Mary Peters (1852–1921) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mary "Indian Mary" Peters
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| Born | 1852 Josephine County, Oregon, U.S.
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| Died | 1921 Salem, Oregon, U.S.
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| Occupation | ferry operator |
| Children | 5 (13 according to 1910 census) |
Mary Peters (1852–1921) was a brave Umpqua woman. She is famous for running a ferry boat across the Rogue River in Oregon. Her family's land later became a park named after her.
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Life of Mary Peters
Mary Peters was born in 1852 in Josephine County, Oregon. Her father was an Umpqua man known as Umpqua Joe. He belonged to the Grave Creek group of the Umpqua people.
Umpqua Joe's Legacy
Umpqua Joe was known for helping settlers and miners. In 1855, he warned people in the Grants Pass area about a coming attack. After the Rogue River Wars ended, he was allowed to keep his land. This was unusual, as many Native Americans were moved to reservations.
Umpqua Joe ran a ferry on his land. This ferry carried miners and supplies across the Rogue River. It was very important for people traveling in Southern Oregon.
Mary Takes Over the Ferry
Mary Peters, often called "Indian Mary," lived on her father's land. She continued to live there after he passed away in 1886. After his death, Mary wanted to make sure the land stayed in her family.
She applied for a land claim under the Dawes Act. This law was also known as the "Indian Homestead Act." It allowed Native Americans to claim land. Eight years later, Mary received ownership of about 72 acres.
The Smallest Reservation
Mary's land deed was for 25 years. People often called her land the smallest Indian reservation in the United States. This shows how special her situation was.
Mary kept operating her father's ferry business. In 1894, she leased the ferry to William Massie. She then moved to Grants Pass with her two daughters.
Later Life and Passing
In 1920, Mary moved to Salem, Oregon, to be closer to her daughters. She passed away in 1921. Mary Peters is buried in Salem's City View Cemetery.
Mary Peters's Legacy
Mary Peters left an important mark on history. Her story shows the strength and determination of Native American women.
Indian Mary Park
In 1958, the land Mary owned was turned into a park. Josephine County created Indian Mary Park. It was named in her honor. Today, the park is a popular place for people to visit.
Historical Records
The personal papers of Mary Peters and her daughters are kept safe. These papers are at the Siletz Tribal Cultural Collections. They are located in Siletz, Oregon. These documents help us learn more about her life.
See also
