- [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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