Virginia Klinekole facts for kids

Virginia Shanta Klinekole (born June 13, 1924 – died March 13, 2011) was an important leader of the Mescalero Apache people in New Mexico. She made history by becoming the first woman president of the Mescalero Apache Tribe. She also served on the Tribal Council for almost 30 years. Virginia Klinekole was known for being the first elected female leader of a major Native American tribe in the United States. She also worked hard to keep the Apache language alive.

Early Life and Education

Virginia Shanta was born on June 13, 1924. She grew up in a place called Three Rivers, New Mexico. She lived there her whole life. As a child, she went to local schools and also to boarding schools. She was raised in the Roman Catholic faith.

Her Work and Leadership

Virginia Klinekole cared a lot about education for children. She worked as a special helper for the Mescalero Tribe at the Tularosa Public School. Her job was to connect the school with the tribe. She strongly believed that children on the reservation should get a good education.

Protecting the Apache Language

One of her biggest goals was to help save the Apache language. She understood how important it was for her people's culture.

Serving on School Boards

Virginia Klinekole was a member of the Tularosa School Board in the late 1960s. Later, in the 1980s and 1990s, she served on the Mescalero Apache School Board. She also worked on the New Mexico Indian Education Advisory Council in the 1980s.

First Woman Tribal President

In 1959, Virginia Klinekole was elected president of the Mescalero Apache Tribe. This was a huge moment because she was the first woman ever elected to lead any major Native American tribe in the United States.

After her time as president, she continued to serve her community. She was elected many times to be a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribal Council. She worked on the council until 1986. During her time, she helped manage all parts of the reservation.

Awards and Recognition

In 1988, Virginia Klinekole received a special honor. She was given the third annual Governor's Award for Outstanding New Mexican Women. This award recognized her amazing contributions to her state and people.

Family Life

Virginia Shanta married Bruce W. Klinekole. Her husband was a survivor of the Bataan Death March, a very difficult event during World War II.

They had four children together:

• Bruce W. Klinekole II
• Gregg A. Klinekole
• Gina R. Klinekole
• Ruth "Wonzie" Klinekole Tiger

Her granddaughter, Lindsey Shakespeare, is an artist. She creates beautiful beadwork and makes dolls.