Medweganoonind facts for kids

Medweganoonind (meaning "who is heard spoken to") was an important leader of the Ojibwe people. He was a chief of the Ojibwe tribe at Red Lake, Minnesota. He lived a long life, passing away around 1897 or 1898, at about 84 or 91 years old.

Medweganoonind was known as a tall and strong man. People who knew him described him as a very wise and fair leader. He was always true to his friends and showed great patience. He was also unselfish and had excellent judgment. Many believed he had the qualities of a perfect leader.

Chief of the Red Lake Ojibwe

Medweganoonind was the main chief of the Red Lake Band of Ojibwe. He held this important position during a time when the United States government was making new agreements with Native American tribes.

Protecting Tribal Lands

In 1889, the U.S. government wanted to make a new treaty with the Red Lake Ojibwe. This treaty was part of a law called the Nelson Act of 1889. The government wanted to divide tribal lands into smaller, individual plots.

Chief Medweganoonind bravely stood up for his people. He spoke to a special group sent by President Benjamin Harrison. He worked hard to protect the rights of the Red Lake Band. He wanted their reservation at Red Lake to remain the shared property of the tribe. This meant the land would not be divided up among individuals. Thanks to his efforts, the Red Lake reservation stayed as common tribal land.

Legacy of Chief Medweganoonind

Chief Medweganoonind's leadership and dedication are still remembered today. His legacy lives on through places named in his honor.

The Medweganoonind Library

The library at Red Lake Nation College is named the Medweganoonind Library. This college is located on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. Naming the library after him helps keep his memory alive. It reminds students and the community of his important contributions to his people.