Tagwagane facts for kids
Chief Tagwagané (born around 1780, died around 1850) was an important leader of the Ojibwe people. His name in Ojibwe was Dagwagaane, which means "Two Lodges Meet." He was a sub-chief of the La Pointe Band of the Lake Superior Chippewa. This group lived in the Chequamegon Bay area during the early 1800s.
Tagwagané belonged to the Ajijaak-doodem, also known as the Crane Clan. His village was often found near Bay City Creek, which the Ojibwe called Naadoobiikaag-ziibiwishenh (meaning "creek for collecting water"). This area is now part of Ashland, Wisconsin.
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A Leader of the Ojibwe People
Chief Tagwagané played a role in the history of the Ojibwe people in the Great Lakes region. As a sub-chief, he helped lead his community and make important decisions. His leadership was especially important during a time when Native American tribes were dealing with many changes and treaties with the United States government.
The Crane Clan and Its Meaning
The Crane Clan, or Ajijaak-doodem, was one of the main clans in the Anishinaabe clan system. Each clan had a special role in the community. The Crane Clan was often seen as the voice of the people. Leaders from this clan were known for their strong voices and their ability to speak clearly and wisely. They often helped settle disagreements and spoke for their people in important meetings.
Life in Chequamegon Bay
The Chequamegon Bay area was a significant place for the Ojibwe people. It offered rich resources like fish, game, and wild rice. The Bay City Creek, near Tagwagané's village, was likely a vital source of fresh water and a place for gathering resources. Living by the water was common for many Ojibwe communities, as it provided ways to travel and trade.
The Treaty of La Pointe
In 1842, a major event happened: the signing of the Treaty of La Pointe. This treaty was an agreement between the United States government and several Ojibwe bands, including the La Pointe Band. Treaties like this often involved Native American tribes giving up land in exchange for payments, goods, or other promises.
Chief Tagwagané's Knowledge of History
During the 1842 treaty signing, a priest named Father Chrysostom Verwyst learned something interesting from Chief Tagwagané. According to the Wisconsin Historical Society, Tagwagané told Verwyst about a special copper plate his family used. This plate helped them keep track of time and important events.
Tracing Ancestors with a Copper Plate
Based on the description of this copper plate, a historian named William Whipple Warren made an important discovery. He believed that Chief Tagwagané's family had used this plate to record their history. Warren concluded that Tagwagané's ancestors first arrived in the Chequamegon Bay area around the year 1490. This shows how important oral traditions and family records were for Native American communities in understanding their past.
