribes to hunt in designated areas. The treaty aimed to foster cooperation, ensuring that any disputes would be resolved amicably. Signatories were promised gifts, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining peaceful relations for future generations.

Wichita Indians

The Wichita Indians, part of the Caddoan linguistic family, were historically located along the Canadian River. Known by various names reflecting their tattoos and connections to other tribes, they gained prominence after Coronado’s visit in 1541. Over time, they faced pressures from hostile tribes, leading to their relocation to present-day Oklahoma. They signed their first treaty with the U.S. in 1835. Today, the Wichita are remembered for their historical significance and the city of Wichita, Kansas, which bears their name.

Houses of the Wichita Tribe

Wichita Indians grass-covered lodge, about 1880

The Wichita Tribe had two types of dwellings: permanent thatched structures and temporary skin-covered tents used during hunting or warfare. Their circular thatched houses were first documented by Europeans in 1541 during Coronado’s expedition, revealing extensive village sites in present-day Kansas. These dwellings featured multiple entrances and a sacred central fireplace, symbolizing connections to the compass points. Constructed from a framework of poles and grass thatch, these structures were functional and aesthetically pleasing, reflecting the tribe’s cultural heritage and architectural skill.

Waco and Wichita Indian Tribe Photo Descriptions

The post provides a description of notable figures from the Waco and Wichita tribes, including Long Soldier and Assadawa, with both front and profile images listed. Additionally, it highlights Buffalo Goad, a prominent chief from the 1872 delegation of Indian Territory leaders, recognized for his exceptional ability and dignity. The inclusion of the profiles emphasizes the importance of these leaders in their respective cultures and histories.

Tawehash Tribe

The Tawehash Indians, part of the Wichita confederacy, settled along the upper Red River by the mid-18th century. Initially known as Taovayas, they encountered various European powers, forming alliances with the French and later facing conflicts with the Spanish due to Apache relations. Following a failed Spanish military campaign in 1759, they fortified their settlements and established a democratic governance system. By the late 18th century, their population was significant, engaging in agriculture and trade, and they maintained distinct cultural practices.

Wichita Tribe

The Wichita Tribe, part of the Caddoan linguistic stock, originally inhabited regions from the middle Arkansas River to the Brazos River in Texas. Known to themselves as Kitikitish, their history can be traced back to Coronado’s expedition in 1541. They were predominantly agricultural, with a rich culture including communal dwellings and ceremonial dances. Following significant population declines due to disease and conflict, the Wichita now reside in Caddo County, Oklahoma, having experienced substantial changes since their early interactions with European explorers and settlers.

Yscanis Tribe

The Yscanis Indians, part of the Wichita confederacy, were distinct from the Asinais despite frequent confusion between the two. Historical accounts indicate they lived in north Texas, engaged in agriculture, and sought missionary assistance in the 18th century. They participated in peace negotiations and were noted by explorers like LaHarpe and Mezières. By the late 18th century, references to the Yscanis decline, suggesting they may have merged with the Tawakoni and later reemerged as the Waco tribe in the 19th century.

Sign Language – Address of Kin Chē-ĕss

Fig. 320

In his farewell address to Rev. A.J. Holt, Kin Che-ess of the Wichitas expressed deep friendship and emotional connection through sign language. He used gestures to signify their bond as brothers, convey love for the Great Father, and communicate his impending departure and mortality. With symbolic movements, he illustrated themes of unity, equality in the afterlife, and the shared human experience, regardless of ethnicity. The address concluded with Kin Che-ess indicating that he would not see Holt again.

Origins of Plains Tribes

The anthropology of the Plains Tribes raises questions about their origins, cultural development, and historical migrations. Although the physical characteristics and languages of these tribes suggest some migration patterns, definitive conclusions remain elusive. Archaeological evidence points to a culture that may have persisted for thousands of years, with unique traits such as the sun dance, horse use, and buffalo reliance likely emerging within the Plains. Notably, cultural diffusion among tribes indicates a shared environment that fostered the exchange of traits, complicating the understanding of their distinct identities.

Indian Tribes of the Southern Plains Region

The Southern Plains Regional Office of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, led by Regional Director Dan Deerinwater and two Deputy Regional Directors, focuses on enhancing cooperation among Federally-recognized tribes in the region. The office engages with various tribal entities while supporting the needs and history of tribes, including the Apache, Caddo, Comanche, and others in both the Anadarko and Concho Agencies. Each tribe is recognized for its distinct heritage and culture, contributing to the rich tapestry of the Southern Plains.