Red Fox James facts for kids
Rev. Red Fox James, also known as Red Fox Skiuhushu, was a Native American leader. People believe he was from the Blackfoot Tribe in Montana. He is famous for riding over 4,000 miles on horseback across many states. He did this to get support for a special day to honor Native Americans.
On December 14, 1915, he brought letters of support from 24 state governments to the White House. This was a big step towards creating a national day for Native Americans.
Red Fox was an important member of the Society of American Indians. He was also the top leader of the Tipi Order of America. He helped start the first Indian Boy Scouts in America. This happened at the United States Indian School in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
By 1920, Red Fox became the Head Chief of the American Indian Tepee Christian Mission. This group worked with the American Christian Missionary Society.
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Red Fox James: A Native American Leader
Rev. Red Fox James was a respected leader and activist. He worked hard to bring attention to Native American rights. He also helped create opportunities for Native American youth.
Starting the First American Indian Boy Scout Troop
In January 1915, Red Fox James made history. He organized the very first American Indian Boy Scout Troop. This troop, called Boy Scout Troop 1, was formed in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. He had first become involved with the Boy Scouts in 1914.
Supporting Women's Right to Vote
Red Fox James believed that women should have the right to vote. He explained his reasons by looking back at Native American traditions. He said that "In the early days, before the white-man came, the Indian women had equal voice in the council, and even was elected chieftain..." This shows his belief in equality.
Speaking at New York City College
On July 4, 1917, Red Fox James gave an important speech. He spoke at the New York City College Stadium. About 25,000 people came to listen, including the US Secretary of War, Newton D. Baker. This event showed how many people were interested in his message.
Honoring Florence Harding
In 1920, Red Fox James, as "Chief" of The Tipi Order of America, gave a special honor to Florence Harding. She was the wife of President Warren G. Harding. He made her an honorary Indian Citizen. He also gave her the Indian name "Snow Bird," which means "Worker."
Key Moments in Red Fox James's Life
- He was born around 1884. His birthplace was the Blood Indian Reserve No. 148 in Alberta, Canada.
- His father was Thomas St. James, and his mother was a Blackfoot Indian woman.
- His cousin, Rev. Black Hawk, who later became his assistant Pastor, was born in 1896.
- In 1914, he lived in Waldheim, Montana. This town later changed its name to Bundy.
- He became a minister in 1915.
- He founded the TeePee Order in 1915.
- In 1918, he started The American Indian Christian Teepee Mission. This mission was on the Yakima Indian Reservation in Washington State.
- He had a son named Dr. Vincent Red Fox James, Jr.
- His exact death date is not known, but it was sometime after 1946.
