Catherine Troeh facts for kids

Catherine Herrold Troeh (born January 5, 1911 – died June 28, 2007) was an amazing American historian, artist, and activist. She worked hard to protect and celebrate Native American rights and culture, especially in the Pacific Northwest. She was a respected elder of the Chinook tribe. She was also a direct descendant of a very important Chinook leader, Comcomly.

Growing Up

Catherine Troeh was born in Ilwaco, Washington, in 1911. She had an identical twin sister named Charlotte. Both sisters studied at St. Vincent's Hospital in Portland, Oregon, around 1933. Catherine later went to the University of Washington. She earned a degree in public health.

Catherine worked as a nurse in several hospitals in Seattle. She also worked for the Seattle Health Department. Later, she even owned her own antique store in Burien, Washington.

Fighting for Rights and Culture

Catherine Troeh was a very active member of the Chinook Indian Tribe. In 1952, she was the only woman to join the new Chinook Tribal Council. She also wrote a newsletter about Native American topics. This newsletter was sent out at least once a month.

Working for Tribal Recognition

Catherine was a strong supporter of her Chinook tribe getting federal recognition. This means the United States government would officially recognize them as a tribe. She also worked closely with the Duwamish tribe in Washington. Just before she passed away, she attended the opening of the Duwamish's new cultural center.

Starting the American Indian Women's Service League

Catherine worked with many important Native American activists. These included her older sister, Betsy Trick, and Pearl Warren. She also worked with Erna Gunther, an anthropology professor from the University of Washington.

Together, these women started an organization in 1958. It was called the American Indian Women's Service League (AIWSL). They created this group because many Native Americans were moving from reservations to big cities. The AIWSL helped these new city residents. They offered advice on cultural differences and new challenges of city life.

The AIWSL later grew into other important Native American organizations. These include the Seattle Indian Health Board and the Seattle Indian Center. Catherine Troeh served on the board of the Seattle Indian Center until she died.

Promoting Native American Culture

Besides her activism, Catherine was a big supporter of Native American culture. She collected many Native American artifacts. She often signed her letters in a special way. She would write "member of the Chinook Tribe Allottee 1865 Quinault reservation." This referred to the 80 acres (32 hectares) of land she received from the U.S. federal government.

Later Years

Catherine Troeh passed away in Burien, Washington, in 2007. She was 96 years old. Her twin sister, Charlotte, and her two children, Charlotte Killien and Arnold, survived her. Her twin sister died three years later in 2010.