The Chippewa Treaty, specifically the 1854 Treaty of La Pointe, was signed by appointed commissioners representing the United States government and the various chiefs and headmen of the Chippewa Indians of Lake Superior and the Mississippi.
Key Signatories of the 1854 Treaty of La Pointe
The 1854 Treaty of La Pointe, formally titled Articles of a treaty made and concluded at La Pointe, in the State of Wisconsin, was a pivotal agreement that involved the cession of significant land areas by the Chippewa Nation to the United States and the establishment of Indian reservations. The treaty was meticulously negotiated and signed by authorized representatives from both sides.
United States Representatives
On behalf of the United States government, two commissioners were tasked with negotiating and finalizing the terms of the treaty. Their signatures legally bound the U.S. to the agreement's provisions.
- Henry C. Gilbert: Served as a commissioner for the United States.
- David B. Herriman: Also acted as a commissioner for the United States.
Chippewa Nations Representatives
The treaty was signed by a collective body of Chippewa Indians of Lake Superior and the Mississippi, represented by their chiefs and headmen. These leaders possessed the authority to speak for and commit their respective bands and communities within the broader Chippewa Nation. While the specific list of every individual chief and headman is extensive within the original treaty document, their collective signatures signified the consent of the Chippewa people.
Examples of prominent Chippewa leaders who signed treaties of this era include Chief Buffalo (Peezhickee), a significant figure of the La Pointe band.
Summary of Signatories
The following table provides a concise overview of the principal parties and their representatives who signed the 1854 Treaty of La Pointe:
| Party | Signatories | Role |
|---|---|---|
| United States Government | Henry C. Gilbert, David B. Herriman | Commissioners appointed to negotiate and sign on behalf of the U.S. |
| Chippewa Indians of Lake Superior and the Mississippi | Their Chiefs and Headmen | Represented the various bands and communities of the Chippewa Nation. |
This treaty, like many others during the 19th century, was instrumental in shaping the geopolitical boundaries and land ownership in the Great Lakes region. For further details on the full text and historical context of this important document, reputable sources like the Library of Congress provide access to the original treaty document.
