Vernon Ashley facts for kids

Vernon Lewis Ashley (born January 16, 1916 – died November 10, 2015) was a very important Native American leader. He dedicated his life to helping his community and people.

Vernon Lewis Ashley: A Community Leader

Vernon Lewis Ashley was born near the Missouri River. He became the chairman of the Crow Creek Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Being a chairman is like being the main leader or president for the tribe. During his time as chairman, the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe created their first official set of rules, called a constitution. This was a big step for the tribe.

Also, during his leadership, a large lake called Lake Sharpe was created. This project caused some tribal lands to be flooded. After his time as chairman, Vernon Ashley continued to work for Native American communities. He worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, which is a government agency that works with Native American tribes. He also became the very first person to coordinate Indian Affairs for the state of South Dakota. This meant he helped connect the state government with tribal governments.

His Early Life and Service

Vernon Ashley went to the Flandreau Indian School. Later, he served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. This was a very important time in history when many people served their country. After the war, he continued his education. In 1952, he earned his bachelor's degree from Dakota Wesleyan University. Many years later, on July 15, 2015, the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe honored him by making him a chief of the tribe. This showed how much his people respected and valued him.