Wapella, Chief of the Musquakees

- [N. Am. Inds., McKenney & Hall, No. 1] (P.51 Vol.2)

Wapella, whose name signifies the Prince or [the] Chief, is the head man of the Musquakee or Fox tribe. He was one of the delegation led by Keokuk to Washington in 1837 and made a favorable impression by the correctness of his deportment on that occasion. In the council held by the Secretary of War for the purpose of reconciling the Sioux with the Sauks & Foxes, Wapella spoke next after Keokuk and acquitted himself well , [and] although he possessed not the fine form and striking manner of Keokuk, many thought his speech not inferior to that of the principal chief. It was well digested, sensible and pertinent. Having concluded their visit at Washington, the delegates were conducted to several of the principal cities of the Atlantic States where they excited much curiosity, and we are happy to say, were treated with uniform kindness and hospitality. It is said that so great a multitude was never assembled in Boston as on the occasion of the visit of these indians. In the morning from 10:00 to 12:00 the chiefs held a levee at Faneuil Hall for the reception of ladies exclusively, when it might doubtless have been said of the Boston ladies, as a New England poet wrote, long ago, "All longed to see and touch the tawny man." For we are told that this ancient hall was crowded in every part, floor and gallery, by the fair citizens. At noon the Chiefs and Warriors were conducted to the State House where the Governor, the Members of the Leglislature and other dignitaries, were prepared to receive them. Governor Everett made an address to which the Chiefs replied. Keokuk as usual. speaking first, and after him Wapello, a part of whose speech is quoted as follows:-- "I am very happy to meet my friends in the land of my forefathers. When a boy I recollect my grandfather told me of this place, where the white man used to take our fathers by the hand. I am very happy that this land has induced so many white men to come upon it; by that I think they get a living on it, and I am pleased that they content themselves to stay on it." (great applause). When the speaking was completed, the Governor and the Chiefs repared to the balcony of the State House, which overlooks a beautiful and extensive and open square, where presents were distributed to the indians. Keokuk received a splendid sword and a pair of pistols; his son a pretty little rifle. Principal chiefs were presented with costly swords, and others of less value were given to the warriors. Black Hawk was given a sword and pistols. Shawls and calicos and trinkets were given to the the women. "During this ceremony," says one of the Boston editors, "A mass of at least 15 acres of people stood below, filling the streets and common. -

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