White Loon facts for kids

White Loon (also known as Wawpawwawqua or Wapamangwa) was an important Miami leader. He was born in 1769 and lived until November 22, 1876. White Loon was the son-in-law of another famous Miami leader, Michikinikwa.

He played a key role during Tecumseh's War and the War of 1812. White Loon also fought against United States troops after the 1791 St. Clair's Defeat. He signed the Treaty of Greenville on August 3, 1795, using the name "Wapamangwa." He led warriors at the Battle of Tippecanoe, fighting alongside Wea chief Stone Eater and Potawatomi chief Winamac.

Land Ownership and Treaties

White Loon was recognized as a landowner through an agreement, or treaty, made in 1838 between the Miami people and the United States. This agreement stated he owned a specific piece of land. This land was located near Longlois's creek, within a larger "Ten mile reserve."

Staying in Indiana

White Loon paid taxes on his land. Because of this, he asked to be excused from the 1840 treaty. This treaty forced most of the Miami nation to move to a new area called a reservation in the Kansas Territory.

White Loon first went to Kansas with his people. However, he later returned to Indiana with a few other Miami leaders. The government of Indiana supported White Loon's request to stay. He was allowed to remain in Indiana with his family. The condition was that they would not receive the yearly payments promised by the treaty.

Later Life and Legacy

White Loon lived a very long life. He passed away at the age of 107. His death happened on November 22, 1876, in Roanoke, which is in Huntington County, Indiana. His story shows the challenges and changes faced by Native American leaders during that time.