Mountain Wolf Woman facts for kids

Mountain Wolf Woman, also known as Xéhachiwinga, was an important Native American woman. She was a member of the Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) tribe. Her life story, told in her own words, became one of the first books to share the experiences of a Native American woman. She lived from April 1, 1884, to November 9, 1960.

About Mountain Wolf Woman

Her Early Life

Mountain Wolf Woman was born on April 1, 1884. Her family belonged to the Thunder Clan. This was near a place called Black River Falls, Wisconsin. Her parents were Charles Blowsnake and Lucy Goodvillage.

She grew up following the traditional beliefs of her tribe. Later in her life, she joined the Peyote religion. This is also known as the Native American Church. This happened after she married for the second time.

Her Choices and Family

In her culture, brothers often helped arrange marriages for their sisters. But Mountain Wolf Woman did not like the man her brothers chose for her. She made a brave decision to leave him after her second child was born. Later, she chose her own husband.

Her Important Book

Mountain Wolf Woman's life story became a book. A researcher named Nancy Oestreich Lurie wrote down her words. Another person, Frances Thundercloud Wentz, helped translate them.

When she shared her story, Mountain Wolf Woman had a large family. She had eight children, 39 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Her book, Mountain Wolf Woman, was one of the first full-length autobiographies by a Native American woman. It gave many people a chance to learn about her life and culture.

She passed away at her home in Black River Falls, Wisconsin. She was 76 years old.