Alfred Leo Smith facts for kids

Alfred Leo Smith (November 6, 1919 – November 19, 2014) was an important leader and activist from the Klamath Nation in Oregon. He worked to help Native American communities, especially by connecting traditional practices with modern support.

Growing Up and Facing Challenges

Alfred Leo Smith was born on November 6, 1919, in Modoc Point, Oregon. He spent his early years near the Williamson River.

When he was seven, Smith began attending various boarding schools. These included Catholic schools and schools run by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. He went to schools in places like Beaverton, Oregon and Stewart Indian School in Nevada. After his schooling, he lived in Portland, Oregon.

Smith served during World War II. He also faced personal hardships, including surviving a serious illness and the deaths of his sister and mother. In 1954, the United States Congress made a decision to end the official recognition of the Klamath Nation. This was a very difficult time for Smith and his community.

Despite these challenges, Smith found a path to a healthier life in 1957. He dedicated himself to helping others. He became very interested in how Native traditions and spiritual practices could help people heal and recover.

Helping His Community

In 1972, the Bureau of Indian Affairs hired Alfred Smith. His job was to help create special support programs for tribal communities across the United States.

That same year, Al Smith started working at Sweathouse Lodge. This lodge was part of the Chicano-Indian Study Center of Oregon. He became a treatment coordinator there. In this role, he combined helpful principles with traditional Native spiritual practices. A key part of his work was using the daily sweat lodge ceremony to support healing.